Breaking News
Introduction – BMW’s Shift to Front-Wheel Drive
When people think of the BMW 2 Series, they often recall the F22 coupe—a rear-wheel-drive (RWD) sports car with a pure driving experience. However, in 2020, BMW introduced the 2 Series Gran Coupé (F44)—a 4-door sedan based on a front-wheel-drive (FWD) platform instead of the traditional RWD layout of its predecessors.
This change sparked controversy among BMW enthusiasts, but BMW compensated by maintaining its sporty DNA and premium technology, making the F44 a worthy rival to the Mercedes CLA-Class and Audi A3 Sedan.
Let’s dive into the story of the BMW 2 Series F44, a compact sports sedan packed with modern features!
Design – A Fusion of Sporty Coupe & Luxurious Sedan
The BMW 2 Series Gran Coupé (F44) has a completely different design from the F22 coupe, blending sedan practicality with coupe-like styling under the Gran Coupé philosophy.
🔹 Larger kidney grille, paired with sharp LED headlights for a bolder presence.
🔹 4-door design with a sloping roofline, giving it an elegant coupe-like silhouette.
🔹 Sleek LED taillights, adding a sporty and modern touch.
🔹 M235i variant features an aggressive front bumper, diamond-pattern grille, and sporty wheels.
Overall, the F44 embraces a more modern and luxurious look while still maintaining BMW’s sporty identity.
Driving Experience – Elevating Front-Wheel Drive to BMW Standards
The biggest change in the F44 is the switch from rear-wheel drive (RWD) to front-wheel drive (FWD) or xDrive AWD.
🔥 BMW 2 Series F44 engine lineup:
✅ 218i (1.5L, 140 HP, FWD) – Efficient and ideal for urban driving.
✅ 220i (2.0L, 178 HP, FWD) – A balanced choice between power and practicality.
✅ M235i xDrive (2.0L, 306 HP, AWD) – The high-performance version, directly competing with the Mercedes-AMG CLA 35.
Why Did BMW Choose FWD for the F44?
✔️ More interior space, making it more practical for families and daily driving.
✔️ Lower production costs, allowing BMW to compete better in the premium compact segment.
✔️ Lighter weight, improving fuel efficiency and agility.
While FWD doesn’t offer the same driving dynamics as RWD, the xDrive AWD system in the M235i enhances traction and acceleration, making it more suitable for harsh weather conditions and high-speed performance.
BMW M235i xDrive – A Gran Coupé Competing with the Mercedes CLA 35
Although not a pure M2, the M235i xDrive is still a powerful sports sedan, competing against the Mercedes-AMG CLA 35 and Audi S3 Sedan.
🔹 2.0L B48 Turbo engine – 306 HP, 450Nm of torque.
🔹 0-100 km/h in just 4.9 seconds, thanks to its AWD xDrive system.
🔹 8-speed Steptronic automatic transmission, providing faster and smoother shifts.
🔹 M Adaptive suspension & Torsen front limited-slip differential, optimizing grip and handling.
While it lacks the RWD dynamics of the M2, the M235i is still one of the fastest compact Gran Coupés, making it an exciting alternative for those seeking a blend of performance and daily usability.
BMW 2 Series F44 vs. Competitors in the Segment
🔥 Mercedes CLA-Class (C118) – More luxurious but lacks BMW’s engaging driving dynamics.
🔥 Audi A3 Sedan (8Y) – Tech-focused but doesn’t offer the same level of driving excitement.
🔥 Volkswagen Arteon – Another stylish Gran Coupé, but without BMW’s sporty character.
While F44 has faced criticism, it remains one of the top contenders in the compact sports sedan market.
BMW 2 Series F44 Today – A Car for Tech & Style Enthusiasts
Although it no longer features RWD, the BMW 2 Series F44 still appeals to modern drivers who seek luxury, technology, and performance.
✅ More spacious interior with advanced technology.
✅ The M235i xDrive is one of the fastest Gran Coupés in the segment.
✅ Sporty design, ideal for those wanting a compact yet premium sedan.
The F44 may not have the traditional BMW driving feel, but it remains one of the best Gran Coupés available today.
Conclusion – A New Generation of BMW Gran Coupé
The BMW 2 Series Gran Coupé (F44) may not be for RWD purists, but it introduces a fresh approach by combining practicality, style, and performance.
📌 Have you ever driven the BMW 2 Series F44? Share your thoughts on this modern Gran Coupé! 🚗🔥
8
Mar 17, 2025
