Found your channel yesterday and man…it’s refreshing to see such a great way of reviewing cars. Definitely like this style more than other car reviewers. Keep up the great work.
I’m absolutely in love with the 2 Series. I love that BMW put a straight 6 under the bonnet but still offers great 4 cylinders options that don’t feel underpowered. BMW’s 4 cylinders engines can please car enthusiasts looking for a daily driver they can enjoy on the road. Anyway, BMW makes in my opinion the best interiors. I think I prefer this interior to the 2021-2022 remodel introduced in the I4, Ix and recently on the 3 Series. A car is not an Ipad and screens are very often disturbing. Thanks to the Topher for making us, viewers, feel like we are with him in the car going for a ride, with those beautiful Michigan sunsets ❤️❤️
Wife has a 330i, and to be honest that four-cylinder is great. We have averaged just over 30 MPG over our one year with the car. Even in city driving it gets close to 30 MPG. Not only that, but it is a nice torquey engine that never feels stressed. Though I do wish we had the six for its sound, objectively the four-cylinder is impressive.
Hate to break it to you, but starting production 7/2022, the 2 coupe gets the Curved Display from the i4 as standard. You can already see it on the configurator on BMW’s website.
I've had my G42 230 M Sport for a year now, almost to the day, and I love it a lot. I don't need, and have no use for, B58 power...I think few do unless on the track. Nonetheless, the handling is so much better near the limit than the M240 Xdrive for sure. I get everyone loves power. And I'm digging the new, and very heavy!, M2. But again, my 230 is such a pure, balanced sport coupe! I highly recommend it.
I’m getting my 2024 230i xdrive msport delivered in a couple weeks and watching the reviews from slightly older models of the car makes me even more excited to get the new one with all the minor improvements. Great review
I had a 2019 Mazda 3 and just picked a thunder night 230i a couple weeks ago and the car is such a good daily. I really wanted the M240 but I couldn’t source one for a good price. If you are on the fence about the 230 I wouldn’t hesitate it handles amazing and pulls pretty well even over 100. Amazing review topher! Always take your advice over many other reviewers because there’s no BS you just tells us what we want to know as enthusiasts
@@clarkdowdall09 I've had cars from Toyota, Nissan, Honda, Mazda, and Ford. Out of that group. Mazda's quality is definitely the best, but it still doesn't hold a candle to BMW. BMW's powertrains are head, neck, and shoulders above the aforementioned brands.
@@madpistol definitely stand by what you say. I’ve also owned a Toyota and Honda on top of the Mazda and even though the Mazda was on a different level to any other main stream car but the bmw is definitely a step above. The transmission shifts so fast and the speed you can take corners and exit ramps at is insane. The Mazda impressed me but the bmw shocked me in the handling department.
I just traded a 2022 Mazda 3 AWDTurbo hatchback for a 2022 230i as well. Love the quality and handling of this BMW. Much better driver’s car at essentially the same price.$39k.
yea I've heard the whistle too, have you thought of a getting an exhaust mod on it to amp the sound up a bit? I'm thinking of getting a muffler change out but I'm not schooled in it.
Incredible car, but from purely an exterior design standpoint, I prefer the last generation 2 series. Hearing you say it handles better than your BRZ though, was extremely high praise.
Just read Car and Driver’s review on this car. I think it’s a fantastic package. I just want to highlight how good the ergonomics seem to be on this car. The presence of physics controls is such a highlight, and I absolutely love that you have a map display between the speed and the revs. Integrated so well!! Also, the dynamics of this car are absolutely spot on, and the interior materials are a definite improvement over the previous generation. Price is right on the car, too. I just wish it had a manual so badly. If the 230i came with a stick and the M240i didn’t, I’d still take the 230i, as this 4 cylinder is definitely quick enough and they worked out the bugs that the N20 had.
Just 4 or 5 more months and this car will be mine. Will most likely get a 2023 CPO with no more than 10k miles. M Sport package for sure. I keep coming back to this video to remind me of how sweet this car is.
Another great review! I've got the old version with manual transmission and a tune, and I'm always impressed at how fast & fun it is for a 2 liter, and it's so easy to live with. I'm coming from mostly 2-seater sports cars, but now need a back seat. These things will definitely grow on you.
BMW nailed the category here. Glad to see they still make a “small” relatively inexpensive sport “sedan” with traditional BMW traits and driving dynamics.
After nlw owning a bmw m230i for around a week I must say that I have fallen in love with bmw and had so much fun with this car. It’s responsive, plenty fast, and it handles like a champ. No complaints at all
I’ve had my 2022 BMW 230i coupe in mineral white metallic for approximately 3 months now & it’s the best car i’ve ever owned also my first BMW. I previously had a 2020 Hyundai Sonata SEL+ 1.6T & you can totally tell the difference lol. However, in terms of driver assistance features… Hyundai definitely has that on lock 🔒 🤷🏽♂️ nonetheless BMW is a household name for performance!
thats my car i got in purple and random ppl have said "Yes purple I know thats right!" or "nice ride" as I drive by. So happy BMW decided to include purple
Great video yet again Topher.. I need your help good sir. I currently own a 2016 ND1 miata grand touring which i use as a daily. I've had it for the past seven years and was considering the 230i as a replacement. I got a way longer bumper to bumper commute and want some additional creature comforts....I love being able to throw the miata into any turn and play around with the rear, and i think it's one of the main points of enjoyment of the car for me. I drove my friends 2010 base cayman and didn't like it due to it feeling like a more mature car and me not being able to get the rear end out as easily even on his all seasons (only drove it on a hot dry day). Would you say the 230i is more like the cayman or the miata when it comes to the play of the rear end? I'm perfectly ok getting rid of the stick because of how good the zf is and frankly i'm getting tired of commuting with a stick. I just want to make sure i'm looking at the right car, if not do you have another suggestion? Thanks again.
230i seems like it’d fit the bill perfectly. It’s not as tail happy as the Miata, but also not as buttoned down as a Cayman. You can get it to move around a bit - it’s a fun but comfortable daily! Did you see the track review of the 230i? ua-cam.com/video/qNQmJZ46gVk/v-deo.htmlsi=7QVBsJc9bcpd_NB9
@@TheTopher Thank you very much for taking the time to respond back to my comment. I did get a chance to watch the 230i track video along with the 2009 porsche cayman S review you just dropped. Perfect timing for my question. I think i'm just about ready to pull the trigger on the 230i. Thank you once again for the response, it reaffirms to me that you are the best automotive reviewer on youtube, and you also truly care about your viewers.
I was on market almost 1 year and I decided to go with 230i. Why because this car give you everything almost good amount. Nice interior, exterior. Good power, faster than q60, mustang 2.0, good price, comfort ride, gas saver. What you want more 😃
@@rembo183 you got good price. i sold mine. i was paid 41K with premium. but they was gave me 2K discount. i sold 38 to dealer. if i sold private probably 40-41K. i put extra 10K and jump m240i. because i was want to go track but after market suspension void waranty and cost near 4-5K. so i said go then m240i. :D of course i dont eat any more outside. lol
Looks like you could drop about $ 4500 off the price if you eliminated the non-performance enhancing options putting it in the 45K ballpark. A good alternative to the Supra 2.0, but pricewise, on a different level than a GR86 Auto. Good to see BMW getting back to the business of engaging driver experiences in cars not wearing the M badges. The ZF 8-speed seems about as good as you can get in an auto, and I suspect we'll never see a third pedal.
@@tresjolieme81 Here we are 9 months later. How are you liking the 230i? Yeah, Subaru/Toyota seemingly shot themselves in the foot by sticking with that old Lexus-sourced 6-speed on the 86/BRZ when they did the latest refresh. Not sure what they had in the 4 cyl Supra, but would guess it is an 8-speed DCT sourced from BMW. I'm kind of a MT die-hard, but I hear you on the "crawling out" of the GR86. I have a '17 BRZ Limited with PP, and it's a really fun car, but my wife isn't MT fluent, so unless I want to be locked into doing all the driving on a road trip, the Forester XT is used. I'm definitely having thoughts about finding something engaging, but with a GOOD DCT. Easier to get in and out of wouldn't hurt, and the nice greenhouse is always a plus. Seems the challenge with BMW is that a) You likely can't find a 230i equipped to keep the price "around 37kk, and in order to get the performance that Topher is gushing over, is going to require you to add several performance based packages, so you are going to be mid-40's. (Sorry Topher, but a 10-12k leap from the GR86 to this 230i is a gigantic leap. Not likely I'd cross shop them if my original budget was mid-40's.) Then you have to find one that has the "go faster" goodies without the automatic dog washers that you don't care to pay for. All that said, it is great to see BMW steering back towards their old "Ultimate Driving Machine" mindset. Topher did a good review and was very impressed with the new Kona N, which I see on-line locally for 37k. Obviously not a 230i interior, way more road noise, higher center of gravity, and FWD, but definitely a fun car with an 8-speed DCT that he raved about. Hyundai nabbed a guy who worked for BMW's M-division for 30 years, and he heads up Hyundai's N efforts. The Kona N looks a bit less stately than the BMW too, but not as boy racer as the first gen Civic Type R. So many cars, so little time! Enjoy that BMW.
@TheTopher loved the video. Very comprehensive while still being fun. Please tell me the fun of this car outweighs the practicality of a 330i. I have a 7 year old, and wife and I are planning another youngin. Should be doable in a pinch to get them in there right? We have her small SUV for full on family outings. My car will be focused on work commute.
13:38 what do you think of the LCI interior coming this July? As someone who currently owned a mk7 GTI and is considering trading it in for sth better, do you know what to expect with those climate control on the screen rather than physical buttons? Because many suggest it could be a deal breaker and I wonder if they are exaggerating it or it could really be that inconvenient. I find those three old fashioned knobs quite easy to use on my car btw.
Which would you buy this or M240. How would you option y pro u purchase? If 230, worth getting performance options or not? Which options would you get on 230? M240?
rwd is definitely a more ideal car if you dont need X drive for all weather needs. The drivability vs the X drive which is a lot more of a battle of steering/body roll/ front to rear communication into and mid corner/throttle. Compared to the RWD 230i. Just feels a lot more fun to drive/daily. Including the steering/chassis feel vs X drive which feels sluggish at times or to a range where the front and rear end arent as in touch with the steering and car. Going to keep an eye out for one with an m/package. I enjoy the rear bumper/splitter vs the textured plastic garnish offered with these. Had my eye on the brz for a long time but im thinking i want something with something in regards to more/car to offer like a 230i or a GTI. Id consider a used m235 gran coupe as well
@@porfiriato84 only from a pricing standpoint some used X drive M235 are around the low 30s from a few years ago. Though id rather have a 230i with the m suspension/brakes package NGL
can you get your hands on the jeep renegade 4x4 the liberyty replacement on the fiat chassi? i've been looking at those for awhile and don't know what i think about them i like the small body and stuff but i just rather have a pro look at it
This is best bang for the bux sports coupe if you're picking the GR86, Miata, base Supra and the new Z. Mainly at least for me, it gives you an option for a moonroof-a sport car must! I like the wheel arches reminds me of my all timer Impreza 22B. And yeah, the design is really growing on me as well. I wonder could you just order the bare bone model for around $36k...
Late to this video, but I’m looking into the 230 or 240 and with the 230 having the AWD system available; do you think you would still go with the 230 over the 240 with AWD?
@@alh06 I mean yeah if you have friends under 5'5. You saw how tight Topher was back there. I'll probably end up test driving both when the time comes. I do prefer MT tho.
I like the interior, nice sharp edges. The contrasting colored interior doors are very richly styled. The starting price always sounds good on BMW. It's exterior looks for me doesn't equate to a possible 48K car. I would probably shop this with a 2023 Acura integra for value albeit losing rear wheel drive. Overall excellent job on an overdue interior for a small little coupe.
The problem with the Integra is that the interior is basically a restyled Civic interior. The BMW 230i coupe is almost directly lifted out of the 3 series. In other words, Acura sourced their interior from a lower product, while BMW sourced it from a higher product. You get what you pay for.
4:57 somehow this is a common misconception in North America. The F44 m235i is not based on a Mini Couper, but rather on the F40 1 series BMW. That car is the base for the UKL2 platform, that is used for many models in the BMW Group
...based on the f40, which itself was based on a Mini Cooper lul. UKL2 is just a larger version of the Mini UKL1 I will say the base model 2015 Mini Cooper I test drove with a manual and turbo 3 cyl was a blast. Meanwhile I die inside a little when I get an X1 loaner car
Why is there a need to justify it? 2 is better than 3 if you want to have fun - its both smaller and lighter and IMO looks better. Id buy one over 3 even if it was more expensive
You have been watching too much Scotty Kilmer.... Yes all BMWs have plastic parts that fail due to heat eventually. But if you are in the market for such a beauty, you have tons of money, you don't care about replacing those parts. Other than that, the transmission on these is VERY solid, and the engine too is quite reliable as long as it is maintained properly.
@@that-guy5055I'm just waiting for my next raise in 2 weeks. I make decent $ but w this economy we can all use the extra cash. I've had my eye on a slightly used one so I may just pull the trigger if it's still available in a month.
I own a 2021 230i XDrive and am waiting for a 2023 BRZ that I have on order. I am having trouble with your statement that the 230 may “handle better” than your BRZ. Surely the extra 700 lbs of the 230 are a very “feelable” handicap in comparison…?
The BMW 230i has better front rear weight distribution vs the BRZ/GR86, so the increased mass doesn't cause push or oversteer. That and the more compliant suspension make it handle more neutrally (the GR86/BRZ will oversteer more easily). That's my observation. This also has better visibility. I personally think the GR86 handles more like a sports car and lighter on it feet and is compliant enough on bumps. I'd test drive both and see which one you like. Can't go wrong either way, two of the best handling cars for the street at any price.
How could the 230 have better front-to-rear weight ratio given that the twins have almost 50/50? And trust me, the 230 has way worse outward visibility because of how low and large the whole central mirror assembly is. It is constantly blocking my view of cars at stop signs to my right. I owned a 2013 and 2017 BRZ and found their mirror could be positioned much higher and I have seen the same in the 2022s I have driven.
I’m planning to lease my first car was gonna ask if anyone had advice I mean what would leasing this car roughly cost me monthly is it worth it or am I just blinded by the car
Found your channel yesterday and man…it’s refreshing to see such a great way of reviewing cars. Definitely like this style more than other car reviewers. Keep up the great work.
This guy has best reviews, love TheTopher content
Master in his craft, most definitely.
He’s awesome when I first found the channel I was addicted
The 230i coupe is a sweetheart. The M240i is a monster. Take your pick. You can't go wrong with either.
230i M sport is such a sleeper 😮
230i is enough 😊
I’m absolutely in love with the 2 Series. I love that BMW put a straight 6 under the bonnet but still offers great 4 cylinders options that don’t feel underpowered. BMW’s 4 cylinders engines can please car enthusiasts looking for a daily driver they can enjoy on the road. Anyway, BMW makes in my opinion the best interiors. I think I prefer this interior to the 2021-2022 remodel introduced in the I4, Ix and recently on the 3 Series. A car is not an Ipad and screens are very often disturbing. Thanks to the Topher for making us, viewers, feel like we are with him in the car going for a ride, with those beautiful Michigan sunsets ❤️❤️
Wife has a 330i, and to be honest that four-cylinder is great. We have averaged just over 30 MPG over our one year with the car. Even in city driving it gets close to 30 MPG. Not only that, but it is a nice torquey engine that never feels stressed. Though I do wish we had the six for its sound, objectively the four-cylinder is impressive.
Hate to break it to you, but starting production 7/2022, the 2 coupe gets the Curved Display from the i4 as standard. You can already see it on the configurator on BMW’s website.
Actual insanity that bmw somehow got 255hp out of a 4 cylinder
Is this a stiffer ride tan a base 230i without the MSport and Dynamic Handling Optons?
I've had my G42 230 M Sport for a year now, almost to the day, and I love it a lot. I don't need, and have no use for, B58 power...I think few do unless on the track. Nonetheless, the handling is so much better near the limit than the M240 Xdrive for sure. I get everyone loves power. And I'm digging the new, and very heavy!, M2. But again, my 230 is such a pure, balanced sport coupe! I highly recommend it.
This is cool to know. I've never owned BMW and I'm highly considering this one sometime in the Fall
I’m getting my 2024 230i xdrive msport delivered in a couple weeks and watching the reviews from slightly older models of the car makes me even more excited to get the new one with all the minor improvements. Great review
BMW really nailed this new 2 series. Its much better than the previous gens in my opinion.
I had a 2019 Mazda 3 and just picked a thunder night 230i a couple weeks ago and the car is such a good daily. I really wanted the M240 but I couldn’t source one for a good price. If you are on the fence about the 230 I wouldn’t hesitate it handles amazing and pulls pretty well even over 100. Amazing review topher! Always take your advice over many other reviewers because there’s no BS you just tells us what we want to know as enthusiasts
Are you a multiverse version of me? I have a 2018 Mazda 3 and I just ordered a 230i in portimao blue.
@@anhayes25 hahaha that’s crazy! You’re gonna enjoy it, the Mazda was fun but the bmw is on another level. Good color choice too.
@@clarkdowdall09 I've had cars from Toyota, Nissan, Honda, Mazda, and Ford. Out of that group. Mazda's quality is definitely the best, but it still doesn't hold a candle to BMW. BMW's powertrains are head, neck, and shoulders above the aforementioned brands.
@@madpistol definitely stand by what you say. I’ve also owned a Toyota and Honda on top of the Mazda and even though the Mazda was on a different level to any other main stream car but the bmw is definitely a step above. The transmission shifts so fast and the speed you can take corners and exit ramps at is insane. The Mazda impressed me but the bmw shocked me in the handling department.
I just traded a 2022 Mazda 3 AWDTurbo hatchback for a 2022 230i as well. Love the quality and handling of this BMW. Much better driver’s car at essentially the same price.$39k.
It always surprises me how quickly the 230i can get up to speed. Hearing that turbo whistle when I accelerate is like music to my ears!
yea I've heard the whistle too, have you thought of a getting an exhaust mod on it to amp the sound up a bit? I'm thinking of getting a muffler change out but I'm not schooled in it.
The startup chime is SO satisfying!
Incredible car, but from purely an exterior design standpoint, I prefer the last generation 2 series. Hearing you say it handles better than your BRZ though, was extremely high praise.
Just read Car and Driver’s review on this car. I think it’s a fantastic package. I just want to highlight how good the ergonomics seem to be on this car. The presence of physics controls is such a highlight, and I absolutely love that you have a map display between the speed and the revs. Integrated so well!! Also, the dynamics of this car are absolutely spot on, and the interior materials are a definite improvement over the previous generation. Price is right on the car, too. I just wish it had a manual so badly. If the 230i came with a stick and the M240i didn’t, I’d still take the 230i, as this 4 cylinder is definitely quick enough and they worked out the bugs that the N20 had.
Just 4 or 5 more months and this car will be mine. Will most likely get a 2023 CPO with no more than 10k miles. M Sport package for sure. I keep coming back to this video to remind me of how sweet this car is.
Man i got to say it you do an amazing job of reviewing cars, i love it 👏
Appreciate your verbal overview, however, Why do you not use the Paddle Shifters?
Another great review! I've got the old version with manual transmission and a tune, and I'm always impressed at how fast & fun it is for a 2 liter, and it's so easy to live with.
I'm coming from mostly 2-seater sports cars, but now need a back seat. These things will definitely grow on you.
BMW nailed the category here. Glad to see they still make a “small” relatively inexpensive sport “sedan” with traditional BMW traits and driving dynamics.
the 240 is an absolute demon, which is why i've pulled the trigger on one :)
This is a 230i
ayeee topher upload 😈
Best driving coupe today, for the money,
After nlw owning a bmw m230i for around a week I must say that I have fallen in love with bmw and had so much fun with this car. It’s responsive, plenty fast, and it handles like a champ. No complaints at all
Probably my next car. It’s a sleeper and great review.
Update: just bought one and love it!
@@drumflip1253nice! I’m thinking of buying a 2022 metallic purple. This hyped me up :)
I wouldn't unless you like frequently replacing cars or have alot of money
@@GoldRaven-oe4by I have a car two to three years and trade them. So far I am loving the car had it about 6 months.
I’ve had my 2022 BMW 230i coupe in mineral white metallic for approximately 3 months now & it’s the best car i’ve ever owned also my first BMW. I previously had a 2020 Hyundai Sonata SEL+ 1.6T & you can totally tell the difference lol. However, in terms of driver assistance features… Hyundai definitely has that on lock 🔒 🤷🏽♂️ nonetheless BMW is a household name for performance!
How are the seats? Would it be tiring to drive it for an hour+ commute?
@@themagician7734 Honestly, the seats are comfortable i will say they’re a bit firm. The quality is there.
thats my car i got in purple and random ppl have said "Yes purple I know thats right!" or "nice ride" as I drive by. So happy BMW decided to include purple
Just bought a 2021 230i with M sport package
Only 34000 km. Love this car
And appreciate your listing the equipment as tested👍
17:00 🔥🔥🔥🔥 I LOVE THIS
Nice review as always thanks. . That color really jumps out. I like it it better than the 4 door with the fwd, but not sure what other people think.
what a beautiful landscape on the highway with the sun in front
easy mods - downpipe + tune and its a really great daily
Great video yet again Topher.. I need your help good sir. I currently own a 2016 ND1 miata grand touring which i use as a daily. I've had it for the past seven years and was considering the 230i as a replacement. I got a way longer bumper to bumper commute and want some additional creature comforts....I love being able to throw the miata into any turn and play around with the rear, and i think it's one of the main points of enjoyment of the car for me. I drove my friends 2010 base cayman and didn't like it due to it feeling like a more mature car and me not being able to get the rear end out as easily even on his all seasons (only drove it on a hot dry day). Would you say the 230i is more like the cayman or the miata when it comes to the play of the rear end? I'm perfectly ok getting rid of the stick because of how good the zf is and frankly i'm getting tired of commuting with a stick. I just want to make sure i'm looking at the right car, if not do you have another suggestion? Thanks again.
230i seems like it’d fit the bill perfectly. It’s not as tail happy as the Miata, but also not as buttoned down as a Cayman. You can get it to move around a bit - it’s a fun but comfortable daily! Did you see the track review of the 230i? ua-cam.com/video/qNQmJZ46gVk/v-deo.htmlsi=7QVBsJc9bcpd_NB9
@@TheTopher Thank you very much for taking the time to respond back to my comment. I did get a chance to watch the 230i track video along with the 2009 porsche cayman S review you just dropped. Perfect timing for my question. I think i'm just about ready to pull the trigger on the 230i. Thank you once again for the response, it reaffirms to me that you are the best automotive reviewer on youtube, and you also truly care about your viewers.
I was on market almost 1 year and I decided to go with 230i. Why because this car give you everything almost good amount. Nice interior, exterior. Good power, faster than q60, mustang 2.0, good price, comfort ride, gas saver. What you want more 😃
I just got mine too!
@@rembo183 how much you paid and which standard ?
@@onderyetiskin - $39,000 options - Convenience package, heated seats heated, steering wheel.
@@onderyetiskin - 2022 BMW 230i
@@rembo183 you got good price. i sold mine. i was paid 41K with premium. but they was gave me 2K discount. i sold 38 to dealer. if i sold private probably 40-41K. i put extra 10K and jump m240i. because i was want to go track but after market suspension void waranty and cost near 4-5K. so i said go then m240i. :D of course i dont eat any more outside. lol
So many good cars in this price range, it is so hard to choose from.
What are the other options
Absolutely fantastic review. I’m about sold on one of these as my next daily.
Looks like you could drop about $ 4500 off the price if you eliminated the non-performance enhancing options putting it in the 45K ballpark. A good alternative to the Supra 2.0, but pricewise, on a different level than a GR86 Auto. Good to see BMW getting back to the business of engaging driver experiences in cars not wearing the M badges. The ZF 8-speed seems about as good as you can get in an auto, and I suspect we'll never see a third pedal.
GR86 looks great at all angles, I got this one though for the better interior and not having to crawl out
@@tresjolieme81 Here we are 9 months later. How are you liking the 230i? Yeah, Subaru/Toyota seemingly shot themselves in the foot by sticking with that old Lexus-sourced 6-speed on the 86/BRZ when they did the latest refresh. Not sure what they had in the 4 cyl Supra, but would guess it is an 8-speed DCT sourced from BMW. I'm kind of a MT die-hard, but I hear you on the "crawling out" of the GR86. I have a '17 BRZ Limited with PP, and it's a really fun car, but my wife isn't MT fluent, so unless I want to be locked into doing all the driving on a road trip, the Forester XT is used. I'm definitely having thoughts about finding something engaging, but with a GOOD DCT. Easier to get in and out of wouldn't hurt, and the nice greenhouse is always a plus. Seems the challenge with BMW is that a) You likely can't find a 230i equipped to keep the price "around 37kk, and in order to get the performance that Topher is gushing over, is going to require you to add several performance based packages, so you are going to be mid-40's. (Sorry Topher, but a 10-12k leap from the GR86 to this 230i is a gigantic leap. Not likely I'd cross shop them if my original budget was mid-40's.) Then you have to find one that has the "go faster" goodies without the automatic dog washers that you don't care to pay for. All that said, it is great to see BMW steering back towards their old "Ultimate Driving Machine" mindset. Topher did a good review and was very impressed with the new Kona N, which I see on-line locally for 37k. Obviously not a 230i interior, way more road noise, higher center of gravity, and FWD, but definitely a fun car with an 8-speed DCT that he raved about. Hyundai nabbed a guy who worked for BMW's M-division for 30 years, and he heads up Hyundai's N efforts. The Kona N looks a bit less stately than the BMW too, but not as boy racer as the first gen Civic Type R. So many cars, so little time! Enjoy that BMW.
Nice power slide! Even a 230i can be fun!
Topher 06:51 did you test out that LSD with those tyre marks? Haha
I love smells of new cars
What’s the difference between the 230i and 430i besides the obvious difference in exteriors? Do they perform the same or does the 230i perform better?
@TheTopher loved the video. Very comprehensive while still being fun. Please tell me the fun of this car outweighs the practicality of a 330i. I have a 7 year old, and wife and I are planning another youngin. Should be doable in a pinch to get them in there right? We have her small SUV for full on family outings. My car will be focused on work commute.
Shame it has no manual it would be such a sweet enthusiast bargain, with a tune around E36 M3 power.
I’ve got a 24 230i with i8 tech. Took me a week to get used to it but love the tech now
Yeah I've heard people say it takes a bit to get accustomed to it, but once you set your shortcuts it's a pretty good and smooth system
13:38 what do you think of the LCI interior coming this July? As someone who currently owned a mk7 GTI and is considering trading it in for sth better, do you know what to expect with those climate control on the screen rather than physical buttons? Because many suggest it could be a deal breaker and I wonder if they are exaggerating it or it could really be that inconvenient. I find those three old fashioned knobs quite easy to use on my car btw.
If it’s anything like the new 7 it’s going to be all touch unfortunately
@@dubber4life I know it's going to be all touch based. I am wondering how it feels like to live with one.
Something most reviewers don't mention is how low the seating position is.
Been waiting on this review
Have you tested a base 230i without additional options ie M Sport and Dynamic handling options
Which would you buy this or M240. How would you option y pro u purchase? If 230, worth getting performance options or not? Which options would you get on 230? M240?
Great review. Everything I'd want to know. The 240i sounds like over kill.
Lol, the passenger seat tried to pull a Final Destination on you.
Underrated comment, seeing it back up gave me anxiety.
Cadillac dash and this are my favs.
I think you should try the M240i RWD
Funny how I was just looking at a 230i the other day but needed to do some research on it. Can’t afford it just yet but maaan have you sold me on it 😂
Hey Chris , love the vids , keep it up , I hope you drive something like a Lamborghini in the future! , that would be great 👍
rwd is definitely a more ideal car if you dont need X drive for all weather needs. The drivability vs the X drive which is a lot more of a battle of steering/body roll/ front to rear communication into and mid corner/throttle. Compared to the RWD 230i. Just feels a lot more fun to drive/daily. Including the steering/chassis feel vs X drive which feels sluggish at times or to a range where the front and rear end arent as in touch with the steering and car. Going to keep an eye out for one with an m/package. I enjoy the rear bumper/splitter vs the textured plastic garnish offered with these. Had my eye on the brz for a long time but im thinking i want something with something in regards to more/car to offer like a 230i or a GTI. Id consider a used m235 gran coupe as well
No way. A Gran coupe does not compare to a 230i
@@porfiriato84 only from a pricing standpoint some used X drive M235 are around the low 30s from a few years ago. Though id rather have a 230i with the m suspension/brakes package NGL
What is the music testing sound track that you were using??? Enjoy your chuckles of enjoyment🙂
can you get your hands on the jeep renegade 4x4 the liberyty replacement on the fiat chassi? i've been looking at those for awhile and don't know what i think about them i like the small body and stuff but i just rather have a pro look at it
I need one of these
This is best bang for the bux sports coupe if you're picking the GR86, Miata, base Supra and the new Z. Mainly at least for me, it gives you an option for a moonroof-a sport car must!
I like the wheel arches reminds me of my all timer Impreza 22B. And yeah, the design is really growing on me as well.
I wonder could you just order the bare bone model for around $36k...
Rzeczywiście piękny samochód. Zamierzam kupić go żonie. Jeździ szybko, w sam raz dla niej.
Late to this video, but I’m looking into the 230 or 240 and with the 230 having the AWD system available; do you think you would still go with the 230 over the 240 with AWD?
Like to see how this compares to the new Z, they’re basically matched for price
If you need a back seat you buy this, if not, get the Z.
@@infidel900rr the back seat in this BMW is hardly a back seat tho. Super tight. As Topher mentioned it's basically a 2 seater
@@porfiriato84 This is useful though for short trips with friends and storage, that itself is a major buying factor
@@alh06 I mean yeah if you have friends under 5'5. You saw how tight Topher was back there. I'll probably end up test driving both when the time comes. I do prefer MT tho.
@@porfiriato84 You can fit friends over 5’5 back there albeit tightly. The 86 backseat is smaller and some of my 5’8 friends fit back there
Better than a 2.0 Supra??
I’m leaning towards the M240i, in Thundernight Metallic.
Would the 230xdrive (awd) handle just ss good?
I like the interior, nice sharp edges. The contrasting colored interior doors are very richly styled. The starting price always sounds good on BMW. It's exterior looks for me doesn't equate to a possible 48K car. I would probably shop this with a 2023 Acura integra for value albeit losing rear wheel drive. Overall excellent job on an overdue interior for a small little coupe.
The problem with the Integra is that the interior is basically a restyled Civic interior. The BMW 230i coupe is almost directly lifted out of the 3 series.
In other words, Acura sourced their interior from a lower product, while BMW sourced it from a higher product. You get what you pay for.
Not sure how this is comparable to the new integra at all.
How does this compare to your BRZ if you want a fun daily driver?
nice license plate *R69 NTT*
Totally OT but are you rocking an Omega Speedy Pro/Moonwatch?
what is the music sound track that you were using?? Appreciate your response with that info!
Manual gearbox is a MUST on this car
There both amazing cars both fun to drive specially 300lb lighter 230 canyons feels much better
What would you pick between this and the M240i?
Basically just a z4 but 200 pounds heavier and more luxurious
No. You can actually fit people in the back seat.
My Gosh the only part i love so much of the car is the grill.. i mean it guys
would you pick this or the s3?
2023 iDrive8 is out, I feel bad for iDrive7
4:57 somehow this is a common misconception in North America. The F44 m235i is not based on a Mini Couper, but rather on the F40 1 series BMW. That car is the base for the UKL2 platform, that is used for many models in the BMW Group
...based on the f40, which itself was based on a Mini Cooper lul. UKL2 is just a larger version of the Mini UKL1
I will say the base model 2015 Mini Cooper I test drove with a manual and turbo 3 cyl was a blast. Meanwhile I die inside a little when I get an X1 loaner car
Harman Kardon system vs base audio system, is it that much better?
Yes, I picked one of these up back in May & the HK sounds really good much much better than the base stereo.
Nancy here, very nice video.
Can you do the 2022 lexus lx? surprised you havent reviewed it already.
Just got about 30 mins to film one this week, video coming soon!
@@TheTopher Awesome, looking forward to it!
I realise it's a different price category, but how does this drive compared to the M235i GC?
It would be hard to justify this two series when the LCI 2023 3 series is the same sort of price.
Why is there a need to justify it? 2 is better than 3 if you want to have fun - its both smaller and lighter and IMO looks better. Id buy one over 3 even if it was more expensive
Will this car be reliable? Does this one has plastic engine parts that breaks?
You have been watching too much Scotty Kilmer.... Yes all BMWs have plastic parts that fail due to heat eventually. But if you are in the market for such a beauty, you have tons of money, you don't care about replacing those parts. Other than that, the transmission on these is VERY solid, and the engine too is quite reliable as long as it is maintained properly.
I was thinking about a new GR86. How's the maintenance with the BMW 230i? I'm the kind of person who keeps a vehicle long term. I need reliability
Free maintenance for 3 years with the every new car
So which one did you choose? Thinking of getting the GR86 or 230...
@@bj10jgoI'm choosing the BMW. I prefer the much nicer interior. More spacious and quicker. IDC if it's automatic, I've driven manuals all my life.
@@porfiriato84glad i came across this comment, have you since made your decision? If so, how do you like what you got?
I just bought a 228i grand coupe only to find out that while most agree that it’s a solid starter bmw, nobody actually likes it.
Lol why didn't you get the 230 instead?
@@porfiriato84 I’m poor😢 but it’s also my first bmw and I wanted to just try a cheaper model out before I commit to something more serious
@@that-guy5055I'm just waiting for my next raise in 2 weeks. I make decent $ but w this economy we can all use the extra cash. I've had my eye on a slightly used one so I may just pull the trigger if it's still available in a month.
I own a 2021 230i XDrive and am waiting for a 2023 BRZ that I have on order. I am having trouble with your statement that the 230 may “handle better” than your BRZ. Surely the extra 700 lbs of the 230 are a very “feelable” handicap in comparison…?
The BMW 230i has better front rear weight distribution vs the BRZ/GR86, so the increased mass doesn't cause push or oversteer.
That and the more compliant suspension make it handle more neutrally (the GR86/BRZ will oversteer more easily). That's my observation.
This also has better visibility.
I personally think the GR86 handles more like a sports car and lighter on it feet and is compliant enough on bumps.
I'd test drive both and see which one you like. Can't go wrong either way, two of the best handling cars for the street at any price.
How could the 230 have better front-to-rear weight ratio given that the twins have almost 50/50? And trust me, the 230 has way worse outward visibility because of how low and large the whole central mirror assembly is. It is constantly blocking my view of cars at stop signs to my right. I owned a 2013 and 2017 BRZ and found their mirror could be positioned much higher and I have seen the same in the 2022s I have driven.
@@davidallen3284 if you're so unsure about Topher's opinion then simply test drive it yourself?
@@porfiriato84 I OWN a 2021 230i XDrive with the MSport/Performance Package and now have 50,000 kms on it.
BMW keeps emailing me to trade my 3er for this...tempting
Mines on the way, but we don’t get the option for LSD. Im hoping this doesn’t ruin the driving experience
No you don't need an LSD on the street. This is not a track car so don't worry about it.
This is so perfext for me. 250 horses is perfect, its pretry premium, pretty fast, pretty affordable.
This might be controversial but the rear end looks like what the 2022 Honda Civic coupe would have looked like
was not aware that the 230i has sport plus?!
Wonder why the m230i has a black painted deck spoiler, and the m240i has a body color spoiler?
Same thing with the hellcat vs the scat pack. The scat has a black wing but the hellcat has a body color
Almost 300lbft out of a 2 liter? Yeah im sure that will last a long time
Similar engine that Honda has been putting in all their cars, the 2.0T. I bet if it’s a Honda you wouldn’t say the same thing 😂
Try driving a four-cylinder engine 20 years ago and come back at me with which one would you prefer
when can we except a 2023 or 2024 230i with M sport ?
There's no difference other than the new infotainment/screens
So there's really no need to review it.
Does the car have a HUD?
Pretty cool how the start-up chime is Red Hot Chili Peppers, lol..
I’m planning to lease my first car was gonna ask if anyone had advice I mean what would leasing this car roughly cost me monthly is it worth it or am I just blinded by the car
If you need to ask advice about leasing youre already screwed. That said just dont. Idk where youre from but prices are through the roof
Downpipe charge pipe intake trans tune with piggy back it will turn to M240
Will this make the car less reliable? I've never owned BMW and I'm interested in this one. So I'm genuinely asking 😅
It just hit me that this is essentially a rear wheel drive MINI JCW
really nice interior but I just realize this car is just as big as 3 series e90
This car is nice but for 10k more I’m buying a M240i. You get AWD and that glorious B58 engine.