BMW's 2026 M235 xDrive Gran Coupe Undergoes First Assessment: Breaking the Monotony of Mundane Performance Vehicles
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The 2026 BMW M235 xDrive Gran Coupe has arrived, and it's packed with notable improvements over its predecessor. This second-generation model in the 2 Series Gran Coupe lineup offers more horsepower, a more advanced transmission, upgraded suspension, refreshed interior technologies, and an updated platform.
Under the hood, the 2026 M235i xDrive is powered by a 2.0L inline-4 B48 turbocharged engine producing 312 hp, an increase of about 11 hp over the previous generation. The engine delivers 295 lb-ft of torque, slightly down compared to the prior model, but it now revs higher to deliver more power.
The older 8-speed automatic transmission has been replaced with a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic, improving shift speed and smoothness. Paddle shifters for manual control are included, enhancing driver engagement. Clicking through the gears with the paddles affixed to the steering wheel provides a fun driving experience.
The 2026 M235 xDrive's chassis and suspension have also seen improvements. The car features an adaptive M suspension as standard or option, improving ride quality and handling precision. Exterior updates include a rear spoiler and unique M235 trims for a sportier appearance.
Inside, the 2026 M235i offers special interior lighting, active seats as options, and updated driver-assist features aligning with newer BMW lower-range models. A digital, tech-focused interior replaces the older setup.
The 2026 M235 xDrive benefits from improvements in its Adaptive M suspension, offering a smoother ride compared to its predecessor. The M235's talkative front end does an exceptional job communicating adhesion to the driver.
On the road, the M235 xDrive exhibits nimble maneuverability around town and precise handling on a canyon road. Working with BMW's M Compound brakes, the sticky rubber is partially responsible for bringing the M235 xDrive from 60 mph to a halt in just 106 feet. The seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission shifts quickly and crisply.
Despite its front-wheel-drive-based underpinnings, the M235 xDrive has a nose-heavy visual appearance. Some critics have described the exterior styling as clumsy. However, the tremendous grip from Goodyear Eagle F1 Supersport tires contributes to the entertainment factor, and the confident stopping behavior is strengthened by a nicely weighted brake pedal and good body control under hard deceleration.
The 2026 BMW M235 xDrive Gran Coupe can accelerate from 0-60 mph in 4.4 seconds. Holding down the left paddle for more than a second enables the M Sport Boost, which drops the transmission to the lowest available gear and heightens the M235's responsiveness.
In summary, the 2026 BMW M235 xDrive Gran Coupe presents more horsepower, a more advanced dual-clutch transmission, upgraded suspension, refreshed interior technologies, and an updated platform, concentrating on improved driving dynamics and luxury amenities while maintaining the compact and sporty Gran Coupe form. The M235 xDrive records 0.94 g of lateral acceleration on the skidpad and averages 0.79 g around the figure-eight test track, making it a formidable contender in its class.
- Motortrend may soon release a comprehensive review of the 2026 BMW M235 xDrive Gran Coupe, highlighting its advancements in horsepower, transmission, and suspension.
- The exterior of the 2026 M235 xDrive boasts a rear spoiler and unique M235 trims, giving it a sportier appeal.
- The finance industry may find the 2026 M235 xDrive an attractive model due to its focus on improved driving dynamics and luxury amenities.
- The 2026 M235 xDrive's 2.0L inline-4 B48 turbocharged engine delivers 312 hp, an increase from its previous generation.
- The exteriors of some competitor cars in the 2026 M235 xDrive's class have been described as clumsy, but the M235 xDrive's confident stopping behavior and good body control under hard deceleration make up for it.
- The 2026 M235 xDrive's interior features special interior lighting, active seats as options, and updated driver-assist features, aligning with newer BMW lower-range models.
- The electric vehicle segment of the automotive industry is seeing rapid growth, and the 2026 M235 xDrive is not an electric vehicle, but rather a petrol-powered car.
- The evolving transportation landscape is significantly influenced by technological advancements, and the 2026 M235 xDrive is a testament to this, with its upgraded transmission and suspension.
- In SUVs, trucks, sedans, coupes, and even sporty concept cars, technology has become increasingly integrated, and the 2026 M235 xDrive is no exception, with its tech-focused interior.
- The higher revving engine of the 2026 M235 xDrive delivers more power than its previous model, but it offers slightly less torque.
- The digital dashboard and gadgets in the 2026 M235 xDrive's interior offer a modern driving experience, enhancing luxury amenities and driver engagement.
- The 2026 M235 xDrive's M Sport Boost feature enables heightened responsiveness when holding down the left paddle, making the car more dynamic on the road.
- The sports car industry continues to innovate, and the 2026 M235 xDrive is a prime example, offering nimble maneuverability, precise handling, and quick, crisp shifting.
- The intersection of technology, the automotive industry, and football fandom is not immediately apparent, but with the increasing integration of technology in cars, one could argue that a technologically advanced car like the 2026 M235 xDrive could be a valuable gadget for football fans attending games.
