BMW 2 Series 2024 review
Photo: Dinkun Chen (CC BY-SA 4.0), via Wikimedia Commons
Overview
The 2024 BMW 2 Series is the entry ticket to the brand's coupe world without the badge tax of the bigger models. The 2.0-litre turbo petrol pulls keenly, the eight-speed automatic shifts almost invisibly, and the chassis keeps the planted, balanced feel that built BMW's reputation. Inside it is a proper premium cabin, with good materials and the intuitive iDrive system. The 430-litre boot is genuinely useful for a coupe, and rear seats work for adults on shorter trips. Running costs are the obvious caveat: insurance, servicing and tyres all cost more than a mainstream hatchback. But for buyers who want everyday usability with a proper coupe shape, the 2 Series remains one of the most complete cars in the class.
The 2 Series Coupe is BMW at its most traditional: a compact, rear-wheel-drive two-door with near-perfect weight distribution. In a market full of front-driven coupes it feels special — the steering is sweet and communicative, the chassis is playful yet secure, and the strong, smooth engines suit its character perfectly. This is the driver's BMW.
From £34,000 it undercuts larger coupes while delivering most of the fun. Practicality is the compromise: the rear seats are occasional-use and the boot is modest, so think of it as a 2+2. Running costs are typical BMW — servicing is reasonable, but tyres and insurance cost more than a hot hatch. For keen drivers, it is the sweet spot of the range.
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UK price from: £34,000
Specifications
| Engine | 2.0 turbo petrol |
| Power | ~170hp |
| 0-60 mph | ~7.1s |
| Transmission | 8-speed automatic |
| Fuel type | Petrol |
| Fuel economy | ~45mpg combined |
| CO2 emissions | ~141g/km |
| Seats | 5 |
| Boot space | 430L |
| Insurance group | 27 |
Features
- Key features: 2.0-litre TwinPower turbo petrol; Eight-speed Steptronic automatic; BMW iDrive with large display; M Sport styling; Adaptive LED headlights; Cruise control with braking; Rear parking sensors; Dual-zone climate control
Common parts & prices
| Part | Price (GBP) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Front brake pads | £54.99 | OEM-spec pads for 2.0 models |
| Front brake discs | £89.99 | Replace in pairs; check sensors too |
| Oil filter | £12.99 | Service every 10k miles or yearly |
| Cabin pollen filter | £17.99 | Carbon type keeps air clean |
| Spark plugs (set of 4) | £39.99 | Iridium; change around 40k miles |
| Battery (AGM) | £139.99 | Needs coding to the car after fitting |
Pros
- Strong coupe looks. Punchy turbo engine. Genuine practicality for the class. Classy, well-built cabin.
Cons
- Rear headroom is limited. Firm ride on big wheels. Premium running costs.