Skip advert
Advertisement

BMW M235i review - not an M2, but still entertaining - Engine and gearbox

One of BMW's best

Evo rating
Price
from £34,535
  • Huge amount of performance for money; brilliant dynamic package
  • Heavy, wobbly convertible is a three-star car

Engine and gearbox

Both coupe and convertible use a 321bhp turbocharged straight-six, with the same six-speed manual gearbox as standard. Peak power is developed at 5800rpm, with 332lb ft of torque available from 1300rpm.

As standard the M235i gets a fantastic six-speed manual with a short shift, and BMW’s optional eight-speed automatic is a particularly good one. The paddles are attached to the steering wheel and have a lovely curve so that you can hook the tips of your fingers onto them.

Advertisement - Article continues below

The shifts are not as ruthless as a dual-clutch, but they are extremely good nonetheless and give you a real sense of connection when batting between gears.

Skip advert
Advertisement
Skip advert
Advertisement

Most Popular

New Porsche Macan Electric review – still the driver’s choice for SUVs?
Porsche Macan Electric – front
Reviews

New Porsche Macan Electric review – still the driver’s choice for SUVs?

The Porsche Macan has gone electric for its second generation – we've driven it in base form and £95k, 630bhp Turbo guise
23 Apr 2024
Abarth 124 Spider Fast Fleet test – 6 months with the Italian Mazda MX-5
Abarth 124 Spider
Long term tests

Abarth 124 Spider Fast Fleet test – 6 months with the Italian Mazda MX-5

The Italian upstart arrived with a mission to put the MX-5’s nose out of joint. After six months on evo’s Fast Fleet, did it do it?
23 Apr 2024
UK speeding fines 2024 – what are the latest penalties for drivers?
Speeding fines header
Advice

UK speeding fines 2024 – what are the latest penalties for drivers?

Here's everything you need to know about speeding fines in the UK and other possible motoring-related offences
18 Apr 2024