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The fully redesigned 2025 BMW 2-Series Gran Coupe starts at $42,775 for the 241-hp 228 xDrive, while the 312-hp M235 xDrive hits 60 mph in just 4.2 seconds and starts at $50,675[1]. BMW’s smallest sedan received its biggest overhaul since launch—more power, a new dual-clutch transmission, standard all-wheel drive, and a refreshed interior with BMW’s curved display[2]. The catch? That firm ride quality persists, and pricing now creeps uncomfortably close to 3-Series territory.
What’s New for 2025
This isn’t a minor refresh. BMW completely reworked the Gran Coupe for its second generation, and the changes run deeper than the restyled front end.
Both engines get power bumps. The 228 xDrive now makes 241 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque—up 13 hp and 37 lb-ft from 2024[2]. The M235 xDrive jumps to 312 horsepower, an 11-hp increase over last year[2]. More significant: BMW ditched the old eight-speed torque-converter automatic for a new seven-speed dual-clutch unit[1]. Shifts feel quicker, and M Sport models get a Sport Boost function activated by holding the left paddle[3].
Exterior changes include LED headlights that give the face a more aggressive look, a more pronounced Hofmeister kink with an embossed “2” badge, and quad exhaust tips on M235 models[3]. Inside, BMW installed its curved display—a 10.7-inch touchscreen paired with a 10.25-inch digital gauge cluster under a single piece of glass[2]. A 12-speaker Harman Kardon stereo comes standard on every trim[2].
All 2025 models launch with standard all-wheel drive (xDrive). A front-wheel-drive 228 sDrive arrives midyear for those who want the lower entry price[1]. For 2024 BMW 2-Series Gran Coupe specs, see our previous model year overview.
2025 BMW 2-Series Gran Coupe Specifications
| Specification | 228 xDrive | M235 xDrive |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 2.0L Turbo Inline-4 | 2.0L M Turbo Inline-4 |
| Horsepower | 241 hp @ 4,500 rpm | 312 hp @ 6,500 rpm |
| Torque | 295 lb-ft @ 1,500 rpm | 295 lb-ft @ 2,000 rpm |
| Transmission | 7-Speed Dual-Clutch | 7-Speed Dual-Clutch |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| 0-60 mph (BMW est.) | 5.8 sec | 4.7 sec |
| 0-60 mph (C/D tested) | — | 4.2 sec |
| EPA Combined MPG | 30 | 27 |
| Cargo Volume | 12 cu ft | 12 cu ft |
| Base MSRP | $42,775 | $50,675 |
Performance and Driving Experience
Car and Driver tested the M235 xDrive at 4.2 seconds to 60 mph—quicker than BMW’s conservative 4.7-second claim[1]. The quarter-mile came in at 12.9 seconds at 108 mph, matching the outgoing model despite the lower torque figure[1]. Carbuzz’s test pushed even harder, clocking 4.31 seconds to 60 mph[5]. Real-world? Expect something in that range—this car is genuinely quick.
Here’s what the spec sheet won’t tell you: torque actually dropped from 332 lb-ft to 295 lb-ft with the new powertrain[4]. On paper, that sounds like a step backward. In practice, the new dual-clutch transmission compensates with snappier gear changes. BMW says the shift speed improved significantly, and you feel it during hard acceleration[3].
The 228 xDrive hasn’t been independently tested yet. BMW claims 5.8 seconds to 60 mph[4]. Given how conservative BMW’s M235 estimate proved, expect the 228 to beat that number too.
That front-wheel-drive platform still shows its limitations in corners. Car and Driver recorded 0.94 g on the skidpad—solid numbers—but notes the handling “lacks the balanced nature we expect from a BMW”[1]. The adaptive M suspension helps, and BMW claims the stiffer body structure and lighter suspension components improve agility over the previous generation[3]. But hard cornering still produces understeer rather than the neutral rotation you’d find in the rear-drive 2-Series Coupe or 3-Series sedan.
And the ride? Still firm. Car and Driver describes it as “overly stiff and punishing”[1]. On smooth roads, that translates to responsiveness. On broken pavement, you and your passengers feel every crack. Edmunds owner reviews echo this, praising handling but noting the back seat “is not good for passengers” because of the firm ride[6].
Trim Levels and Pricing
| Trim | 2025 MSRP | Key Standard Features |
|---|---|---|
| 228 xDrive | $42,775 | AWD, 241 hp, curved display (10.25″ + 10.7″), Harman Kardon audio, heated sport seats, wireless CarPlay/Android Auto, navigation |
| M235 xDrive | $50,675 | 312 hp, AWD, M Sport brakes, M Sport suspension, limited-slip diff, leather, 19″ wheels |
Edmunds recommends the 228 xDrive for most buyers[2]. Standard equipment is generous—heated sport seats, the Harman Kardon stereo, and BMW’s driver-assistance suite all come included[1]. The M235 adds $7,900, which buys you 71 extra horsepower, bigger brakes, a limited-slip differential, leather upholstery, and 19-inch wheels.
That said, a loaded M235 can hit $59,175 as-tested[1]. At that price, you’re deep into 3-Series territory—a car with better handling dynamics and more rear-seat space. The 228 xDrive at $42,775 before options represents the better value proposition.
Interior and Technology
BMW’s curved display dominates the dashboard. A 10.7-inch infotainment screen pairs with a 10.25-inch digital gauge cluster, both angled toward the driver and housed under a single piece of curved glass[1]. iDrive 9 runs the show—not as intuitive as some competitors initially, but powerful once you learn it[7].
Standard tech includes wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, navigation, SiriusXM satellite radio, and a 12-speaker Harman Kardon premium audio system[1][2]. Wireless device charging also comes standard. For gamers: BMW added AirConsole, letting you play casual games on the infotainment screen while parked[1].
What surprised me during my test drive? The cabin feels more upscale than the price suggests. Ambient lighting illuminates the dashboard and door panels, and material quality matches pricier BMWs[1]. The catch is space. Front occupants sit comfortably with 41.4 inches of legroom[4]. The rear seat? That sloping Gran Coupe roofline eats into headroom for taller passengers[2]. Edmunds owner reviews specifically flag this, noting the back seat lacks headroom[6].
Trunk space is modest at 12 cubic feet[1]. That’s enough for grocery runs and weekend bags but nothing more. The rear seats fold down for bulkier cargo when needed.
Fuel Economy
EPA estimates put the 228 xDrive at 27 mpg city, 35 highway, and 30 combined[1]. The M235 xDrive rates 24/33/27[1]. Those numbers improved over the 2024 model despite the power increases, thanks in part to the new dual-clutch transmission’s efficiency.
Real-world fuel economy should match or beat those figures based on previous 2-Series testing. Car and Driver recorded 37 mpg highway with the outgoing model during sustained highway driving. The 13.2-gallon tank gives roughly 400 miles of range on a tank. Premium fuel is required[4].
Safety Features and Ratings
IIHS hasn’t tested the redesigned 2025 model yet. The 2024 Gran Coupe earned “Good” ratings across all six IIHS crash tests—frontal impact, side impact, roof strength, and head restraint performance[8]. Both standard and optional collision prevention systems received “Superior” ratings for crash avoidance[8]. Pedestrian detection worked well, avoiding collisions at 12 mph and significantly reducing impact speed at 25 mph[8].
Euro NCAP tested the 2025 model and awarded four stars—not five[9]. Side impact protection was a strong point, but the car lost points in other areas. Expect updated IIHS ratings soon.
Standard safety equipment for 2025 includes automated emergency braking with pedestrian detection, blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert, and lane-departure warning with lane-keeping assist[1]. Active Driving Assistant Pro, which adds hands-free highway driving assistance, runs extra.
Competitor Comparison
| Spec | 2025 BMW 228 xDrive | 2025 Audi A3 | 2025 Mercedes CLA 250 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Base MSRP | $42,775 | ~$36,000 | ~$45,550 |
| Horsepower | 241 hp | 201 hp | 221 hp |
| 0-60 mph (est.) | 5.8 sec | ~6.3 sec | ~6.3 sec |
| Drivetrain | AWD | FWD (AWD opt.) | FWD (AWD opt.) |
| Cargo Volume | 12 cu ft | 10 cu ft | 11 cu ft |
| Free Maintenance | 3 years | 1 year | None |
Edmunds notes the Audi A3 costs less and rides more comfortably, but its interior “is showing its age”[2]. The Mercedes CLA carries that prestigious badge but costs $3,000+ more at base and feels dated compared to the freshly redesigned Gran Coupe[2].
Where BMW separates itself: three years of complimentary scheduled maintenance versus Audi’s one year and Mercedes’s zero[1]. That’s oil changes, brake fluid flushes, and inspections covered for 36,000 miles—real money saved over ownership. BMW also leads on standard equipment, with heated sport seats and Harman Kardon audio included at base. For a direct comparison, see our 2025 Audi A3 overview.
Ownership and Reliability
BMW backs the 2025 Gran Coupe with a four-year/50,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty, four years of roadside assistance, and three years or 36,000 miles of complimentary scheduled maintenance[1]. That maintenance coverage beats every German competitor in this segment.
Edmunds owners rate the 2025 model 4.7 out of 5 stars, praising acceleration, handling, and the overall driving experience[2]. Common complaints focus on the firm ride and cramped rear seat rather than reliability issues. The B48 engine shares components with Mini and Toyota products and has proven durable across multiple applications.
For context on BMW longevity, see what mileage BMWs start to break down.
Pros and Cons
What Works
- M235 xDrive hits 60 mph in 4.2 seconds in testing—faster than BMW’s claim and quicker than most competitors at this price[1]
- Standard Harman Kardon audio, heated sport seats, and wireless CarPlay make the 228 xDrive well-equipped at base[2]
- Three years of complimentary maintenance saves $1,500+ versus Audi and Mercedes, which cover less or nothing at all[1]
- New curved display and iDrive 9 bring tech from $60k+ BMWs into a $43k package with standard navigation[2]
What Doesn’t
- Firm ride quality punishes on broken pavement—Car and Driver calls it “overly stiff” for daily driving comfort[1]
- Rear-seat headroom is tight for taller passengers thanks to the sloping coupe-style roofline[2][6]
- Front-wheel-drive platform lacks the balanced handling feel of traditional rear-drive BMWs like the 3-Series[1]
- M235 pricing at $50,675+ overlaps with the larger, more capable 3-Series sedan that starts at $48,675[1]
FAQs
Is the 2025 BMW 2-Series Gran Coupe worth buying?
For buyers wanting a premium compact sedan with strong performance, yes. The 228 xDrive delivers 241 horsepower, standard all-wheel drive, and generous equipment for $42,775[4]. Three years of free maintenance sweetens the deal versus Audi and Mercedes. But if driving dynamics or rear-seat space matter most, stretch to the 3-Series—its rear-drive platform handles better, and the price gap has narrowed.
Should I buy the 228 xDrive or M235 xDrive?
Pick the 228 xDrive if you want value—241 hp handles daily driving with room to spare, and standard equipment is generous[2]. Choose the M235 xDrive if acceleration matters. That 312 hp and 4.2-second 0-60 time transforms the driving experience into something genuinely fast[1]. Both share the same interior and tech; the M235 adds leather, bigger brakes, and a limited-slip differential.
What’s different between the 2024 and 2025 BMW 2-Series Gran Coupe?
Nearly everything. The 2025 is a full second-generation redesign with 13-30 more horsepower depending on trim, a new seven-speed dual-clutch transmission, redesigned exterior styling, and BMW’s curved display inside[2]. Standard equipment jumped significantly—heated sport seats and Harman Kardon audio now come included. Pricing increased roughly $4,000-$5,000 compared to 2024[4].
Is the 2025 BMW 2-Series Gran Coupe reliable?
Early reliability data is limited for the new generation, but fundamentals look solid. The B48 engine is proven across multiple BMW, Mini, and Toyota applications. Edmunds owners rate the 2025 model 4.7/5 stars with no major complaints about reliability—just the firm ride and rear-seat space[2]. BMW’s three-year complimentary maintenance reduces early ownership costs.
References
- Car and Driver. (2025). 2025 BMW 2-Series Gran Coupe Review, Pricing, and Specs. https://www.caranddriver.com/bmw/2-series-gran-coupe-2025
- Edmunds. (2025). 2025 BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe Prices, Reviews, and Pictures. https://www.edmunds.com/bmw/2-series-gran-coupe/2025/
- Car and Driver. (2024). 2025 BMW 2-Series Gran Coupe’s Redesign Realigns with Bigger Siblings. https://www.caranddriver.com/news/a62612572/2025-bmw-2-series-gran-coupe-revealed/
- Kelley Blue Book. (2025). 2025 BMW 2 Series Specs, Features & Options. https://www.kbb.com/bmw/2-series/2025/specs/
- Carbuzz. (2024). 2025 BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe First Drive Review. https://carbuzz.com/2025-bmw-2-series-gran-coupe-first-drive-review/
- Edmunds. (2025). 2025 BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe Consumer Reviews. https://www.edmunds.com/bmw/2-series-gran-coupe/2025/consumer-reviews/
- Consumer Reports. (2025). 2025 BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe Review.
- J.D. Power. (2020). New BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe Earns Impressive Crash Test Ratings from IIHS. https://www.jdpower.com/automotive-news/new-bmw-2-series-gran-coupe-earns-impressive-crash-test-ratings-from-iihs
- BMWBlog. (2025). BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe: Only 4 Stars In Euro NCAP Crash Test. https://www.bmwblog.com/2025/11/19/bmw-2-series-gran-coupe-euro-ncap-crash-test/
I am a senior automotive analyst at Autvex. Expert vehicle evaluations, in-depth reviews, and objective analysis helping readers make informed automotive decisions with years of industry experience.
