Driver’s Seat: 2026 BMW 228i xDrive is fun to drive, but many drawbacks

2026 Audi S3 Prestige vs. 2026 BMW 228i xDrive Gran Coupe: Battle of the little racers.

This week: BMW 228i.

Price: Starts at $41,600 for both the 2025 and 2026 model years. Advantage, BMW.

Conventional wisdom: Car and Driver liked the “Refined balance of ride and handling, eager powertrains, purposeful near minimalist interior design and materials,” but not the “compromised cargo and rear passenger space,” and that the “front and rear fasciae appear a bit forced on otherwise sleek bodywork.”

Marketer’s pitch: “Strikingly sporty.”

Reality: “Striking.” I was afraid of striking things as I tried to make simple adjustments.

Catching up: Last week we enjoyed the Audi S3 until Mr. Driver’s Seat landed on the highway, or tried to squeeze in some luggage.

What’s new: The 2 Series received