It’s mid-life update time as BMW lifts the covers off its M235 complete with a new DCT gearbox, chassis improvements and interior changes.
The eagle-eyed amongst you will have noticed that the biggest change is the removal of the letter “i”. Following in the footsteps of its hatchback brother, the M135, BMW has removed the letter from the badge. But that’s hardly exciting now is it? No. In fact, BMW has gone to great lengths to improve on the BMW M235, so much so that it’s stepping into M2 territory.
What’s new about the updated BMW M235 xDrive?
The biggest change comes in the gearbox department. In order to allow for faster, more responsive, more efficient and smoother shifts, BMW has opted to ditch the eight-speed ZF auto in favour of the 7-speed DCT.
On the chassis side of things, the updated BMW M235 benefits from new damper tech (whatever that means in practice), as well more structural rigidity between the chassis itself and the body. This in turn will provide more stability in cornering by reducing body roll. Performance is the order of the day, as BMW hopes the new M235 will be more dynamic than ever. Both the front and rear axles benefit from new wheel bearings and anti-roll bar mounts. At the front, there’s now a locking differential and you also get M Adaptive Suspension as standard.
Sadly, there isn’t any more power from the 300hp, 2.0-litre turbocharged four-pot (no six-cylinders anymore!).
Inside, BMW has given the M235 a proper M car refresh, aligning it closer with the top-end M cars by bringing in the 10.7-inch display over the 10.25-inch. Said bigger screen also comes fitted with the new iDrive 9 system, unlocking new tech features and the ability to test future tech updates. There are also new sports seats in the front, as well as more lighting and fewer buttons in the cabin to give it a more premium feel.
As always, there are a plethora of options for customers to choose from, both on the exterior and interior.
How much does the updated BMW M235 xDrive cost?
Prices for the updated BMW M235 start from £44,435 with deliveries expected in the spring of 2025. As with most BMWs, depreciation is a kicker, particularly with the performance models. My advice? Have a nosey at some of the deals on pre-facelift cars, you’ll be surprised to see almost new cars for under £35k…
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