Are you looking for an elegant, sporty, four-door coupé in the upper compact class? Then read on, because the new BMW M235 Gran Coupé could be just right for you.
BMW describes the design of the extensively revised all-wheel drive model for 2025 as having an expressive front end. This is characterised by optional Matrix LED headlights with anti-glare function and the attractive radiator grille, as well as the openings for the air intakes below. The modified roof line extends in a coupé-style to the rear, which appears significantly sportier than its predecessor. The body has been lengthened by 20 mm to 4546 mm, the wheelbase measures 2670 mm and the width is 1800 mm.
The red marking at the top of the steering wheel and the contrasting stitching in the cockpit give the interior a sporty touch. As the driver, you now have a view of the BMW Curved Display. The most important functions are operated via ‘QuickSelect’, eliminating the need to search in submenus. All interactions can be carried out via voice control or touchscreen. When you take your seat on the vegan seats – leather has been deliberately avoided for sustainability reasons – you have plenty of space in the front. However, the rear seats are significantly more cramped, both in terms of knee room and headroom, which is limited as is usual in coupés. Tall people should definitely try out the rear seats before buying. The boot capacity is 430 litres.
The engine is a 2-litre 4-cylinder with a maximum output of 300 hp at 5,750–6,500 rpm and torque of 400 Nm at 2,000–4,500 rpm.
The acceleration figures are impressive, with 0 to 100 km/h taking just 4.9 seconds. As maximum power is available even at low revs, the engine delivers sufficient pressure across the entire speed range. Fuel consumption is around 7 L/100 km when driving calmly, while up to 11 L/100 km can be consumed when driving briskly. The 7-speed dual-clutch transmission shifts in an instant at the command of the shift paddles behind the steering wheel.
The combination of reinforcements in the frame and body, modified suspension elements and new shock absorbers give the M235 Gran Coupé improved steering response and greater steering precision. BMW engineers have also optimised straight-line stability by adjusting the wheel geometry. For sporty drivers, we recommend the optional M Technical Pack, which was fitted to our test car. For an additional charge, the upgrade includes reinforced brakes, an adaptive suspension and sports steering. The Gran Tourer feels very comfortable when driving quickly and smoothly. If you increase the pace again, the cornering radius widens slightly without the coupé immediately understeering or oversteering. Thanks to the four-wheel drive, traction when accelerating out of corners is very efficient.
Prices start at £57,968 with the correct standard equipment. However, the various options can quickly push up the price, as our test model at £72,805 proves. In return, the BMW M235 Gran Coupé offers a certain elegance combined with a touch of sportiness.
Technical data:
Number of cylinders: 4
Displacement: 1,998 cm3
Engine power: 221 kW/300 hp
Torque: 400 Nm
Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h: 4.9 seconds
Top speed: 250 km/h
Transmission: 7-speed Steptronic
CO2 emissions (WLTP): 180 g/km
Fuel consumption (WLTP): 7.9 L/100km
Tank capacity: 49 L
Boot capacity: 430 L
Unser Urteil:
+ Design
+ Driving dynamics
+ Perceived quality
– Space in the rear seats
– Price (options)