We recently had the opportunity to drive a 2017 BMW M240i that was loaded with M Performance parts. The idea was to see if the M Performance parts helped make it more fun and/or more exciting. After all, the BMW M240i isn’t a proper M car but an M Performance car. So the additional go-fast bits could get it closer to the real-deal M2. However, our test car was very expensive, more so than the real BMW M2, actually. So is it worth it? In this video, we take a look at that question.
Our test car was an Estoril Blue BMW M240i with a six-speed manual to start with. So it packed a 3.0 liter turbocharged straight-six engine that made 335 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque. With a manual, that makes it good for 0-60 mph in about 4.3-4.4 seconds. Which is plenty fast enough. In fact, I never wanted for more power or performance during my time with it. But it’s not the performance that makes its B58 engine so special. What makes it special is how silky smooth it is, the wonderful noise it makes and how much it loves to rev. Based just on engines alone, I’d actually take the M240i over the M2.
But our test car had some extra goodies by way of a new front splitter, some M Performance vinyls, a little decklid spoiler, the new Display Steering Wheel II and, most importantly, a limited-slip differential. That last part is the most important part, as it was the only real performance addition. If you want to do any sort of hard driving, it’s well worth it. It really helps put the power down in a smooth, stable fashion and can be a life saver in the rain. It also makes smooth skids very easy, making you look like a hero.
Add all of that up, though, and our tester was a few thousand dollars more than a BMW M2. So which is worth buying? Find out in our video review.
