2022 Audi A4 vs 2022 BMW 2 Series

The 2022 Audi A4 presented a simple, clean, and conservative exterior design that served as an ideal backdrop for its striking Tango Red paint and Black Edition package. The classic five-arm rotor-design wheels added a touch of automotive design perfection. Inside, the A4 maintained a similar aesthetic restraint, with a predominantly black interior accented by aluminum trim and gloss black décor. The high-quality materials and the 12.3-inch Audi Virtual Cockpit digital instrumentation panel contributed to a sophisticated cabin, although the tablet-style touchscreen infotainment system seemed somewhat out of place.

In contrast, the 2022 BMW 2 Series Coupe showcased a new exterior design that avoided the aggressive front fascia seen in other BMW models. The M240i xDrive Coupe featured performance-oriented styling with shadowy M-type accents and 19-inch M light alloys. The interior was straightforward and driver-focused, with standard perforated SensaTec synthetic upholstery and available Vernasca leather. The updated interior included a 10.25-inch infotainment touchscreen and sport seats for premium comfort. Despite its high-end vibe, some penny-pinching plastics were noticeable, particularly in the iDrive controller and air vents.

The 2022 Audi A4 offered two engine options: the 40 TFSI with a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine producing 201 horsepower and 236 lb-ft of torque, and the 45 TFSI with 261 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque. Both engines used a seven-speed S-tronic dual-clutch automatic transmission and Audi's Quattro Ultra AWD system. The A4 45 TFSI accelerated to 100 km/h in approximately 5.4 seconds, with a combined fuel economy rating of 8.8 L/100 km. The driving experience was refined, with a solid punch of torque and excellent handling, although the steering could have been more engaging.

The 2022 BMW 2 Series M240i xDrive Coupe boasted a 3.0-litre turbocharged inline-six-cylinder engine with 382 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque. It accelerated from 0 to 100 km/h in just 4.3 seconds. The eight-speed Sport automatic transmission offered smooth shifts, and the xDrive AWD system provided stability during cornering. Despite its impressive performance, the driving experience felt somewhat disconnected, with numb steering and a lack of engagement for the driver. The M240i xDrive Coupe included performance features like an aerodynamic kit, adaptive M suspension, and M Sport brakes.

The 2022 Audi A4's low seating position made entry and exit challenging, but once inside, the front seats offered exceptional comfort with power adjustment and thigh-support cushions. The rear seats were snug, with limited legroom and hard plastic seatbacks. Interior storage was limited, but the 340-litre cargo space was well-finished and practical, with enclosed hinges and storage nets.

The 2022 BMW 2 Series Coupe was compact, with rear seats best suited for children or short trips. The slanted roofline and design elements limited rear headroom and trunk access. However, the 40/20/40-split fold-down rear seats allowed for flexible cargo space, with 283 litres available. The interior featured soft touchpoints and improved ergonomics, though space was tight for taller passengers.

The 2022 Audi A4 featured a 10.1-inch touchscreen with the MIB3 version of Audi's MMI, supporting smartphone functions and offering acoustic feedback. The system included Bluetooth, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a 19-speaker Bang & Olufsen audio system. The intuitive interface and separate climate controls made the tech user-friendly, though the voice recognition was slow.

The 2022 BMW 2 Series came with a 10.25-inch touchscreen and BMW Live Cockpit Plus, featuring over-the-air updates, cloud-based navigation, and connected services. The system supported wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with an optional 12.3-inch digital display. The BMW Digital Key and My BMW App offered remote access and control, while the optional Harman Kardon audio system provided premium sound quality.

The 2022 Audi A4 offered a comprehensive suite of safety features, including Audi Pre Sense with collision preparation, forward-collision warning, and automatic emergency braking. The Technik trim added lane-departure warning, adaptive cruise control, and a surround-view camera system. The A4 received top safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA.

The 2022 BMW 2 Series included standard safety features like active blind-spot monitoring, forward-collision warning, and lane departure warning. Optional features included adaptive LED headlights and BMW Drive Recorder. However, the 2 Series had not yet been rated by the IIHS or NHTSA.