The 2017 BMW M240i Convertible.
BMW is pumping things up for 2017, offering a pair of new and more powerful TwinPower Turbo engines for the 2-Series coupe and convertible lines.
The old M235i model will be replaced for the coming model-year by the 2017 BMW M240i, the new 3.0-liter six-cylinder package churning out 335 horsepower, a 15 hp increase over its predecessor. That puts it within striking distance of the top-line BMW M2. The other option for 2017 is the new 2.0-liter BMW 230i, which will be making 248 hp.
BMW claims that both of the new engine packages develop smoother and more instantaneous power than classic turbo options, eliminating the classic turbo lag at low RPMs. The 240i, for example, hits peak torque of 369 pound-feet at just 1,520 revs.
Key elements of the new inline-six engine package include a twin-scroll turbocharger which is integrated into the steel exhaust manifold. It also gets an aluminum crankcase and cylinder head, and a Double-VANS variable camshaft.
The new inline-six will be offered for both coupe and convertible, in rear or xDrive packages.
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The new 3.0-liter TwinPower Turbo engine can be paired with either a six-speed manual with rev matching or an eight-speed Steptronic. The new M Performance model will be offered in either rear-wheel or all-wheel-drive configurations.
The 2017 BMW M240i will be able to launch from 0 to 60 in as little as 4.2 seconds, a 0.2 second improvement over the old M235i. But the automaker suggests it also expects to deliver improved fuel economy when it comes to market later this year.
Credit several features of the new powertrain, suggests BMW, pointing to, “an electric coolant pump for the intercooler that operates only as necessary, a map-controlled oil pump, Electric Power Steering, the Auto Start Stop function, Brake Energy Regeneration and various other solutions developed by BMW EfficientDynamics.”
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Among the standard features of the M240i, the sport suspension has been lowered by 10 millimeters. It rides on 18-inch light-alloy wheels shod with Michelin Pilot Super Sport tires. There’s also the more aggressive M Sport braking system with fixed multi-piston calipers. The M240i also gets Variable Sport Steering and unique aero exterior detaling.
Many of the same features developed for the M240i’s six-cylinder engine have been integrated into the 2017 BMW 230i Coupe and Convertible inline-four. The heart of this package is the latest-generation 2.0-liter TwinPower Turbo engine here making 248 hp and 258 lb-ft.
Both fuel economy and pricing will be announced closer to the U.S. introduction of the 2-Series line-up later this year.
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