The pursuit of the perfect sporty coupe often conjures images of naturally aspirated engines, manual transmissions, and rear-wheel drive dynamics. However, the 2015 BMW M235i xDrive boldly challenges these conventions. Equipped with a turbocharged engine, an automatic gearbox, and all-wheel drive, this BMW coupe might seem to stray from the purist’s ideal. Yet, as this review will explore, the 2015 M235i xDrive carves its own path to driving exhilaration, proving to be an exceptionally compelling and enjoyable machine. Spoiler alert: it’s remarkably good.
Exterior Styling: A Subtle Yet Stunning Design
The test model arrived in Glacier Silver Metallic, complemented by an Oyster Dakota Leather interior and brushed aluminum trim. Initially, the color combination sparked a moment of contemplation – did it truly harmonize? However, a week spent with the 2015 BMW M235i xDrive fostered a genuine appreciation for this aesthetic pairing. In fact, this specific configuration would now be a top choice for anyone looking to purchase this BMW. The visual appeal was further enhanced by the 18-inch double-spoke wheels, shod with exceptionally grippy Michelin Pilot Super Sport tires. The M235i stands out as one of BMW’s more visually appealing models, boasting classic coupe proportions that are both timeless and captivating.
Stepping inside the 2015 M235i, the interior presents a snug yet comfortable environment. The seats are exceptionally well-designed, featuring adjustable side bolsters and thigh support, ensuring comfort even on extended drives. A two-and-a-half-hour journey proved to be effortless, leaving no trace of back or leg fatigue. The ergonomics are quintessential BMW – intuitive and user-friendly, with all controls logically placed and easily accessible. Material quality is undeniably premium, with a particular highlight being the real brushed aluminum trim, which exudes both visual and tactile excellence. While the rear seats are compact, they can comfortably accommodate two average-sized adults for shorter to medium trips. Remarkably, the trunk space is also generous for a car of this size, showcasing BMW’s clever packaging design within the M235i.
The understated elegance of the 2015 M235i‘s styling, especially in this subtle color scheme, is a key attribute. It doesn’t scream for attention, attracting admiring glances primarily from those who recognize its performance pedigree, often fellow BMW enthusiasts. For the most part, it blends into everyday traffic, avoiding unwanted challenges from drivers seeking impromptu races. However, beneath this unassuming exterior lies potent performance capable of surprising those who underestimate it.
Performance and Engine: Unleashing the Power of the TwinPower Turbo I6
Let’s be clear: the 2015 BMW M235i xDrive is a performance powerhouse. Its understated appearance belies its ability to deliver a serious punch, outperforming the vast majority of cars on the road. The heart of this beast is BMW’s 3.0-liter TwinPower Turbo inline-six engine, producing a formidable 320 horsepower and 330 lb-ft of torque. Paired with the slick ZF eight-speed automatic transmission, this powertrain propels the M235i from 0 to 60 mph in approximately 4.4 seconds, reaching an electronically limited top speed of 155 mph. Just a decade prior, this level of performance would have been considered supercar territory, now available in a compact BMW coupe with a six-cylinder engine, practical rear seats, and a usable trunk.
The N55 3.0-liter engine is renowned for its silky smoothness across the rev range. It emits a subtle burble at lower speeds, transitioning into a thrilling, high-pitched howl as the tachometer needle climbs towards redline. The power delivery is akin to a tidal wave, relentlessly pressing you into the seatback, accompanied by an exhilarating soundtrack. Passenger reactions consistently ranged from excited shouts to joyous laughter when experiencing the M235i‘s acceleration firsthand. The accessibility and sheer satisfaction of the performance make it genuinely addictive.
The ZF eight-speed automatic transmission has been lauded repeatedly, and its excellence remains undiminished in the 2015 M235i. Gear changes are executed with crispness and smoothness in upshifts, while paddle-initiated downshifts are instantaneous. It’s a truly exceptional automatic gearbox. In automatic mode, it intelligently selects the optimal gear for any driving situation, regardless of the chosen driving mode. While a manual transmission isn’t offered on xDrive models, its absence is hardly felt. The eight-speed automatic is perfectly matched to the character of the car.
Handling and Steering: Precision and Agility on the Road
A common critique of contemporary BMWs is the diminished steering feel compared to their predecessors. Does the 2015 M235i xDrive offer the richly communicative steering of BMWs past? Not quite. Steering feel is somewhat muted. However, the steering is remarkably direct and precise. This lack of overt feedback doesn’t hinder the ability to place the car accurately on the road; in fact, it’s incredibly easy to maneuver with pinpoint accuracy. Interestingly, Comfort mode provided the most satisfying steering setup. While Sport mode is often the default choice in BMWs, in the M235i xDrive, the steering in Sport mode felt artificially heavy and occasionally a touch twitchy, possibly due to the all-wheel-drive system. Comfort mode, although slightly lighter, offered a more progressive and natural feel, ultimately proving to be the most intuitive and enjoyable. Overall, the 2015 M235i xDrive handles and steers with the precision and poise expected of a BMW, approaching near perfection.
xDrive All-Wheel Drive: Year-Round Performance and Confidence
The inclusion of xDrive all-wheel drive in the 2015 BMW M235i might initially raise eyebrows for those seeking a purely sporty experience. Admittedly, there was initial skepticism about integrating all-wheel drive into a car with such sporting aspirations. However, any reservations were quickly dispelled during the week-long test. The xDrive system operates seamlessly in the background, intervening only when necessary, and its interventions are so subtle as to be virtually imperceptible.
While a rear-wheel-drive configuration might offer a slightly more tail-happy driving experience, the xDrive system in the M235i provides a different kind of thrill. It allows for confident cornering at remarkable speeds, gripping tenaciously and launching out of bends with minimal drama. The M235i is inherently a highly capable car, and xDrive elevates its capabilities even further. It’s genuinely fun to drive aggressively and confidently. In fact, it ranks among the most enjoyable cars experienced. While there may be faster or sharper handling cars available, the 2015 M235i xDrive elicits a broader smile than many others.
Furthermore, the xDrive system transforms the 2015 M235i from a seasonal toy into a practical year-round daily driver. For those living in regions with challenging winter conditions, the xDrive model becomes particularly appealing. While traditionally rear-wheel drive might be the default choice, the effectiveness of the xDrive system is truly convincing.
Final Verdict: The 2015 BMW M235i xDrive – A Resounding Yes
The 2015 BMW M235i xDrive is simply a fantastic car. This may sound like a straightforward declaration, but it’s genuinely felt. Despite potentially deviating from the traditional recipe for a sports coupe with its all-wheel-drive and automatic transmission, the M235i xDrive is immensely fun and remarkably capable. Its year-round usability, combined with reasonably sized rear seats and a practical trunk, further enhances its appeal. The 2015 BMW M235i xDrive is not just a good car; it’s a truly compelling and enjoyable package that might just convert even the staunchest purists to appreciate its unique blend of performance and practicality.
BMW M235i xDrive Ratings:
- Exterior Appeal – 8
- Interior Quality – 8
- Steering Feedback – 8
- Performance – 9
- Handling – 9
- BMWness/Ultimate Driving Machine – 9
- Price Point – 8
Overall Score: 8.4
The 2015 BMW M235i xDrive is a resounding success. It’s a car that defies expectations and delivers a driving experience that is both thrilling and practical. For anyone seeking a sporty coupe that can be enjoyed year-round, the 2015 M235i xDrive deserves serious consideration.
