Baby Bimmer, Big Attitude – The 2025 M235 Gran Coupe

BMW’s smallest saloon might appear to occupy an entry-level slot, but the 2025 M235 Gran Coupe surprises with a lively powertrain and an athletic chassis. Sharing its underpinnings with Mini’s transverse-engine architecture, it stands apart from BMW’s conventional rear-wheel-drive family and delivers strong all-wheel-drive performance from a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine paired with a snappy seven-speed dual-clutch transmission.

Enthusiasts will appreciate the immediate throttle response and crisp gear changes, though there can be a slight lurch when pulling away from a rolling stop. There’s plenty of mid-range shove on tap, driving the M235 forward briskly and placing it in the same performance orbit as other compact four-door performance cars. Handling is eager and precise, with quick steering and abundant grip, despite a suspension set-up that’s firm enough to transmit bumps and potholes rather directly into the cabin.

Inside, the M235’s décor mixes modern displays with flashes of signature M details. Two screens handle virtually all the car’s functions, including air-conditioning adjustments and infotainment controls, though their complex menus sometimes require multiple taps for simple tasks. An optional technology package provides augmented reality navigation, a head-up display and advanced parking aids, yet some might lament the lack of physical buttons for everyday use.

The M235’s larger brake package, along with its well-tuned chassis, supplies confident stopping power and a playful road feel for those enjoying spirited drives. Though rear seating space isn’t especially generous and the roofline slopes down for styling, this Gran Coupe retains practical touches such as easy-access doors and a decent boot. For those seeking a punchy, compact BMW saloon that doesn’t quite conform to the brand’s rear-drive heritage, the M235 Gran Coupe fits the bill—proving that good things can indeed come in small packages.