On this episode of MotorTrend Ignition, Carlos Lago tests the new BMW M235i, the smallest and least expensive performance car in the BMW’s lineup.

Through instrumented testing, a drive on the winding road, and a hot lap with Randy Pobst at Streets of Willow, MotorTrend finds out if the M235i is the real deal.

The BMW M235i Coupe is the latest member of the BMW M Performance Automobile family and it is powered by the N55 3.0 liter TwinPower turbocharged inline-six engine also found in the M135i. It produces 322 hp and 332 lf-ft of torque taking the M235i from 0-60 in 4.8 seconds when optioned with the 8-speed sport automatic. Top speed is 155mph and MPG is 22 city/32 hwy for the auto and 19/29 for the 6-speed manual.

bmw-m235i-on-track-116

BMW M235i also comes with exclusive 18-inch M light-alloy wheels fitted with mixed tires in 225/40 R18 format for the front wheels and 245/35 R18 at the rear.

The BMW M235i will sell for $43,100 in the United States. In Germany, the BMW M235i costs 36,764 Euro.

The best lap time was recorded at 1:26.37 ’14 with a total weight of the 1455 kilograms.

Here is the video review:

https://youtube.com/watch?v=hPy0T3Fojt0