2016 BMW 2 Series

BMW's 2 Series gains its first true high-performance model for 2016, in the M2. It's powered by a turbocharged 3.0L inline six-cylinder similar to that in the M3 and M4. In this newest member of the M-car family, it makes 365 hp and 343 lb-ft of torque, and an overboost function unleashes another 26 lb-ft for short bursts of acceleration.

A six-speed manual transmission is standard, but the optional seven-speed dual-clutch automatic makes the car nominally quicker.

Carried over from last year are the other two members of the 2 Series line, the 228i and M235i, both of which can be optioned with BMW's xDrive all-wheel drive system.

The 228i uses a 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder engine that makes 241 hp and 255 lb-ft of torque, and, like the M2, the M235i gets a 3.0L turbocharged six-cylinder good for 322 hp and 330 lb-ft.

Transmission choices include a six-speed manual standard in the 228i and M235i coupe and the M235i convertible. An eight-speed automatic is optional in those cars, and standard in all convertibles and all-wheel drive cars.

Fuel consumption figures are 10.0/8.1 L/100 km (city/highway) for the 228i with six-speed manual, and 9.9/6.5 with the automatic. An M235i with six-speed is rated 11.9/8.6, and the automatic alters those figures to 11.6/7.7.

In all-wheel drive cars, consumption ratings are 10.4/6.8 for the 228i xDrive, and 12.0/7.9 for the M235i xDrive.

The M2 is rated at 11.8/8.8 L/100 km.

Coupe prices start at $36,200 for the 228i, and range to $48,950 for the M235i xDrive. Convertible tags start at $45,500 for the 228i xDrive, and top out at $55,950 for an M235i xDrive cabrio. M2 pricing hadn't been announced as of this writing.

Standard features in the 228i include a multi-function leather-trimmed steering wheel, cruise control, heated windshield washer jets, heated and power-adjustable side mirrors, 18-inch wheels with run-flat tires, eight airbags (driver and passenger frontal airbags; front and rear (coupe only) side airbags; driver and passenger knee blockers), leatherette upholstery, velour floor mats, auto-dimming rearview mirror, heated front seats, brushed aluminum trim, sliding front armrest, front fog lights, rain-sensing wipers, automatic bi-Xenon headlights, USB input, and Bluetooth.

M235i trim adds a heated steering wheel, upgraded brakes, adaptive sport suspension, power seats with driver memory, sport seats, upgraded stereo, M-specific leather steering wheel and aerodynamics package, and high-performance tires.