2020 BMW M235i xDrive Gran Coupe | Manufacturer image
Mercedes-Benz has redesigned its entry-level CLA-Class sedan for 2020, and rival BMW has a brand-new one. We got up close to the 2020 BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe at the 2019 Los Angeles Auto Show … and were not impressed. Will its price help sway us? Nope. The Gran Coupe starts at $38,495, higher than its Mercedes competition (all prices include a $995 destination charge).
The base price is for the entry 228i xDrive version, which uses a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder that makes 228 horsepower. M235i xDrive models use a 301-hp, turbocharged 2.0-liter four and start at $46,495. Both models pair with an eight-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive is standard. In contrast, base models of the front-drive 2020 Mercedes-Benz CLA 250 start at $37,645; all-wheel drive models start at $39,645.
Standards on the base 228i xDrive model include the Active Driving Assistant Package (lane departure warning, pedestrian detection with automatic braking, front collision warning with crash prevention, blind spot detection, rear cross-traffic alert, rear collision mitigation and speed limit information), power front sport seats, Park Distance Control, Satin Aluminum exterior trim and the iDrive multimedia system with an 8.8-inch display, navigation and Apple CarPlay compatibility with a one-year free trial.
The M235i xDrive model adds M-specific brakes, steering and suspension components, plus keyless entry, interior ambient lighting, a specific front-axle limited-slip differential, an aerodynamic body kit and Shadowline exterior trim.
Production for the 2020 BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe began in November, and the model will go on sale in March.
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Jennifer Geiger
News Editor Jennifer Geiger joined the automotive industry in 2003, much to the delight of her Corvette-obsessed dad. Jennifer is an expert reviewer, certified car-seat technician and mom of three. She wears a lot of hats — many of them while driving a minivan.