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The G42 M240i xDrive is an incredible expression of the BMW sport coupe concept. Yes, a 3,900-pound AWD car that’s only available with a torque converter automatic is that car.
The B58+ZF8 combo is as good as it gets in this car. It is delicious just how smooth and effortless and punchy this powertrain is, and pushing the power through the RWD-biased xDrive means that it’s all completely and utterly usable in whatever conditions with whatever ham-fisted inputs. M2 Comp performance, but easily accessible for most drivers with little compromise in driving enjoyment.
This car is why weight is an overrated metric for a fun daily street-driven sports coupe. With greater weight comes a wider car with a more rigid chassis that drives lighter than lighter cars that came before it. I’ve been daily driving an E36 328iS for the past few days, and you’d never tell this car is like 600 pounds lighter. So many things go into the subjective feeling of “weight” - steering, throttle response, outright acceleration and pace, grip and handling, etc. The G42 feels straight up effortless compared to any of these older, much lighter machines, you’d easily think it’s 2,800 pounds if no one showed you the spec sheet.
Weight also gives you a fantastically appointed interior that’s comfortable and filled with every desirable amenity. A surprisingly luxurious-feeling compact sports coupe that will coddle you on the commute and not make you pay a price for that thrilling drive that’s a drive mode setting away.
The G42 is crazy for $55k. The G87 … can’t wait.
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