Five-Point Inspection: 2015 BMW 228i

1. Drivetrain:

The 228i is the base model in the lineup and the most affordable car in the BMW range. It sports a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that puts out 240-hp and 255 lb-ft of torque. But there’s something more to the 228i than the numbers. For starters, it doesn’t sound anything like a buzzy four-cylinder. Instead it reminds us of BMW’s old inline sixes. While BMW has been known to “enhance” their cars soundtrack, if true in this car, it’s a nice addition.

You can get the car with either a six-speed manual transmission or get an eight-speed automatic for no extra cost. While enthusiasts will likely flock to the manual shifter, the eight-speed is no slouch, helping the 228i rocket to 60 MPH in under 5.5 seconds.

For reference, the epic E46 M3 that so many BMW fans praise does the 0-60 sprint in five seconds. While this car isn’t as raw as an M-car (you can look to the M235i, or upcoming M2 for that experience) it will be refreshing for BMW buyers to know that the cheapest model in the BMW range is as quick to 60 as the old icon.