The BMW X1, M240i and M2 Named to Car and Driver’s 10Best List

We loved the M235i (now the M240i) and gushed over the M2. But however C&D can name the X1 to its 10Best list while leaving out other BMW products which are decidedly better is beyond us. While the X1 is quite good it lacks the driver involvement of the previous version. However the new 7 Series is an incredible achievement that gives the brand a real contender in the luxury sedan race. And the revised 3 Series has righted many of the wrongs that got it kicked of the list just a few years ago.
Official Release: The BMW X1 receives Car and Driver’s first-ever 10Best Truck and SUV for 2017 in the Subcompact Luxury SUV category. The BMW M2 and the BMW M240i make the annual Car and Driver’s 10Best list of the best automobiles for sale in the U.S. BMW will accept the awards at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit, January 2017.
Although the 10Best award has been issued for over three decades, the 10Best Trucks and SUVs is a new addition to the yearly Car and Driver evaluation and BMW is pioneering in this first-ever category with the new BMW X1. The 2.0-liter TwinPower Turbo 4-cylinder engine from BMW’s new family of modular engines with maximum output of 228 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque, makes the new BMW X1 the most powerful entry model in the segment. An efficiency-optimized version of the BMW xDrive intelligent all-wheel-drive system and newly developed chassis technology all help to enhance driving dynamics and ride comfort compared to the outgoing model. The all-new BMW X1 also showcases its exceptional versatility with increased cargo area and greater interior room with more headroom than before.
The interior offers harmonious balance between driver focus and elegance befitting the classic style of a BMW Sports Activity Vehicle. The iDrive operating system’s Control Display comes in the form of a high resolution 6.5-inch or, optionally, 8.8-inch freestanding display screen. The interior trim and accent strip extend through the door panel trim, with the effect that occupants in all seats are surrounded by premium surfaces with a uniform material and color structure. Standard interior features include: Power front seats with driver-side memory, standard power tailgate, Anthracite headliner, storage package and multifunction sport leather steering wheel.
The optional 360-watt Harman Kardon HiFi system, complete with 12 loudspeakers, provide an outstanding audio experience. Innovative connectivity featuring a standard 6.5 inch infotainment system with optional enhanced USB and Bluetooth plus Smartphone integration, Adaptive Cruise Control and Active Driving Assistant including forward collision warning with automatic braking capability.
The BMW X1 is available at US dealers starting at $33,100 plus D&H. For more information please visit bmwusanews.com.
The BMW M GmbH latest member of its product family, the first ever BMW M2, joins the M235i (2015; 2016) and M240i as Car and Driver 10Best winner, which makes the BMW 2 Series a 3 times consecutive victor. The vehicle combines top sporting prowess and classic rear-wheel drive with the precision and agility of a modern M automobile. Characteristic front and rear aprons optimize air flow and aerodynamics. With an output of 365 hp at 6,500 rpm and maximum revs of 7,000 rpm this all-new BMW M2 is more powerful than its predecessor: the iconic BMW 1 Series M Coupe. The 3.0-liter 6-cylinder inline engine’s peak torque also leads the way; a full 343 lb-ft is on tap between 1,400 and 5,560 rpm, with the overboost function raising this figure to 369 lb-ft, the M2 sends the torque to the rear wheels via a 6-speed manual transmission or an optional 7-speed Dual Clutch transmission. The M developed chassis and suspension paired to the powerful M TwinPower Turbo technology engine ensure breathtaking performance.