Best Car Reviews - 2021 BMW 228i Gran Coupe

Introduction

The 2021 BMW 228i Gran Coupe is a captivating blend of sporty aesthetics and sophisticated engineering. Released in the heart of BMW's transition into more compact, urban-friendly designs, this model is aimed at young professionals and city dwellers seeking a premium driving experience. What sets this model apart is its seamless fusion of elegance with performance, backed by BMW's reputable German craftsmanship. Designed to serve as an entry point into the luxury segment, it offers a glimpse into the world of BMW with an attractive price tag.

Design and Exterior Features

The 2021 BMW 228i Gran Coupe features a sleeker, streamlined design, marking a departure from the brand's traditional sedan silhouette towards a more dynamic and sporty appearance. Here are some of its standout exterior highlights:

Sporty Coupé Silhouette: The Gran Coupe features a low roofline that swoops elegantly towards the rear, providing a sporty profile.
Aggressive Front Fascia: Dominated by the signature kidney grille and sharp LED headlights that exude charisma on the road.
Aerodynamic Enhancements: Sculpted lines and creases that improve airflow and convey a sense of movement even when stationary.
Bold Color Options: Available in a variety of engaging colors, like Misano Blue Metallic, which complements its sporty persona.

Interior and Comfort

Step inside the 2021 BMW 228i Gran Coupe, and you are greeted with a cabin that masterfully combines luxury and practicality. The interior is crafted with high-quality materials that underscore its premium appeal. Key features include:

Luxurious Seating: Comfortable and supportive front seats made from soft-touch materials ensure a luxe driving experience.
Driver-Centric Layout: An ergonomically designed dashboard and a multifunctional steering wheel enhance driver focus.
Ambient Lighting: Customizable lighting throughout the cabin, creating an inviting atmosphere.
Generous Cargo Space: Offers ample storage for a car of its size, ideal for urban adventures.

Performance and Handling

Under the hood of the 228i Gran Coupe lies a robust 4-cylinder engine equipped with SIDI technology, offering a spirited driving experience backed by Front-Wheel Drive. This configuration delivers a promising 0 to 100 km/h acceleration in just 6.3 seconds. Here’s what you need to know about its performance:

Engine Output: Turbocharged engine delivering a commendable blend of power and efficiency.
Smooth Transmission: Automatic (S8) ensures seamless gear transitions, enhancing the driving experience.
Efficient Fuel Consumption: Impressive 10.63 L/100 km, ensuring fewer stops at the pump despite its performance capabilities.
Balanced Driving Dynamics: Offers precise handling, making city driving a breeze while maintaining comfort on long highway journeys.

Technology and Connectivity

BMW has equipped the 228i Gran Coupe with cutting-edge technology aimed at enhancing convenience and connectivity. Key innovations include:

Advanced Infotainment System: Centered around a user-friendly interface with a 9.7-inch display.
Bluetooth Connectivity (5.0): Seamless smartphone integration for calls and media streaming.
Driver Assistance Features: Includes adaptive cruise control and lane departure warning for added safety.
Premium Audio System: Delivers crisp sound quality for audiophiles.

Safety Features

Safety is a paramount consideration for BMW, and the 228i Gran Coupe is no exception. The car boasts an array of standard and advanced safety features:

Advanced Airbag System: Comprehensive passive safety features.
Stability Control Systems: Including traction control and electronic brake distribution.
Outstanding Crash Test Ratings: Top marks from various safety assessments.
Rearview Camera and Parking Sensors: Enhance safety during maneuvering and parking.

Pricing and Variants

The base model of the 2021 BMW 228i Gran Coupe is priced competitively in the premium compact market, starting at approximately $37,500 USD. When compared to its competitors, the 228i Gran Coupe presents a compelling value proposition in terms of features, design, and performance.

Pros and Cons

Pros

Stylish and Distinctive Design
Impressive Acceleration and Handling
High-Quality Interior Materials
Wide Array of Advanced Technologies
Competitive Fuel Efficiency

Cons

Limited Rear Seat Space
Premium Gasoline Requirement
Higher Base Price Compared to Some Rivals
Limited All-Wheel Drive Availability
Maintenance Costs Could Be Considerable

Maintenance and Common Issues

The 228i Gran Coupe, like many luxury vehicles, comes with a few maintenance considerations, averaging about $1,000 - $1,200 annually. Common issues reported by owners include:

Electrical system quirks
Turbocharger boost issues
Premature brake wear
Occasional transmission lag
Infotainment software glitches

Rating

Overall, the 2021 BMW 228i Gran Coupe scores an impressive 8.5 out of 10, broken down as follows:

Design: 9/10
Comfort: 8/10
Performance: 8.5/10
Technology: 9/10
Safety: 8/10

User Reviews and Feedback

"The BMW 228i Gran Coupe is a pleasure to drive, especially on winding roads."
"I love the seamless integration of technology; the infotainment system is one of the best I've used."
"The smaller rear seat area can be a bit cramped for taller passengers."
"Fuel efficiency is decent but requires premium gasoline."
"Maintenance has been relatively hassle-free, but the costs add up."

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Summary

The 2021 BMW 228i Gran Coupe is ideally suited for young urban professionals or those looking for an entry into the luxury vehicle market with a strong emphasis on sporty aesthetics and driving pleasure. Its blend of stylish design, robust performance, and advanced technology makes it a compelling choice despite a few minor drawbacks. Overall, the 228i Gran Coupe offers excellent value, embodying the essence of BMW's commitment to luxury and driving excellence.