Today marked my first opportunity to truly test drive the new BMW M240i on the winding roads surrounding Zurich, and the experience left me genuinely impressed. In an era dominated by digital interfaces and autonomous driving aids, and particularly after my recent drive in the new Audi RS3, I admittedly held somewhat tempered expectations, anticipating a detached and sterile driving sensation. Thankfully, my preconceptions were completely overturned. It’s crucial to understand the car’s positioning; despite the subtle M badging, this isn’t a full-fledged M car, nor does it aspire to be. The benchmark here is the previous F22 generation M240i, not the M2 or M2 Competition. And, importantly, it’s 2022 – a point worth noting for those yearning for a bygone automotive era.
Styling is inherently subjective, and personal preferences rightly vary, rendering extensive discussion somewhat futile. However, I will state that the car possesses a far more compelling presence in person than photographs suggest. Having seen it in both black and Brooklyn Grey, I found both iterations genuinely appealing. It demands to be seen firsthand to be truly appreciated, as it is not a particularly photogenic vehicle, much like the G8x series. Furthermore, the wider wheels with their assertive offset significantly enhance its road stance, a welcome departure from the somewhat anemic wheel fitment of the preceding F2x generation.
The interior layout will feel familiar to anyone acquainted with the current BMW G2x models, sharing a similar design language, albeit with less opulent door panel materials. Yet, unlike its F2x predecessor, the cabin doesn’t evoke a sense of a ‘lesser’ 3 Series. Instead, it projects a more premium ambiance, and the M sport seats are undeniably striking. While I personally remain unconvinced by digital instrument clusters – and this particular implementation isn’t among the most aesthetically pleasing – it’s a feature I can certainly live with. My expertise doesn’t lie in in-depth evaluations of infotainment systems, audio quality, driver assistance technologies, or advanced lighting configurations, so I’ll defer those aspects to more qualified reviewers.
What truly captivated me was the driving experience – a quality that feels increasingly rare, perhaps even unique, within this contemporary segment. The sensation of direct driver engagement is palpable; you are undeniably in control, rather than feeling like a passenger being managed by the vehicle’s electronics (a stark contrast to the RS3…). It offers arguably the most ‘analog’ driving feel available for the money in today’s market. Again, it’s essential to remember that we’re in 2022, where the vast majority of vehicles are heavily reliant on computer-mediated driving dynamics. This analog feel contributes significantly to the car’s overall driver reliability, ensuring a consistent and predictable experience behind the wheel.
The chassis, despite the car’s inherent weight and all-wheel-drive configuration, exhibits exceptional balance. Turn-in is remarkably crisp and responsive, even at moderate to higher speeds, providing ample feedback about the tire-road interface. Lateral grip is immense, representing a substantial advancement over the previous M240i. While not a lightweight car, it effectively masks its mass, feeling surprisingly agile. It might encounter limitations on a dedicated racetrack, but that’s not its intended domain. This chassis balance and responsiveness contribute to the feeling of mechanical reliability – you can trust the car to react predictably to your inputs.
In Comfort mode, both the suspension and steering exhibit a softer, more relaxed character, well-suited for urban driving. However, for spirited driving, Sport or Sport+ modes are preferable. While Sport+ mode’s throttle response felt slightly too aggressive and the gearbox a touch abrupt for my taste, the suspension firms up noticeably without becoming harsh. It’s worth noting that the roads in the Zurich area are exceptionally smooth. The car never feels overtly nervous, though the suspension response could occasionally feel slightly sharp, potentially attributable to the test car’s tires being overinflated (wearing 245/255 profile Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires, incidentally). This compliant yet responsive suspension enhances the car’s reliability in varied driving conditions.
Straight-line traction is abundant, but the rear-biased xDrive all-wheel-drive system’s character is clearly discernible. While outright rear tire smoking antics are not on the cards in dry conditions like a purely rear-wheel-drive car, playful moments are certainly achievable, particularly in wet conditions. The overall driving feel leans closer to rear-wheel drive than all-wheel drive, and the torque transfer from rear to front axles is remarkably predictable and finely tuned. (The RS3, in this regard, presents a markedly different experience, warranting a separate discussion.) This predictable handling enhances driver confidence and the sense of reliable performance.
The steering system stands out as BMW’s finest iteration of Electric Power Steering (EPS) in a non-M car to date. While a trace of artificial feedback remains, the improvement over the previous F2x generation is nothing short of transformative. The absence of unwanted steering interaction from the front axle is also highly appreciated; you’d never suspect you were piloting an all-wheel-drive vehicle through the steering feel alone (again, in stark contrast to the RS3…). This refined steering feel is crucial for driver confidence and the perception of reliable handling.
The ZF 8-speed automatic transmission continues to impress with its brilliance. Its calibration in this M240i application is near-perfect. It delivers seamless shifts in Comfort mode and lightning-fast responses in Sport and Sport+ modes. While it may not possess the ultimate crispness of a dual-clutch transmission (DCT), particularly in automatic mode, it’s difficult to fault in a car of this nature, unless you are an unwavering manual gearbox purist. Regrettably, a manual option is not offered. The ZF8’s consistent performance and smooth operation contribute to the car’s overall reliability and ease of driving.
The B58 engine, as anticipated, is a powerhouse. Ample power is readily available from 2000 rpm all the way to nearly 7000 rpm, exhibiting only a minor degree of turbo lag, less pronounced than in the RS3 (though the RS3 is undeniably quicker overall). Power delivery is assertive yet refined, whereas the Audi’s five-cylinder engine exudes a more aggressive and visceral character. The B58 engine’s reputation for reliability is well-deserved, and its smooth, consistent power delivery further enhances the M240i’s dependable performance.
Despite the presence of an Otto Particulate Filter (OPF), the exhaust note is surprisingly robust from the exterior (louder than my previous M2 Competition!). However, it’s considerably more subdued within the cabin, likely due to effective sound insulation. The synthesized engine noise enhances the interior ambiance and sounds less artificial than in older F-series BMWs. For those who, like myself, prefer a more natural sound profile, this artificial enhancement can be dialed back, though the cabin then becomes notably quiet. While the active sound design is subjective, the underlying engine’s robust performance and inherent reliability are undeniable.
Drawing direct comparisons to my previous M cars would be unproductive, as they occupy different segments and serve distinct purposes. However, the progress relative to the preceding M240i is monumental. Undeniably, the older M2 offered a more overtly playful driving experience. In summary, the new M240i is a true gem. Considering it’s not a full-fledged M car, it delivered an exceptionally enjoyable experience, far exceeding my expectations in this era of increasingly digital and detached automobiles. It stands out as the finest non-M BMW I’ve driven. Given the brilliance of the current G82 M4 and the exceptional S58 engine, the potential of the upcoming G87 M2 is truly exciting to contemplate. However, having seen the new iDrive 8 system with its expansive single-pane display in the new 2 Series MPV at the dealership (the model name escapes me at the moment), I must confess it feels somewhat out of place in a sports car, at least to my personal taste. Ultimately, the 2022 BMW M240i offers a compelling blend of performance, driver engagement, and inherent BMW reliability, making it a standout choice in its class.
