A Taste Of M Power- BMW M240i (2022)

You've probably noticed this: small coupes are a hard sell these days. That's why hardly anyone makes one anymore. But the reputation BMW enjoys today was built mostly on this type of car. Small and fast coupes like the legendary E46 and the earlier E36 M3s. So persevere, it must.

- Kenny Yeo

The newest M240i mostly adheres to the traditional BMW recipe of a low-slung compact coupe body paired with a large engine. However, instead of the power going to just the rear wheels, the M240i has an all-wheel drive system. Fortunately, it's heavily rear-biased.

The M240i is surprisingly practical. The boot has a capacity of 390 litres which, it might surprise you to learn, is actually more than a hatchback like Audi A3 or Volkswagen Golf.

Underneath its long-ish hood lies the revered B58, a motor endorsed and employed by Toyota in its Supra coupe. It's a 3-litre turbocharged straight six putting out 374hp and 500nm of torque - very big numbers for a car that isn't that much bigger than a small hatchback.

It is this motor that gives the M240i a unique advantage amongst its rivals because they mostly rely on highly competent, but uninteresting four-cylinder motors. Admittedly, modern four-pots are smooth and capable of big power, but none can match the creaminess, noise, and effortless delivery of BMW's big-chested straight six.

Underneath its long-ish hood lies the revered B58, a motor endorsed and employed by Toyota in its Supra coupe. It's a 3-litre turbocharged straight six putting out 374hp and 500nm of torque - very big numbers for a car that isn't that much bigger than a small hatchback.

The motor is eager and responsive with only the very slightest hint of turbo lag. Combined with the very fast and almost telepathic ZF 8-speed gearbox, the M240i always feels fast. Furthermore, despite being turbocharged and having to adhere to stricter emission and noise. regulations, it actually makes some delicious noises.