Basic BMW a fine ride: Entry-level 2-Series coupe has signature handling, looks - nwitimes.com
The 2-Series may be BMW’s entry-level model this year, but don’t let that fool you. It doesn’t drive anything like an entry-level car. Granted, with a starting price of $32,100 — and escalating quickly when you add a few options — it’s hard to argue that it’s a clearance-rack compact car. But it does deliver the driving magic of BMW’s bigger sports coupes in a smaller, lighter, easier-to-handle package. In fact, while it may be weird for a “car guy” to admit this, I actually enjoy driving BMW’s smaller, less powerful cars like the 2-Series even more than its bigger, faster and far more expensive siblings. The 2-Series lets you push the car’s limits without risking an arrest record. Cars like the M3 and M5, as brilliant as they are, simply can’t be enjoyed to the max unless you buy expensive track time or don’t mind spending a few nights in the local sheriff’s hotel. But cars like the 2-Series, and especially the 228i with the entry-level engine like I tested, can be pushed hard enough to make you grin on public roads. I was particularly happy that BMW fitted the test car with its new Track Handling Package ($2,200), which gives you upgraded brakes, an adaptive M suspension, variable steering and wonderfully sticky Michelin. Source: www.nwitimes.com
