Skip advert
Advertisement

Used BMW 2 Series (Mk1, 2014-2021) review - What do owners think?

The 2 Series has tried and tested powertrains and the brand is performing better in Driver Power best dealerships

Overall Auto Express Rating

3.5 out of 5

  • Fantastic handling
  • Efficient engines
  • High-quality cabin
  • Design lacks flair
  • Tight rear seats
  • Pricey next to 1 Series

The BMW 2 Series shares its engines, gearboxes, electronics and technology with the 1 Series hatchback, as well as a number of other models in the BMW and MINI line-ups. Both models have been on sale for a few years now, so there’s no need to have any concerns over new-car niggles.

Advertisement - Article continues below

Back in 2018, the 2 Series was placed 50th in our Driver Power new car survey, which is okay, but it was below the Audi A3 and BMW 3 Series. Its only top-20 scores were for infotainment, the engine and transmission; surprisingly the ride and handling weren’t highly rated, while build quality and reliability were even worse. Running costs got a thumbs up, but everything else was mid-table.

Reliability

In our 2020 Driver Power survey, BMW came 27th out of 30 manufacturers, while the 2 Series didn’t feature in the 75 cars ranked in the survey. It's a similar story for BMW's dealers, who often find themselves in the lower half of the Driver Power dealer ranking, although that's usually the case with its Audi and Mercedes rivals, too.

A year later, BMW had improved to 21st out of 29 manufacturers, but still behind the likes of Suzuki, Renault and Nissan.

Skip advert
Advertisement
Skip advert
Advertisement

Have you considered?

BMW 2 Series Coupe review
BMW 2 Series Coupe - front tracking
In-depth reviews
15 Aug 2023

BMW 2 Series Coupe review

New BMW 220d M Sport Coupe 2022 review
BMW 220d M Sport Coupe-9
Road tests
30 Sep 2022

New BMW 220d M Sport Coupe 2022 review

New BMW 2 Series Coupe 2022 review
BMW 2 Series Coupe - front
Road tests
4 Mar 2022

New BMW 2 Series Coupe 2022 review

Most Popular

New Dacia Duster 2024 review: an all-round improvement and still great value
Dacia Duster - front
Road tests

New Dacia Duster 2024 review: an all-round improvement and still great value

The latest version of the Dacia Duster is more capable than ever, while remaining a bargain
25 Apr 2024
New MG3 2024 review: hybrid supermini is a total bargain
MG3 - front tracking
Road tests

New MG3 2024 review: hybrid supermini is a total bargain

MG’s smallest car undercuts all of its rivals when it comes to price, and it offers a huge amount for the money
26 Apr 2024
Car Deal of the Day: Hyundai Ioniq 5 is a top class family EV for £215 a month
Hyundai Ioniq 5 Namsan Edition - front
News

Car Deal of the Day: Hyundai Ioniq 5 is a top class family EV for £215 a month

The award-winning Ioniq 5 as a do-it-all electric car and our Deal of the Day for 25 April
25 Apr 2024