2017 BMW M240 Pros vs Cons. Should You Buy?
What’s New for 2017
2017 brings exciting changes for the top-trim BMW 2 Series; namely a switch from the M235 model designation to M240. With the name change comes a significant bump in horsepower (320-hp to 335-hp). Tweaks have also been made to the 8-speed automatic transmission to improve fuel efficiency. The end result is a 2 series that is able to accelerate more quickly and efficiently than ever before.
Top 10 Reasons to Buy a 2017 BMW M240 – The Pros
1. Undeniable Performance
The clear show-stopper of the M240 is its blistering performance. Capable of accelerating from 0-60 mph in as little as 4.2 seconds, braking from 70-0 mph in 155 feet, and holding .94 g on the skid pad, the M240 is sure to feel just as at home on the track as it does on the street.
2. Available All-Wheel Drive
Those living in winter climates will be delighted to learn that the BMW M240 is available with all-wheel drive as an option. Named the M240xi, BMW has incorporated its renowned xDrive system into the powerful 2-series coupe. The advanced system ensures the vehicle has the best possible traction at all times by sending power in variable amounts to the front and rear wheels.
3. M sport Interior Appointments
Included with the 2017 BMW M240 is an array of M Sport interior appointments. The centerpiece of this package is the thick, leather-wrapped M Sport steering wheel. With a look and feel that is straight out of the more expensive M2, M240 drivers are sure to appreciate its undeniably sporting appeal. Also included with the package are unique M Sport door sills, driver footrest, and driver knee pad.
4. Multiple Transmission Options
Sports car enthusiasts will appreciate the fact that the 2017 BMW M240 is available with a choice of transmissions including the celebrated ZF-8 speed automatic as well as a more traditional 6-speed manual transmission. The automatic comes standard with wheel-mounted paddle shifters which allow precise control of the M240 while the 6-speed manual has a cutting-edge rev-matching feature, making downshifting completely seamless.
5. BMW iDrive Infotainment
BMW’s tradition of creating class-leading infotainment systems continues with the M240. With the original iDrive system, BMW pioneered the incorporation of vital vehicle functions into a central, digital unit. After years of refinement, the latest iDrive system from BMW is extremely easy-to-use and provides drivers and passengers with a vast amount if information pertaining to the vehicle as well as displaying real-time traffic, weather, and navigation data.
6. Harman Kardon Sound System
Working hand-in-glove with BMW’s iDrive system is the 2017 BMW M240’s optional Harman Kardon high-fidelity sound system. With 12 individual speakers linked to a 360-watt amplifier, music has never sounded better. The system boasts an impressive dynamic range with 5 tweeters projecting high-frequency sounds accompanied by 5 midrange speakers and 2 bass modules mounted under the passenger and driver seats.
7. Keyless Entry and Start
2017 BMW M240 owners are able to lock, unlock, and start the vehicle without ever taking the key out of their pocket. With the key in close proximity, small sensors on each door handle are able to detect a hand’s touch and will unlock the vehicle as the handle is being pulled. Once inside, the simple press of a button brings the car to life using the same proximity technology as the door handles. Lastly, the M240 can be locked with a simple finger press on top of either door handle.
8. Luxurious Leather Seating
The highly-configurable 2017 BMW M240 is available in a multitude of leather and leatherette options. More discerning buyers are likely to opt for one of the four existing genuine leather options. Available colors include the gorgeous brown Terra Dakota Leather, sporty Coral Red Dakota Leather, modern Oyster Dakota Leather, or the classic Black Dakota Leather.
9. Heated Seats and Steering Wheel
The 2017 BMW M240 is always prepared for cold days with its available cold weather package. Buyers in northern climates are sure to appreciate the comfort of heated seats with three power levels accompanying a heated steering wheel that keeps hands comfortable. Include with the package is a set of headlight washers that ensure the road ahead stays visible.
10. Ultimate in Safety
Opting for the Driving Assistance and Driving Assistance Plus packages equips the 2017 BMW 240i with an array of cameras and sensors that keep hazards at bay. Park distance control and rear camera systems ensure that objects are not hit while in reverse. Active Driving Assistant is comprised of four safety features working together to prevent undesired lane departure, mitigate collisions, and alert drivers to the presence of pedestrians near the vehicle.
Reasons Not to Buy a 2017 BMW M240 – The Cons
1. Limited Passenger Space
Available only as a two-door coupe, the BMW M240 may not be a wise choice for those wishing to frequently transport passengers and/or cargo. Access to rear seats is a hassle and rear headroom is limited, especially for tall passengers.
2. Expensive Options
Although the M240 has a base MSRP of $44,450, actual price tends to increase rapidly with the inclusion of popular packages and options. Fully-equipped M240 models may cost as much as $60,000 or more.
3. Premium Fuel Required
Due to the high-performance nature of the M240’s turbocharged inline-six engine, the vehicle requires premium fuel. Typically, this will result in a significant increase in fuel costs over the lifetime of the car. Buyers looking to save at the pump may look elsewhere.
How it stacks up to the competition:
The 2017 BMW M240i faces some segment competition from vehicles like the Mercedes-Benz CLA-45 AMG and the Audi S3. Buyers looking for greater value may even cross-shop vehicles such as the Ford Focus RS, Volkswagen Golf R, and Subaru WRX STI against the more expensive BMW. The M240 is uniquely positioned however due to several facts: First, the competitors from Mercedes-Benz and Audi are not available in a two-door coupe style. Additionally, neither German competitor comes available with a manual transmission (a deal-breaker for many enthusiasts). Vehicles like the Focus RS, Golf R, and WRX STI may undercut the BMW in price, however they lack many of the luxury features and overall quality of the M240.
Conclusion
The 2017 BMW M240i is a shining example of what enthusiasts look for in a performance-oriented two-door coupe. 335 hp and 359 lb-ft of torque propel the dynamic coupe to blistering speeds while 50/50 weight distribution makes handling a breeze. Not only is it extremely capable, the M240 impresses with its vast luxury and safety features. With substantial upgrades for the 2017 model year, there may not be a better time to be shopping for a BMW M240.
