Exploring cars similar to the BMW 2 Series – Are you in the market for a compact car that combines style, performance, and affordability? Look no further than the BMW 2 Series.
With its sleek design and spirited driving experience, the BMW 2 Series is a favorite among car enthusiasts.
But what if you’re curious about alternatives and competitors to the BMW 2 Series, or perhaps you’re exploring alternatives and competitors in this segment?
We’ve got you covered. In this article, we’ll delve into some cars that share similarities with the BMW 2 Series and might pique your interest.
The BMW 2 Series is available in two body styles: the Coupe and the Gran Coupe. These models offer the same stylish DNA found in their larger siblings.
You have the option of two or four doors, providing flexibility and convenience for various preferences.
The starting prices for the BMW 2 Series models range from $36,600 for the 228i Gran Coupe to $37,235 for the 230i Coupe.
If you’re looking for more power and an all-wheel-drive system, the M240i xDrive starts at $49,500, boasting BMW’s legendary inline six-cylinder engine.
The 228i Gran Coupe is front-wheel drive, while the 230i Coupe is rear-wheel drive, catering to those who enjoy the thrill of a drifter.
Both models are powered by a Twin Scroll Turbocharged inline 4-cylinder engine producing a respectable 255 horsepower.
The 230i Coupe, with its quicker acceleration, can go from zero to 60 in just 5.5 seconds when equipped with an automatic transmission.
On the other hand, the 228i Gran Coupe takes 6.3 seconds to achieve the same feat. These cars offer ample power for confident maneuvering on the highway.
Now, let’s explore some cars like the BMW 2 Series that might catch your eye if you’re in the market for alternatives or competitors in this category:
15 Best Cars Similar to BMW 2 Series: Exploring Alternatives and Competitors
When it comes to finding a car that captures the essence of the BMW 2 Series, you’ll discover a diverse range of options that offer their own unique blend of style, performance, and features.
Whether you’re drawn to the sporty allure of the BMW 2 Series or seeking alternatives and competitors that offer something slightly different, this article will guide you through some exciting choices in the world of cars similar to the BMW 2 Series.
Read also: Cars Similar to BMW 3 Series
1. Alfa Romeo Giulia: A Blend of Beauty and Performance
Alfa Romeo has long been renowned for producing stunning automobiles, and the Giulia lives up to that legacy. Available in four trim levels, the Alfa Romeo Giulia offers a base MSRP of $43,350.
While this price point is comparable to the BMW 2 Series, it’s worth noting that the Giulia falls into the mid-size category, while the BMW is considered a compact car.
One of the standout features of the Alfa Romeo Giulia is its Quadrifoglio trim, which boasts a base MSRP of $80,030.
In this configuration, the Giulia is equipped with a potent 2.9-liter V6 engine that delivers a jaw-dropping 505 horsepower.
This immense power catapults the Giulia from zero to 60 miles per hour in a mere 3.8 seconds, making it a formidable competitor in the performance department.
For those opting for the standard powertrain, the Alfa Romeo Giulia is powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter inline 4-cylinder engine producing 280 horsepower.
This power is efficiently transmitted to the wheels through an eight-speed automatic transmission.
Despite its impressive performance, the Giulia doesn’t sacrifice fuel efficiency, with a respectable fuel mileage of 24 city/33 highway and 27 combined miles per gallon.
Related: Alfa Romeo Giulia vs BMW 2 Series
2. Audi A3 Cabriolet: The Open-Air Alternative
If you’re a fan of open-top driving experiences and are considering cars similar to the BMW 2 Series convertible, the 2019 Audi A3 Cabriolet is an enticing option.
While Audi also offers a four-door A3 sedan and a five-door hatchback model, it’s the A3 Cabriolet that directly competes with the 2 Series convertible.
In terms of size and engine performance, the A3 Cabriolet aligns closely with the 2 Series convertible, making it a worthy rival. Notably, it comes at a more affordable starting price, with a $2,200 difference.
What’s even more appealing is that the A3 Cabriolet includes heated leather seats, Android Auto, and Apple CarPlay as standard features, features that come at an extra cost with the 2 Series.
While the BMW 2 Series convertible may have a power advantage, clocking in at 5.6 seconds for the 0 to 60 sprint, the Audi A3 Cabriolet offers a comfortable and engaging open-air driving experience.
Its front-wheel-drive variant may take a bit longer to reach cruising speed, but it’s a delightful choice for those who relish the wind in their hair.
3. Audi TT: A Timeless Two-Seat Coupe
For those seeking a smaller, more intimate driving experience compared to the BMW 2 Series, the Audi TT presents a compelling option.
The Audi TT is a true two-seat coupe that has maintained its fresh and distinctive appearance for nearly 25 years.
Under the hood, you’ll find a 228-horsepower turbocharged 2.0-liter inline 4-cylinder engine, which sends power to all four wheels.
This setup allows the Audi TT to accelerate from zero to 60 miles per hour in a brisk 5.2 seconds.
Moreover, the Audi TT boasts impressive fuel efficiency, with an estimated mileage of 23 city/30 highway and 26 combined miles per gallon.
The Audi TT is available in both hardtop and convertible configurations, catering to various preferences. The MSRP for the Audi TT coupe starts at $50,500, while the convertible model begins at $54,600.
Related: Cars Similar to Audi TT
4. BMW Z4: The Drop-Top Coupe
While the BMW Z4 may be known for its open-top design, it’s worth noting that this drop-top beauty is also available as a true two-seat coupe.
Priced in a similar range to the 2 Series, the BMW Z4 sDrive30i has an MSRP of $51,500, making it a competitive choice.
This rear-wheel-drive marvel is powered by a TwinTurbo 2.0-liter inline 4-cylinder engine, delivering a spirited 255 horsepower.
The Z4 sDrive30i can accelerate from zero to 60 miles per hour in just 5.2 seconds, promising an exhilarating driving experience.
Despite its performance capabilities, it maintains respectable highway fuel efficiency, achieving 32 miles per gallon.
For those craving even more power and traction, the BMW Z4 M40i steps up with a 3.0-liter inline-six engine pumping out an impressive 382 horsepower.
With all-wheel drive, this model can sprint from zero to 60 in just 3.9 seconds, putting it in the league of high-performance machines.
5. Cadillac CT5: Size, Price, and Power
The Cadillac CT5 presents itself as a compelling option in the world of cars similar to the BMW 2 Series. Comparable in size, price, and power delivery, the CT5 offers a well-rounded package.
The CT5 is available in various trim levels, with prices ranging from $38,690 MSRP for the base CT5 Luxury to $44,390 for the Sport.
All CT5 models share a twin-scroll, turbocharged 2.0-liter inline 4-cylinder engine generating 237 horsepower. Power is directed to the rear wheels via a ten-speed automatic transmission.
The CT5 can accelerate from zero to 60 miles per hour in a respectable 6.6 seconds while maintaining a fuel efficiency of 23 city/33 highway and 27 combined miles per gallon.
For those seeking even more potent performance, the CT5 Premium Luxury offers an optional 3.0-liter Twin Turbo V6, producing 335 horsepower and achieving a swift zero to 60 time of 4.9 seconds.
6. Chevrolet Camaro: American Muscle Icon
The Chevrolet Camaro is an iconic American muscle car that also offers the flexibility of a convertible model.
With a starting price ranging from $26,895 to $43,895 for the high-powered 2SS rear-wheel-drive Coupe with the 6.2-liter V8 engine, the Camaro lineup is both affordable and performance-oriented.
The Camaro offers a variety of engines to suit different preferences. The base engine is a 2.0-liter Turbo, producing 275 horsepower and a zero to 60 time of 5.4 seconds.
There’s also a 3.6-liter V6 engine option, delivering 335 horsepower and achieving the same acceleration time of 5.4 seconds.
For those seeking top-tier performance, the Camaro’s 6.2-liter LT1 V8 engine generates a whopping 455 horsepower, allowing for a rapid zero to 60 sprint in just four seconds.
But the excitement doesn’t end there; an optional supercharger can boost this big-block engine to produce a staggering 650 horsepower, resulting in a zero to 60-time of 3.7 seconds.
7. Infiniti Q60: A Luxurious Hardtop Coupe
The Infiniti Q60 is a stylish hardtop two-door coupe available in six trim levels, with a starting MSRP of $41,750 for the base Q60 Pure.
The Q60 Pure is powered by a 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6 engine, delivering 300 horsepower to the rear wheels via a seven-speed automatic transmission.
While not the quickest car in this lineup, the Q60 can still accelerate from zero to 60 miles per hour in a respectable 5.4 seconds.
For those who crave more power and all-wheel drive, the Q60 Red Sport 400 AWD boasts an impressive 400 horsepower, with a starting MSRP of $60,200.
Fuel efficiency for the Q60 Pure is rated at 19 city/28 highway and 22 combined miles per gallon.
8. Kia Stinger: The Newcomer with a Racing Heart
The Kia Stinger is a relative newcomer to the market that has garnered attention for its dynamic performance and distinctive styling.
With an MSRP of $36,590 for the GT-Line and $51,790 for the more powerful GT2, the Stinger offers a competitive package.
The Stinger GT-Line features a 2.5-liter turbocharged inline 4-cylinder engine producing 300 horsepower.
It can accelerate from zero to 60 miles per hour in a brisk 5.3 seconds. Fuel efficiency with rear-wheel drive is rated at 22 city/32 highway and 25 combined miles per gallon.
For those seeking even more exhilaration, the Stinger GT2 comes equipped with a 3.3-liter twin-turbo V6 engine, delivering an impressive 368 horsepower.
This power plant propels the Stinger from zero to 60 in just 4.7 seconds. Fuel efficiency for the GT2 model is rated at 18 city/25 highway and 20 combined miles per gallon.
9. Lexus RC: A Stylish Coupe with Versatility
The Lexus RC is a four-passenger two-door hardtop coupe available in six trim levels, with options for both rear-wheel drive and all-wheel drive configurations.
The base MSRP for the Lexus RC 300 is $43,895, while the all-wheel-drive variant starts at $52,905.
Under the hood of the RC 300 and RC 300 F Sport, you’ll find a turbocharged 2.0-liter inline 4-cylinder engine that generates 241 horsepower.
This powertrain allows the RC 300 to accelerate from zero to 60 miles per hour in 7.3 seconds.
Despite its performance, it maintains impressive fuel efficiency, achieving 31 highway and 25 combined miles per gallon.
For those seeking a bit more power, the RC 300 AWD and RC 300 F Sport AWD are equipped with a 3.5-liter V6 engine delivering 260 horsepower.
This engine shaves a full second off the acceleration time, allowing the RC 300 to reach 60 miles per hour in 6.3 seconds.
Fuel efficiency for this model remains competitive at 31 highway and 25 combined miles per gallon.
Stepping up to the RC 350 and RC 350 F Sport, you’ll find the same 3.5-liter V6, but it now produces 311 horsepower.
While fuel efficiency is slightly reduced at 26 highway and 22 combined miles per gallon, these models can accelerate from zero to 60 miles per hour in 5.8 seconds with rear-wheel drive and six seconds with all-wheel drive.
Related: Bentley vs Lexus
10. Mazda Miata MX5: The Compact Convertible
The Mazda MX5, also known as the Miata, is a small and nimble coupe offered in three trim levels, each designed to deliver a delightful and open-top driving experience.
The base MSRP for the Mazda Sport is $27,650, with the Grand Touring model starting at $32,650.
All three trims share the same powertrain, featuring an 181-horsepower Skyactiv 2.0-liter inline 4-cylinder engine.
With a manual transmission, the MX5 achieves impressive fuel efficiency, delivering 26 city and 35 highway miles per gallon.
What’s more, this compact convertible can accelerate from zero to 60 miles per hour in a spirited 5.7 seconds. For those who prefer the security of a hardtop, Mazda offers the MX-5 Miata RF.
Priced starting at $35,050, this model retains the same powertrain as its soft-top counterparts while providing the added benefit of a fixed roof, which adds structural stiffness to the vehicle.
11. Mercedes C-Class Coupe: Luxury Meets Performance
The Mercedes C-Class Coupe is a prime example of a four-door coupe, a concept that blends the elegance of a coupe with the practicality of four doors.
With four trim levels to choose from, the C-Class Coupe offers an MSRP range from $38,200 for the CLA 250 Coupe to $55,900 for the AMG version.
The base models feature a 2.0-liter inline four-cylinder engine that produces 221 horsepower and achieves fuel efficiency ratings of 21 city and 29 highway miles per gallon.
However, the top-of-the-line AMG CLA45 Coupe takes performance to the next level, boasting an enhanced 2.0-liter inline four-cylinder engine that generates 302 horsepower and can accelerate from zero to 60 miles per hour in a swift 4.8 seconds.
12. Nissan 370Z: The American Muscle
The 2019 Nissan 370Z follows the classic template of U.S. muscle cars and qualifies as a compelling alternative to the BMW 2 Series.
Priced slightly below the BMW, the 370Z is a small rear-wheel-drive sports coupe available as a convertible.
It features a standard manual transmission, a high-powered trim level, and a dedication to performance.
The top-tier model has been upgraded by Nissan’s NISMO motorsports division, boasting a 350-horsepower naturally aspirated V6 engine, a NISMO suspension, Dunlop high-performance tires, and racing-style seats developed in collaboration with Recaro.
It’s important to note that the 370Z does not have rear seats, impacting its practicality but enhancing its performance-focused nature.
13. Toyota Supra: Racing Spirit Meets Style
The Toyota Supra is a car that exudes a racy appearance and is sure to turn heads wherever it goes.
With four trim levels to choose from, the Supra offers a price range starting at $43,540 for the Supra 2.0 and going up to $63,280 for the A91-CF Edition.
Under the hood of the Supra 2.0, you’ll find a 2.0-liter twin-scroll single-turbocharged inline 4-cylinder engine, generating a respectable 255 horsepower.
Power is sent to the rear wheels through an eight-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters.
The Supra 2.0 delivers a commendable fuel mileage of 25 city and 32 highway miles per gallon. It can accelerate from zero to 60 miles per hour in a quick 5.0 seconds.
For those who crave more power, the next three trims are equipped with a potent 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine, producing an impressive 382 horsepower.
This robust power plant allows the Supra to accelerate from zero to 60 miles per hour in a blistering 3.9 seconds, making it a true performer.
14. Volkswagen Arteon: The Sleek Fastback
The Volkswagen Arteon boasts a distinctive four-door coupe appearance that rivals the BMW Gran Coupe and Coupe models.
Available in three trim levels, this fastback design lends the Arteon a sleek and sophisticated look. The base SE R-Line starts at $40,750, while the top trim SEL Premium R-Line begins at $49,550.
Powering the Arteon is a 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine, delivering a robust 300 horsepower.
This engine provides the Arteon with a zero to 60 miles per hour time of 6.0 seconds. While it may not be the fastest in its class, the Arteon combines style and performance in a unique package.
Its fuel efficiency ratings are 24 city and 34 highway miles per gallon, adding a touch of practicality to its character.
15. Volkswagen Golf GTI: The Compact Fun Machine
While not a four-door coupe or a two-door coupe, the Volkswagen Golf GTI brings a different kind of excitement to the table.
With a starting price of just $29,880 and three trim levels to choose from, the Golf GTI offers one of the most affordable options on our list.
Under the hood of the Golf GTI is a standard turbocharged 2.0-liter inline four-cylinder engine, packing a punch with 241 horsepower.
This powerplant allows the sub-$30,000 compact to accelerate from zero to 60 in a sprightly 5.1 seconds.
What’s more, the Golf GTI boasts impressive fuel economy figures of 28 city, 36 highways, and 31 combined miles per gallon.
FAQs
Is it worth buying a BMW 2 Series?
Yes, the BMW 2 Series is a stylish and sporty alternative to competitors like the Audi A3 saloon and the Mercedes A-Class hatchback.
It offers an enjoyable driving experience, a variety of engine options to suit different budgets and a relatively practical and well-built interior.
Why is the BMW 2 Series so cheap?
Used BMWs can be relatively affordable due to several factors. They can be costly to repair, there’s a saturated used BMW market, they tend to have low residual values, and they face competition from new BMWs with pricing incentives.
While they may be affordable in their used state, buyers should carefully consider the total cost of ownership.
Is the BMW 2 Series reliable?
The 2023 BMW 2 Series has a predicted reliability score of 85 out of 100, indicating it is considered reliable.
In J.D. Power’s rating system, a score of 91-100 is the best, 81-90 is great, 70-80 is average, and 0-69 is considered fair and below average.
How many miles can a BMW 2 Series last?
With proper care, a BMW can last between 150,000 to 200,000 miles. If you drive the national average of 13,500 miles per year, you can expect to enjoy your BMW for 10 to 15 years, according to MotorAsk.
Regular maintenance and responsible driving habits play a significant role in the longevity of any vehicle.
Final Thoughts: BMW 2 Series Competitors
In conclusion, when it comes to exploring cars similar to the BMW 2 Series, there’s a diverse world of options waiting to be discovered.
From the sporty allure of the Toyota Supra to the sleek elegance of the Volkswagen Arteon and the compact fun factor of the Volkswagen Golf GTI, these alternatives and competitors each bring their own unique character to the table.
Whether you prioritize style, performance, or affordability, there’s a car among these options to match your automotive desires.
The BMW 2 Series has its distinct charm, but these vehicles offer a wide spectrum of choices for those seeking a car that resonates with their individual preferences and budget.
So, as you embark on your quest to find the perfect vehicle, consider exploring these alternatives to the BMW 2 Series.
Whether it’s spirited performance, eye-catching design, or practicality you’re after, the world of cars similar to the BMW 2 Series has something for everyone.
