The 2026 BMW 2-Series Gran Coupe starts at $39,600 for the new front-wheel-drive 228, while the 312-hp M235 xDrive hits 60 mph in just 4.4 seconds and starts at $49,500[1][2]. BMW's entry-level sedan returns for 2026 with one significant addition: a value-oriented FWD model that drops the starting price roughly $2,000 below the AWD version. The firm ride quality and cramped rear seat persist, but standard equipment remains generous, and the three-year complimentary maintenance beats every German competitor[1].
BMW made one headline change for 2026: the front-wheel-drive 228 Gran Coupe joins the lineup. The new base model carries the same 241-hp engine and equipment as the 228 xDrive but skips all-wheel drive, dropping the entry price to $39,600[1][3]. Deliveries of the FWD model started in mid-2025[1].
That's the extent of the changes. Everything else carries over from the 2025 redesign—same powertrains, same interior, same tech. The extensive refresh that arrived for 2025 still feels fresh: updated exterior styling, the curved display setup, seven-speed dual-clutch transmission, and power bumps for both engines[4]. For buyers who prioritized all-wheel drive last year, the 228 xDrive at $41,600 and M235 xDrive at $49,500 remain unchanged[2].
If you're comparing to the 2025 BMW 2-Series Gran Coupe, the only real difference is that added front-drive option. Same platform, same equipment levels.
| Specification | 228 (FWD) | 228 xDrive | M235 xDrive |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 2.0L Turbo Inline-4 | 2.0L Turbo Inline-4 | 2.0L M Turbo Inline-4 |
| Horsepower | 241 hp @ 4,500 rpm | 241 hp @ 4,500 rpm | 312 hp @ 6,500 rpm |
| Torque | 295 lb-ft @ 1,500 rpm | 295 lb-ft @ 1,500 rpm | 295 lb-ft @ 2,000 rpm |
| Transmission | 7-Speed Dual-Clutch | 7-Speed Dual-Clutch | 7-Speed Dual-Clutch |
| Drivetrain | FWD | AWD | AWD |
| 0-60 mph (BMW est.) | 6.1 sec | 5.8 sec | 4.7 sec |
| 0-60 mph (Tested) | — | 6.3 sec (CR) | 4.4 sec (MT) |
| EPA Combined MPG | 31 | 30 | 27 |
| Cargo Volume | 12 cu ft | 12 cu ft | 12 cu ft |
| Base MSRP | $39,600 | $41,600 | $49,500 |
[1][2][4][5]
MotorTrend tested the M235 xDrive at 4.4 seconds to 60 mph—faster than BMW's conservative 4.7-second claim[5]. The quarter-mile came in at 13.0 seconds at 107.6 mph. Car and Driver recorded similar results: 4.2 seconds to 60 mph and 12.9 seconds through the quarter[1]. Real-world? This thing is quick.
Consumer Reports tested the 228 xDrive at 6.3 seconds to 60 mph—about a second faster than the previous generation thanks to the new dual-clutch transmission and power increase[4]. They noted "plenty of zippy power" and praised the quick, smooth upshifts. But there's a catch: low-speed power delays and occasional lurching from that dual-clutch can be "quite annoying" in stop-and-go traffic[4].
The M235 brings 60-0 mph braking in just 106 feet—seriously short stopping distances thanks to M Compound brakes and sticky Goodyear Eagle F1 Supersport tires[5]. On the skidpad, both MotorTrend and Car and Driver recorded 0.94 g of lateral grip[1][5]. That matches the Mercedes-AMG CLA35 4Matic, which also pulls 0.94 g and runs identical figure-eight times[5].
Here's what the spec sheet won't tell you: the front-drive platform exposes its roots during aggressive driving. Consumer Reports noted the car felt "a bit out of its element" during sudden swerve maneuvers, exposing those FWD-based dynamics[4]. And Car and Driver describes the ride as "overly stiff and punishing"[1]. On smooth roads, that translates to responsiveness. On broken pavement, you feel every crack. Top Gear's take? "We'd still be more inclined to go for a 3 Series than one of these. It just feels like a better resolved car all-round"[6].
| Trim | 2026 MSRP | Key Standard Features |
|---|---|---|
| 228 | $39,600 | FWD, 241 hp, curved display, Harman Kardon audio, heated sport seats, wireless CarPlay/Android Auto, navigation, adaptive suspension |
| 228 xDrive | $41,600 | AWD, all 228 features |
| M235 xDrive | $49,500 | 312 hp, AWD, M Sport brakes, M Sport suspension, limited-slip diff, leather, 19" wheels |
[1][2][3]
Edmunds recommends the new front-wheel-drive 228 for most buyers[2]. Standard equipment is generous—adaptive suspension, heated sport seats, and the 12-speaker Harman Kardon audio all come included[2]. That $39,600 entry price undercuts the Audi A3's $41,395 base while matching feature content.
The M235 xDrive is tempting but tricky. At $49,500 base, you're approaching 3-Series territory—a car with better handling dynamics, more rear-seat space, and that traditional rear-drive BMW feel. Edmunds puts it bluntly: "if you're spending that much money, you might as well consider getting a base-level 3 Series"[2].
Options? The Technology Package adds $1,750. Premium Package runs $1,600. Active Driving Assistant Pro costs $1,700[3]. A loaded M235 can push past $57,000—well into 3-Series and even 4-Series Gran Coupe territory.
BMW's curved display dominates the cabin. A 10.7-inch infotainment screen pairs with a 10.25-inch digital gauge cluster, both angled toward the driver under a single piece of glass[1]. The iDrive system runs everything—responsive once you learn it, though Consumer Reports found the interface "difficult to learn" and "overwhelming" initially[4].
Standard tech includes wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, navigation, SiriusXM, and a 12-speaker Harman Kardon premium audio system[1]. Wireless device charging comes standard too. For gamers: BMW's AirConsole platform lets you play casual games on the infotainment screen while parked[1].
The front seats are "superb" according to Consumer Reports[4]. Sport seats with integrated head restraints come standard, wrapped in synthetic leather on 228 models and genuine leather on the M235[2]. The catch? That sloping Gran Coupe roofline eats into rear headroom. Edmunds and Consumer Reports both flag this—the back seat "lacks headroom for taller passengers" and works better "for carrying kids and preteens than adults"[2][4].
Cargo space is modest at 12 cubic feet[1]. Enough for grocery runs and weekend bags, nothing more.
EPA estimates put the front-wheel-drive 228 at 27 mpg city, 38 highway, and 31 combined—best in the lineup[1]. The 228 xDrive rates 26/38/30. The M235 xDrive drops to 24/33/27[1].
Consumer Reports recorded 30 mpg overall in their 228 xDrive testing—a 3-mpg improvement over the previous generation[4]. That efficiency gain comes from the new dual-clutch transmission replacing the old torque-converter automatic. Premium fuel required.
Range? The 13.2-gallon tank gives roughly 400-410 miles of highway driving with the 228 models.
IIHS hasn't released specific 2026 crash test results yet, but the platform earned strong ratings previously. The 2024 Gran Coupe received "Good" ratings across all IIHS crash tests and "Superior" ratings for crash avoidance[1]. Euro NCAP awarded the redesigned 2025 model four stars—not five—losing points in certain areas while performing well in side impact protection[7].
Standard safety equipment for 2026 includes automated emergency braking with pedestrian detection, blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert, and lane-departure warning with lane-keeping assist[1][8]. BMW's Active Driving Assistant suite comes standard on all trims. The optional Driving Assistance Professional Package adds hands-free highway driving assistance for $1,700[3].
| Spec | 2026 BMW 228 | 2026 Audi A3 | 2026 Mercedes CLA |
|---|---|---|---|
| Base MSRP | $39,600 | $41,395 | $43,900 |
| Horsepower | 241 hp | 201 hp | 268 hp (EV base) |
| 0-60 mph | 6.1 sec (est.) | ~6.3 sec | 6.6 sec (CLA 250+) |
| Drivetrain | FWD | AWD standard | RWD/AWD (EV only) |
| Cargo Volume | 12 cu ft | 10 cu ft | TBD |
| Free Maintenance | 3 years | 1 year | None |
[1][2][9]
The competitive landscape shifted for 2026. Mercedes completely redesigned the CLA with electric-only powertrains—no more traditional gas engines[9]. That changes the comparison dramatically. The base CLA 250+ makes 268 hp but weighs a staggering 4,530 pounds versus the Gran Coupe's 3,534 pounds[9]. Different animals entirely now.
The 2026 Audi A3 remains the closest competitor. Edmunds notes the A3 "is fun to drive and comfortable" and was updated for 2025 with standard all-wheel drive[2]. The BMW delivers 40 more horsepower and matches it on features. Three years of complimentary maintenance versus Audi's one year tilts the value equation BMW's way.
You might also consider BMW's own X1 and X2 SUVs—similar length, similar price, with the added practicality of a crossover body style[2].
BMW backs the 2026 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—Audi covers one year, Mercedes covers none[1].
Edmunds owners rate the current-generation Gran Coupe 4.7 out of 5 stars[2]. Consumer Reports praises the driving experience but flags the dual-clutch transmission's low-speed behavior as a persistent annoyance[4]. The B48 engine has proven durable across multiple BMW, Mini, and Toyota applications. For context on BMW longevity, see what mileage BMWs start to break down.
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