I haven’t driven many BWW cars this year, but the 220 M Sport Gran Coupe version that I drove last week was worth waiting for. I didn’t get to keep the car for Christmas, but I can definitely say that it was the best Advent present I got.
My test car came in Tanzanite Blue, and the first day my daughter saw the car she was really impressed. That ‘wow’ reaction came from an external look, possibly the red calliper brakes; she hadn’t yet sat in and experienced the classy interior look with those lovely cream seats. At first, my girl thought that the seating was a bit low, but after one journey she realised that the seating was like any regular saloon car.
When it was launched in Europe in March 2020, BMW’s original 2 Series Gran Coupe was the cheapest way of owning a saloon made by the famous German manufacturer. My test car was the second-generation F74 220 M Sport Gran Coupe, which was launched at the end of 2024.
There was a bit of a ‘growl’ out of the 1.5-litre three-cylinder petrol engine when I hit the accelerator. Overall, plenty of power and you can get from zero to 100km in 7.9 seconds if it’s speed you are after.
Inside, the decor is gorgeous and there are some nice touches of blue and red on the dash and you get a full-length sunroof to brighten up your day. You also get toggle switches at the side of the steering wheel, if you are not happy with automatic mode. That steering wheel is really chunky.
The back seat can hold three adults, but it’s probably a bit more comfortable with just two back seat passengers. The boot is huge, officially 30 litres. It’s really a comfortable car to drive and travel in.
BMW are one of the car companies moving quickly to electrify their fleet, while their hybrid M5 was recently voted Irish Performance Car of the Year.
When I was a young lad, I never dreamed of driving a BMW. The nearest I got to a BMW was listening to the late Peter Murphy and his famous Cross-Country Quiz. One of Peter’s favourite questions was: What do the letters BMW stand for? The young farmers of Ireland all knew the answer to that one, but not many were able to afford a BMW. Life has changed and now I notice a lot of young people buying second hand BMW cars; obviously they hold their value and seem to go forever. The better off farmers and young businesspeople probably opt for a new Beemer.
Prices start at €48,475, while the Gran Coupe version I drove will cost you €60,769. Road tax is €200. Only available in petrol. It’s a beauty, but a bit thirsty. I reckon a younger driver might appreciate the joys of this sporty car more than an ‘auld fella’ like me.
Still, it’s a really classy car to drive and if you take a test drive you are sure to make many of the neighbour envious. Of course, it might be difficult to keep those cream seats clean if you are transporting children with muddy football boots, but I reckon a quick rub with a damp J-Cloth should do the trick.
