Where the slightly notchy manual
transmission and weighted clutch could prove tiresome in traffic, they make
sense once the road clears and the M235i is set free. The welcome flexibility
of the six-cylinder is complemented by the euphonic howl from the twin
tailpipes as the revs near (and pass) the 7 000 r/min redline. Shift
efficiently from first to second gear and BMW claims the manual M235i will
reach 100 km/h from standstill in 5.0 seconds. We achieved an excellent 5.40
seconds on our test strip. While the slick eight-speed automatic transmission
option arguably offers a more rounded ownership experience, the manual version
is the one we'd have for the sheer joy it provides.
Black
leather makes for a reserved ambience. Go for no-cost red with blue accents if
you want a racier finish
We recorded a supercar rivaling best time
of just 2.58-seconds (and a 10-stop average of 2.70-seconds) during the 100
km/h to zero braking test.
There's a welcome balance and poise to the
M235i that allows drivers of varying experience levels to confidently explore
its (and their) limits. Toggle between comfort, sport and sport+ (eco pro is
also available) driving modes and, apart from changing the mapping
(sensitivity) of the throttle and steering, the traction control accordingly
allows more leniency. Even with this safety system deactivated, any loss of
traction is timeously communicated through the driver's seat.
Driver's
seat is both widely adjustable and comfortable, if a bit high-set for a coupe
Where the 135i Coupe featured hydraulically
assisted power steering, the M235i moves to an electric, variable sports
system. As with many examples of this modern technology, there's a definite
loss of ultimate feel through the wheel. But, it certainly doesn't detract from
the precision and confidence with which the M Performance-fettled Two turns in
and maintains its line. The fitment of 18-inch Michelin Pilot Sport rubber also
plays a role in that regard.
More
head and legroom back here makes for enough space for average-height adults.
Access is a bit of a squeeze, though
An optional limited slip differential
offered in other markets is not available to South African buyers at this
stage.
Test Summary
Pressures from (financially) important
markets such as China and the US have seen manufacturers blur the lines in
terms of product delivery ... As this issue hits the shelves, we'll be
attending the global launches of the niche-bending X4 SUV and the 4 Series Gran
Coupe.
The
boot is 20 litres bigger than that of the old 1-series coupe. It accommodates big
suitcases with ease
In light of this, it's pertinent that BMW,
with its proud heritage of drivers' cars, continues the development of vehicles
that remain true to the brands' roots. The imminent M4 and its M3 sibling
certainly fall into that category, but while the former is indicated to cost
just under $92,960 and its V8-engined M6 sibling demands a significantly higher
price, the M235i represents a veritable performance bargain in terms of
two-door BMW sportscars.
Not only does it personify everything that's
great about BMW, but if we got the chance to compare the M235i directly against
other headlining performance vehicles in the market, the newcomer from Munich
could prove the best bang-for-buck sportscar of the lot.
