BMW 2 Series

The 2 series in brief

The 2 series name emerged in 2014 when BMW gave the 1 series coupé and convertible their own model designation. The coupé (F22) and convertible (F23) have rear-wheel drive and are geared towards driving pleasure, while the Active Tourer (F45), introduced the same year, was the first front-wheel-drive BMW designed for families. In 2015, it was joined by the seven-seater Gran Tourer (F46).

The second generation wave arrived in 2019–2022: the four-door Gran Coupé (F44, front-wheel drive), the new coupé (G42, rear-wheel drive), and the new Active Tourer (U06). So, when buying a used 2 series, it's crucial to decide which body style you need—a sporty coupé or a practical hatchback.

In the Lithuanian used market, you'll mostly find the F45 Active Tourer and the F22 coupé. The sportiest versions are the M235i, M240i, and the standalone model, the BMW M2.

Which generation to choose?

F22 coupé (2014–2021) — a compact, rear-wheel-drive car that handles well. The 2017 facelift brought new, often LED headlights, an improved interior, and a better infotainment system. The G42 coupé (from 2021) is larger, more modern, and stands out with its new design, but it's still considerably pricier in the used market.

F45 Active Tourer (2014–2021) — a taller, spacious, and practical front-wheel-drive car; the longer Gran Tourer seats seven. The model was refreshed in 2018. The U06 Active Tourer (from 2022) features a large curved screen, some engines with a mild-hybrid system, and plug-in hybrids, but the manual gearbox is no more.

F44 Gran Coupé (from late 2019) — a four-door sedan with front-wheel drive, technically close to the F40 1 Series. It's ideal for those who want a compact BMW sedan but don't necessarily need rear-wheel drive.

Engines and gearboxes

F22 coupés are most commonly found with 218i (1.5 l, three-cylinder), 220i, and 230i (2.0 l) petrol engines, as well as 218d, 220d, and 225d diesel engines. The M235i had a 3.0 l six-cylinder engine (326 hp), replaced in 2016 by the M240i (340 hp). The G42 offers 220i, 230i, 220d, and M240i xDrive (374 hp).

F45 Active Tourers are most popular with 216i and 218i (1.5 l), 220i (2.0 l), diesel 216d, 218d, and 220d, plus the plug-in hybrid 225xe. The U06 range is anchored by 218i, 220i, 218d, and 220d, along with plug-in hybrids 225e and 230e xDrive.

Transmissions: F22 and F45 models come with a 6-speed manual or automatic gearbox (rear-wheel-drive cars have an 8-speed Steptronic). Front-wheel-drive petrol cars from around 2018 often feature a 7-speed dual-clutch gearbox. G42 and U06 models offer only automatic transmissions.

What to check when buying a used 2 Series

Early F22 models with 2.0-litre petrol (N20) and diesel (N47) engines were known for timing chain issues — a cold engine shouldn't rattle. For diesel automatics that have done a lot of city driving, check the diesel particulate filter (DPF) and EGR valve.

The three-cylinder 1.5-litre engines run a bit noisier and with slight vibration — that's normal, but it shouldn't get worse. Test the dual-clutch gearbox by moving off and driving slowly in traffic: juddering or hesitation could indicate a need for repair.

Most BMWs have reinforced sidewalls on their tyres, allowing you to drive on them even when flat — they're stiffer, so assess the driving comfort and tyre condition. The Active Tourer is often a family car, so thoroughly inspect the interior and check the service history.

Trim levels (equipment lines)

BMW trim levels are called lines; their names and equipment vary by body style, market, and year.

F22 and F45 line comparison

The Active Tourer with the 218i or 218d engine and Sport Line or Luxury Line trim will be most beneficial for families. If driving pleasure is paramount, opt for the rear-wheel-drive coupé, ideally post-2017 facelift.

Frequently asked questions