Is BMW’s ‘entry-level’ M car a true performance beast, or just a badge grab? We spent a week with the 2025 BMW M235 xDrive Gran Coupe to find out! From its surprising 312 hp to its track-worthy composure, this compact sedan packs a punch. But does it truly live up to the legendary M status? You might be surprised by what we discovered.
The 2025 BMW M235 xDrive Gran Coupe emerges as a compelling contender within BMW’s renowned M performance division, despite often being characterized as an “entry-level” offering. This latest iteration challenges preconceptions, asserting its right to wear the coveted M badge by delivering a driving experience that skillfully blends exhilarating performance with everyday usability, making it a significant subject for a comprehensive BMW M235 review.
Under the hood, this compact luxury sports sedan boasts a potent 2-liter twin-turbo four-cylinder engine, generating an impressive 312 horsepower. Mated to a responsive 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, the powertrain propels the 2025 BMW M235 xDrive from 0 to 60 mph in a swift 4.7 seconds. This remarkable output from a four-pot engine underscores BMW’s engineering prowess, demonstrating that fewer cylinders do not necessarily equate to diminished BMW performance car credentials.
On the road, the M235 xDrive truly embodies the “Ultimate Driving Machine” ethos. Its sophisticated computer wizardry, governing traction control and stability systems, ensures a consistently composed and confidence-inspiring ride. Whether navigating spirited back roads or cruising on mundane highway stretches, the vehicle exhibits the planted demeanor and refined bump absorption expected from any larger, more expensive BMW M-Car, proving it is a genuine luxury sports sedan.
Beyond its engaging performance, the M235 also offers a commendable level of efficiency, a practical benefit of its advanced four-cylinder powerplant. Achieving an estimated 27 combined miles per gallon, with the potential for even higher figures in eco mode, it strikes an appealing balance for daily commuters and enthusiasts alike who appreciate spirited driving without excessive fuel consumption.
Positioned at the more accessible end of the M-Car spectrum, the 2025 BMW M235 xDrive Gran Coupe starts at a reasonable $49,500. While options can elevate the final price, a well-equipped model, including a Technology Package, heated steering wheel, and other conveniences, still represents a significant value proposition in the performance sedan segment, with a total as-tested price hovering around $59,175.
In the competitive landscape of compact luxury sports sedans, the M235 faces formidable rivals. Direct competitors such as the Acura Integra Type S, offering 320 horsepower and a six-speed manual for a starting price of $52,900, and the more powerful, albeit pricier, Mercedes-AMG C 43 sedan with 416 horsepower at $62,500, present intriguing alternatives. Each offers a unique blend of attributes, but the M235 holds its own with distinct BMW character.
While the overall package of the 2025 BMW M235 xDrive Gran Coupe is undeniably strong, minor criticisms emerge regarding its infotainment system and interior controls, which can occasionally be less intuitive than desired. These aspects, however, are often subjective and may not deter those deeply committed to the BMW brand and the unparalleled driving dynamics that define an automotive technology leader like BMW. Ultimately, for the enthusiast prioritizing the iconic BMW roundel and a high-performance experience within a more modest budget, the M235 remains a highly compelling choice.
