The 2 Series also suffers from a less-than-popular image due to the Active Tourer, a model that can hardly be described as sporty. 

I had my reservations as well. It’s not an M2. Is it really more than just a 1 Series in a coupé-style body?
But after actually spending time with it, I can’t put it any other way: the BMW 220 Gran Coupé is a surprisingly fun car.

Yes, it shares a lot with the 1 Series. But that’s hardly a downside.
It also sits in exactly the same segment as the Mercedes CLA and targets the same audience: drivers looking for something sporty, stylish and compact, without immediately stepping up to a larger — and more expensive — mid-size saloon.

So the question isn’t whether it’s different from a classic BMW — it is — but whether it’s good enough as a daily driver in this segment.

What exactly is the BMW 220 Gran Coupé?

BMW launched the 2 Series Gran Coupé as a sporty four-door coupé positioned below the 3 Series. It shares its platform with the 1 Series and clearly focuses on design, dynamics and everyday usability — a winning formula that has proven very successful for Mercedes and Audi.

The 220 version I drove produces 170 horsepower and is paired with an automatic transmission. No M model, no extreme performance — but a setup that perfectly matches what most people actually need. 

What’s good about the BMW 220 Gran Coupé?

✔️ Driving & handling

Le'ts start with the most important part: driving

The 220 Coupe just drive ... great.

The steering feels great — sharp without being nervous — and the car is easy to place in corners. The automatic gearbox shifts quickly and intuitively, contributing to a relaxed yet engaging driving experience.

With 170 horsepower, there’s more than enough power. It pulls strongly, even during overtaking manoeuvres, and never feels underpowered. No, this isn’t a supercar experience — but as a daily driver, it’s more than sufficient and genuinely enjoyable. 

✔️ Sportiness with plenty of comfort

The suspension isn’t the softest, but that’s not a downside. It perfectly suits the sporty character of the Gran Coupé.

You do feel it on rough roads, but never in a way that’s annoying or uncomfortable. This is clearly a deliberate choice by BMW: a bit more dynamism, a bit less float.

It remains comfortable enough for long motorway journeys, and on winding roads its character really comes to life.

And let’s be honest… it looks great. It almost feels like a mini M4 — and that’s meant as a compliment.

✔️ Interior & finish

The interior is nice, modern and very BMW.

The steering wheel is a real highlight: well-shaped, great to hold, and perfectly matched to the car’s sporty feel. It's actually nicer than the one in my X5 ... 

Is the interior nicer than that of a CLA?

To be fair: no. Mercedes is still a step ahead in terms of overall quality and style. But I'm sure that's down to personal preference too.

But that doesn’t mean BMW falls short. Everything feels solid, logically laid out and easy to use. Less show, more functional quality.

Downsides of the BMW 220 Gran Coupe

❌ Rear seats

As you’d expect from a coupé-style four-door, the rear seats aren’t particularly spacious.

It’s perfectly fine for short distances, but longer journeys with adults in the back aren’t ideal.

This comes as no surprise and isn’t a dealbreaker — just something to keep in mind.

❌ Boot capacity

The boot space is on the small side with 360 - 430L. The shape of the boot doesn't help. 

But, once again it's normal for this type of car. If you're looking to carry luggage, there are more practical options out there. 

❌ Not the most comfortable in its class

Even though it is relatively comfortable, there are better options available. Don't expect an air suspension quality ride. 

If that's what you're looking for, you might want to consider upgrading to a 3-series BMW. Although there is quite a big price jump of at least 10k.  Instead, you might want to have a look at the Mercedes CLA .

Conclusion

The BMW 220 Gran Coupé is a genuinely pleasant surprise.

It’s fun to drive, looks great, and feels like a car that’s been thoughtfully put together — every single day.

Sure, the interior isn't as nice as a CLA's.

And yes, it's not the roomiest of cars. 

But if you're looking for a fun drive? This is a very good option. 

In that case, the BMW 220 Gran Coupé is absolutely a very strong contender. Pricing is quite fair and in line with its competitors. Especially as a company car, it could easily become a very attractive option.Dan is de BMW 220 Gran Coupé absoluut een zeer sterke kandidaat. Prijzen zijn behoorlijk fair en vergelijkbaar met de concurrenten. Zeker als leasewagen kan dit zomaar een interessante optie worden. 

I’d recommend it without hesitation to anyone shopping in this segment — especially alongside the CLA. In the end, it comes down to taste: more of a luxury feel, or more driving pleasure.

And for me?

This BMW did exactly what I hoped it would do: surprise me in a very positive way!