BMW 228i driven in South Africa 2015
The plethora of new cars by BMW has meant consumers are quite literally spoilt for choice within the BMW range alone. SA Car Fan recently got behind the wheel of what many feel is probably the sportiest BMW when it comes to Rands and cents – the mighty BMW 228i.
With a reputation for delivering a dynamic all-round drive, the 228i in its convertible attire is a piece of machinery to be enjoyed.
A numbers game
Car enthusiasts are finally getting the hang of the new BMW numbering system for their model line-up. But there is more numbers to the 2 Series than a small badge on its behind that reads: 228i. In fact, this BMW 228i boasts some impressive credentials. Zero to 100km/h will take 6.1 seconds. The top speed is electronically limited to 250km/h and in terms of fuel economy, the car will sip just 6.8 litres/100km.
All these numbers come courtesy of a 2-litre turbocharged engine that produces a thrill inducing 180kW of power and 350Nm of rampant torque.
As the figures indicate, this is a driver’s car. It’s built for passion and enjoyment as it takes into account drivability paired with efficient dynamics. Coupled with a soft top, the BMW 228i goes topless in a mere 20 seconds at speeds of up to 50km/h.
Suns out, guns out
Admittedly, the winter months are not the best time to be in a convertible, but the pure pleasure that radiates from the BMW 228i makes you quickly forget about the outside cold. The sound emanating from this BMW’s derriere is magnificent. It may not be the signature BMW ringtone, but exploring the entire rev range of the 228i with the slick six-speed manual gearbox, which was fitted to our test car, makes for some serious fun and a rather pleasing sound.
Torsional rigidity has been improved too, with the car delivering a stiffer ride. But it’s reassuring to know that the 2-Series, despite losing its top, hasn’t lost any of its dynamics. It’s still a powerful rear-wheel machine that rates high on the thrills chart.
Performance wise, it’s a BMW down to a T, but the German engineers have done their homework to make small improvements on this convertible. The result is a better vehicle than its predecessor. The most instantly recognisable enhancements, besides the styling tweaks, is the quitter cabin. With improved insulation, the on the road and wind noise that permeates the cockpit is kept to a minimum. Storage space is also up slightly and the rear legroom now offers more space for rear occupants.
While the BMW brand continues to diversify, it’s reassuring to know, that despite the likes of the i3 and Active Tourer making their way into the BMW line-up, driver focused cars are still an integral part of the company with such a rich history of passion.
And to those who feel like convertibles are gimmicky, I have this say. After spending a week with a car of this caliber with the roof off for the majority of our time together, nothing is more enticing than a car that offers an engaging drive that gives superb feedback, while having the top off and truly getting to enjoy your surroundings and taking in the world the way it’s supposed to be – flashing by.
The 228i is the perfect blend of performance, thrills and speed, mixed with elements of comfort and technology.
| Quick Facts | |
| Base Price | R525 000 |
| Engine Capacity | 1 997 cm³ |
| No. Of Cylinders | 4-cylinders |
| Aspiration | Turbo |
| Power | 180kW @ 5 000 r/min |
| Torque | 350Nm @ 4 800 r/min |
| Transmission | 6-Speed Manual |
| Drive type | Rear-wheel drive |
| Acceleration | 0-100 km/h in 6.1 seconds (claimed) |
| Top Speed | 250km/h (electronically limited) |
| Fuel Consumption | 6.8 l/100km (claimed combined) |
| CO2 Emissions | 154/km |
