2026 BMW M235 xDrive Gran Coupe Review: Price, Specs, and Why It’s the Best Small Sport Sedan

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Introduction – A Breath of Fresh Air in a World of SUVs and EVs

In today’s car market, the sport sedan is an endangered species. Walk into a dealership, and you’ll be greeted by a sea of high-riding SUVs, sleek crossovers, and increasingly, battery-powered EVs. They dominate the sales charts, but for enthusiasts, these vehicles can feel like they’re missing something vital: the tactile thrill of an internal combustion engine, the intimate connection between driver and machine, and the dynamic handling only a low-slung chassis can deliver.

BMW has long been a champion of the driver’s car, but even they have shifted much of their lineup toward SUVs and electrification. That’s why the 2026 BMW M235 xDrive Gran Coupe is so refreshing. It’s not an SUV, it’s not an EV—it’s a compact, performance-focused sport sedan designed to make your heart race. It represents BMW’s commitment to keeping that spark alive in a market that seems to be moving in the opposite direction.

The second-generation M235 comes to us as a heavily updated successor to the previous model, addressing many of the complaints leveled at its predecessor. Harsh ride? Softer now, without losing its edge. Clumsy transmission? Replaced with a slick 7-speed dual-clutch. Vague steering? Sharper and more communicative this time around. On paper, it sounds like BMW has listened to the critics—and then gone a step further.

But this car isn’t just about fixing the past—it’s about reminding us that sport sedans can still thrive in 2026. With a potent 312-hp turbocharged engine, adaptive suspension, and the kind of road manners that reward spirited driving, the M235 xDrive delivers a package that’s as usable in daily life as it is thrilling on a backroad.

The question is—does it do enough to lure enthusiasts away from rival offerings like the Audi S3, Mercedes-AMG CLA35, and Acura Integra Type S? Let’s find out.

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Design and Styling – Beauty or Beast?

Beauty is subjective, but the M235 Gran Coupe’s design might divide opinions more than most BMWs. Built on BMW’s UKL2 platform (shared with the Mini Countryman), the M235 inherits front-wheel-drive-based proportions that are difficult to disguise. Its long front overhang, tall hood, and stubby rear deck don’t exactly scream classic BMW elegance. From certain angles, the car looks nose-heavy, a trait some enthusiasts may find off-putting.

That said, BMW has worked hard to give the M235 visual aggression. The front fascia is dominated by large air intakes and a gloss-black grille, flanked by sharp LED headlights. While the kidney grille has been controversial in other BMW models, here it’s more proportionate. The side profile benefits from sculpted character lines and frameless doors, adding a coupe-like touch to the four-door layout. At the rear, quad exhaust tips and a subtle lip spoiler hint at the performance beneath the surface.

One standout feature of our test car was the 19-inch M Performance wheels, part of the $2,550 package. These fill the wheel arches perfectly and lend a muscular stance that makes the car look planted even when stationary. Paired with Brooklyn Grey Metallic paint, the combination delivers an understated yet purposeful look.

It’s also worth noting that while the styling may not win over everyone, it does communicate intent—this is a sport sedan, not a commuter appliance. The lower ride height, the wider track, the M badges—they all signal that the M235 means business.

If you can look past its less-than-perfect proportions, there’s a certain charm to its no-nonsense, functional aesthetic. It’s not trying to be a rolling piece of art like an Alfa Romeo Giulia—it’s designed to perform, and much of its styling serves that purpose.

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Engine and Performance – Small Sedan, Big Punch

Under the hood of the 2026 BMW M235 xDrive Gran Coupe lies one of its biggest selling points: a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine tuned to produce 312 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque. On paper, that’s a modest bump over the outgoing model’s 301 horsepower, but BMW’s engineers have made changes that translate into real-world benefits.

The M235 launches with authority, hitting 0–60 mph in just 4.4 seconds—a notable improvement over the previous generation’s 4.8 seconds. Power delivery is smooth yet urgent, with peak torque arriving at just 2,000 rpm and holding strong through the mid-range. This gives the car excellent punch both off the line and during highway passing maneuvers.

But raw numbers only tell part of the story. The M235 feels lively in a way that some turbocharged engines don’t. The exhaust note has a playful growl under load, accompanied by the whoosh of the turbo and the occasional blow-off hiss when lifting off the throttle. It’s not obnoxiously loud, but there’s enough character to keep the driver engaged.

One of the most satisfying aspects of the M235’s performance is its traction. Despite its power output, there’s virtually no wheelspin thanks to BMW’s xDrive all-wheel-drive system. This means you can exploit the car’s full potential without worrying about torque steer or wasted power.

Whether you’re darting through city traffic, carving up a mountain road, or merging onto the freeway, the M235 delivers a balance of speed, responsiveness, and composure that feels genuinely rewarding. It’s a small sedan with a big personality, and that’s exactly what BMW set out to achieve.

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Transmission and Driving Modes – Engaging the Driver

The previous M235i xDrive used an 8-speed automatic transmission that, while competent, often felt a step behind the driver’s intentions. For 2026, BMW has swapped it for a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic (DCT), and the difference is transformative.

The DCT is quick, crisp, and more connected to the engine’s character. Upshifts are snappy, downshifts are rev-matched and accompanied by a satisfying throttle blip, and there’s no hesitation when you ask for more power. In full automatic mode, it’s smooth enough for daily driving, but the magic really happens when you take control via the steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters.

One standout feature is M Sport Boost—hold the left paddle for more than a second, and the transmission drops to the lowest possible gear while sharpening throttle response and steering weight. It’s like pressing a “fun” button. For 10 seconds, the car feels more alert, more aggressive, and more eager to attack a twisty stretch of road. It’s perfect for those moments when you spot an inviting corner ahead and want maximum engagement without fiddling with drive mode menus.

Speaking of drive modes, the M235 offers multiple presets ranging from fuel-efficient Comfort to aggressive Sport. Each mode adjusts throttle mapping, shift points, suspension damping, and steering weight. The adaptability means the M235 can be a refined commuter during the week and a canyon-carving machine on the weekend.

This flexibility is part of what makes the M235 so appealing. It’s not a hardcore track weapon that becomes unbearable in traffic, nor is it a soft luxury sedan that loses its edge in spirited driving. It’s a blend—one that puts driver involvement at the center.

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Handling and Ride Quality – BMW DNA on the Road

BMW has always been synonymous with engaging handling, but the first-generation M235i Gran Coupe didn’t fully live up to that reputation. Its suspension tuning was overly harsh, transmitting every road imperfection to the cabin, while steering feel was muted. For 2026, BMW’s engineers have clearly gone back to the drawing board.

The Adaptive M suspension now strikes a far better balance between comfort and control. In Comfort mode, it soaks up smaller bumps and imperfections with ease, making the car genuinely pleasant for daily commuting. Switch to Sport mode, and the suspension firms up, reducing body roll without becoming punishing. Large impacts can still be felt, but they’re no longer jarring or fatiguing.

Steering feel is another area of significant improvement. The M235 now delivers precise, predictable inputs with just enough weight to feel connected without being heavy. The front end communicates grip levels clearly, giving the driver confidence to push harder.

Speaking of grip, the M235 wears Goodyear Eagle F1 Supersport tires that deliver excellent traction both in the dry and wet. Combined with xDrive all-wheel drive, the car feels planted and secure even in aggressive cornering. On the skidpad, it achieves 0.94 g of lateral acceleration—on par with performance-focused rivals.

Braking performance is equally impressive. The M Compound brakes are strong, fade-resistant, and easy to modulate, bringing the car from 60 mph to a stop in just 106 feet. Whether on the street or track, this braking setup inspires confidence.

In short, BMW has restored much of the “ultimate driving machine” feel to the M235. It’s agile, surefooted, and—most importantly—fun.

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Interior and Comfort – A Driver’s Space

Step inside the 2026 BMW M235 xDrive Gran Coupe and you’re greeted with a cabin that blends sportiness with modern luxury. The design is unmistakably BMW, with a driver-focused layout that places all major controls within easy reach. M-branded details—like contrast stitching in BMW’s signature blue and red colors, subtle “M” badges on the seats, and an ambient light strip in matching shades—remind you that you’re in something special.

The front seats, upholstered in M Alcantara, strike a great balance between comfort and support. They hug you in place during spirited driving yet remain comfortable enough for long highway trips. Adjustable bolsters and lumbar support help tailor the seating position, and the low-slung driving posture enhances the feeling of being in a true performance car.

Rear-seat space is, admittedly, tight. Legroom is less generous than in rivals like the Audi A3, and taller passengers will find headroom limited due to the sloping roofline. That said, for short trips or younger passengers, the rear seats work fine.

Practicality isn’t forgotten. The trunk offers 13.8 cubic feet of cargo space, which is more than most in this segment. The dual-level cargo floor is a clever touch—use the lower compartment for tools or cleaning supplies and keep the main space clutter-free. A small netted side pocket prevents smaller items from rolling around, showing BMW’s attention to detail.

Material quality is excellent in most areas—soft-touch surfaces, brushed aluminum accents, and high-quality plastics dominate. However, the center console area, where the gear selector and other controls sit, feels less premium than expected for the price.

Overall, the interior manages to feel both purposeful and premium. It’s a space that encourages spirited driving while still being comfortable enough to live with every day.

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Technology and Infotainment – High-Tech Meets High-Speed

BMW equips the M235 with a 10.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 10.7-inch central infotainment display running the brand’s latest Operating System 9. The graphics are sharp, colors vibrant, and transitions smooth. The driver display changes themes depending on the selected driving mode, adding an extra layer of immersion.

Navigation is crisp and easy to follow, with real-time traffic updates. Smartphone integration via Apple CarPlay and Android Auto is wireless and seamless, and the available premium Harman Kardon sound system delivers clear, powerful audio.

One notable omission? The iDrive control knob. Once a BMW hallmark, it’s been removed in favor of a fully touch-based interface. While the screen is responsive, fingerprints accumulate quickly, and there’s minimal wrist support for precise selections while driving. This means you’ll sometimes need to glance away from the road longer than ideal.

Climate controls are also integrated into the screen—another controversial move. While it looks clean, it’s less intuitive than physical buttons, especially when you want to make quick adjustments on the move.

On the plus side, BMW’s ambient lighting system is among the best in the business, with customizable colors and brightness levels that enhance the cabin’s mood at night. The head-up display, included in the Premium Package, is bright and easy to read even in direct sunlight, showing speed, navigation, and driver assistance information.

In short, the M235’s tech package is modern, comprehensive, and visually impressive, but it sacrifices a bit of BMW’s traditional ergonomics for style.

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Safety Features – Confidence Behind the Wheel

BMW equips the M235 xDrive Gran Coupe with a robust suite of driver-assistance technologies, available through the optional Driving Assistance Professional package. This includes adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and traffic jam assist. The lane keeping system is well-tuned—rather than aggressively tugging at the wheel, it gently guides the car back into the lane, making it feel more natural.

The 360-degree camera system with 3D visualization is a highlight. Not only does it offer a crystal-clear image, but it also shows a real-time rendering of the car, complete with open-door indicators to avoid dings in tight parking spaces. The parking sensors are precise, and the system overlays guiding lines to help you perfectly position the car.

Automatic emergency braking, pedestrian detection, and rear cross-traffic alert come standard, adding extra layers of protection. The optional Technology package further enhances convenience with features like a self-parking function and advanced navigation aids.

In real-world use, these systems work smoothly in the background, rarely intruding unless genuinely needed. It’s a thoughtful approach that keeps the driver engaged without overwhelming them with constant warnings.

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Fuel Economy and Efficiency – Power with Practicality

Performance cars aren’t usually praised for their fuel economy, but the M235 delivers respectable numbers thanks to its efficient turbocharged engine and 7-speed DCT. The EPA rates it at 24 mpg city, 33 mpg highway, and 27 mpg combined.

In mixed driving, it’s realistic to achieve close to these figures, especially if you spend more time cruising than launching off the line. On the highway, the DCT keeps revs low at cruising speeds, helping the car sip fuel while maintaining a quick response when you need to pass.

Compared to rivals, the M235 sits in the middle—less efficient than the Audi A3’s 2.0T but more frugal than the more powerful AMG CLA35. For buyers who want performance without constant fuel station visits, it’s a solid balance.

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Pricing and Value – Worth the Premium?

The 2026 BMW M235 xDrive Gran Coupe starts at $50,675, but our well-optioned test car came to $59,425. This includes extras like the M Performance package, Premium package, Technology package, and various smaller add-ons—yes, even a $200 heated steering wheel and $100 interior camera.

Compared to its direct rivals, the M235 is pricier than an Audi S3 and Acura Integra Type S when similarly equipped. However, it offers a distinct BMW driving character and a more refined all-wheel-drive system than some competitors.

The real question is whether buyers see value in paying for that BMW badge and the driving experience that comes with it. For enthusiasts, the answer may be yes. For value-focused shoppers, the competition is tempting.

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Strengths and Weaknesses – The Honest Breakdown

Like any performance sedan, the 2026 BMW M235 xDrive Gran Coupe isn’t perfect, but it delivers plenty to love.

Strengths:

• Engaging performance – The 2.0L turbo engine and 7-speed DCT deliver thrilling acceleration and crisp gear changes.

• Improved ride quality – Adaptive M suspension smooths out daily drives without sacrificing cornering precision.

• Excellent grip and braking – Goodyear Eagle F1 Supersport tires and M Compound brakes inspire confidence on both street and track.

• Premium cabin details – M Alcantara seats, ambient lighting, and digital displays create a sporty yet upscale atmosphere.

• Strong safety tech – Optional Driving Assistance Professional package offers well-calibrated aids without over-intrusion.

Weaknesses:

• Polarizing styling – Front-heavy proportions won’t appeal to everyone.

• Tight rear seat space – Not ideal for tall passengers or frequent long-distance rear-seat use.

• High cost of options – Add-ons push the price well into luxury territory, competing with larger, more powerful sedans.

• Touch-based controls – Loss of physical buttons for climate and infotainment affects usability.

In short, the M235 nails driving engagement but still carries a few ergonomic and value-related compromises.

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Competitor Comparison – How the M235 Stacks Up

Mercedes-AMG CLA35 4Matic

• More flamboyant styling and slightly sharper lateral grip (0.97 g).

• Similar 0–60 mph performance (4.4 seconds).

• Pricier in top trims and a firmer ride in daily use.

Audi S3

• More understated design and slightly more interior space.

• Starts cheaper, but lacks the same steering feel and suspension tuning finesse as the BMW.

• Slightly less dramatic performance personality.

Acura Integra Type S

• Manual transmission option for purists.

• Roomier rear seats and generous standard equipment.

• Not as refined in cabin quality, but more affordable when fully loaded.

The BMW sits right in the sweet spot for buyers prioritizing driving feel over ultimate value or space.

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Who Should Buy the 2026 BMW M235 xDrive Gran Coupe?

This car is for drivers who:

• Want a compact luxury sedan that still feels like a true performance car.

• Value all-weather traction thanks to xDrive AWD.

• Appreciate the finer things—premium materials, advanced tech—without jumping to a full M car.

• Can live with a slightly smaller back seat in exchange for sharper handling.

It’s not for buyers seeking maximum rear legroom, absolute bargain pricing, or minimalist tech.

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Verdict – The Antidote to the Ordinary

In a market dominated by SUVs and silent electric powertrains, the 2026 BMW M235 xDrive Gran Coupe stands out as a genuine driver’s machine. It’s fast, agile, and loaded with personality. BMW has addressed the rough edges of the previous generation, delivering a sport sedan that’s as enjoyable to commute in as it is to take on a backroad blast.

Yes, it’s expensive—especially with options—and its styling may split opinions. But for those who value driving engagement above all else, it offers something rare in today’s automotive landscape: a compact, premium sport sedan that refuses to blend in.

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2026 BMW M235 xDrive Gran Coupe Specifications

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FAQs

1. Is the 2026 BMW M235 xDrive Gran Coupe worth its price?
If you value performance, premium build quality, and BMW’s driving dynamics, it’s worth considering. Just be aware that well-equipped models approach $60k.

2. How does it handle compared to the previous generation?
The 2026 model has better ride compliance, sharper steering, and improved suspension tuning, making it more enjoyable both daily and in spirited driving.

3. Can the M235 be used as a family car?
It can, but rear legroom is tight. It’s best suited for couples or small families with younger kids.

4. Is the fuel economy decent for a performance car?
Yes—27 mpg combined is respectable for a 312-hp sport sedan with AWD.

5. What are the main rivals to consider?
The Audi S3, Mercedes-AMG CLA35, and Acura Integra Type S are the closest competitors in performance, size, and price.

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