What Is the Cheapest BMW You Can Buy?

by Gabrielle DeSantis

BMW has always been known for producing some of the most premium luxury cars in the market, however, they don’t come cheap. Many prospective luxury buyers set out to lease and purchase pricier models like the X5 and M3, without really batting an eye to the fact that they spending well over $50,000 to do so.

But for every expensive car in an automaker’s lineup, there has to be a cheaper one to round out the bottom end of the list. As such, any budget-minded BMW buyers might wonder: What is the cheapest model in BMW’s lineup?

The BMW 2 Series

2021 BMW 2 Series Coupe | BMW

Anyone looking for the cheapest way to get into a premium BMW vehicle will find a solution in the brand’s 2 Series. The BMW 2 Series is the automaker’s entry-level model that comes in a coupe or a Gran Coupe (four-door hatchback) body style and there’s even an M2 variant that’s geared toward performance.

That doesn’t mean that the regular 2 Series is a slouch to drive. In fact, the 230i coupe comes standard with a turbocharged, 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 248 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque. The 228i Gran Coupe, on the other hand, comes with a similar-sized engine that produces 228 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque.

Both variations are available with either an eight-speed automatic transmission or a six-speed manual that each routes the power to the rear wheels. Although, an all-wheel-drive configuration is available as well. The 230i can get from 0 to 60 mph in just 5.6 seconds, according to Car and Driver’s testing, which is respectable for an entry-level luxury coupe. The 228i Gran Coupe can cover that same distance in 6.3 seconds, according to BMW.

BMW M235i Gran Coupe and 240i Coupe

2021 BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe
2021 BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe | BMW

Anyone in need of a little more power under the hood and more grip under the tires, the BMW M235i Gran Coupe is part of the 2 Series roster as well. The M235i is powered by a more powerful turbocharged 2.0-liter engine that puts out 301 hp and 331 lb-ft of torque. The upgraded powerplant is mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission that routes power to all four wheels. According to BMW, the M235i is able to get to 60 mph from a standstill in just 4.7 seconds.

If buyers would rather have two doors, as opposed to four, then they can choose the M240i Coupe. Under the hood of that version is a turbocharged 3.0-liter engine that produces 335 hp and 368 lb-ft of torque and is mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission. With this combination, the M240i is able to get up to 60 mph in just 4.4 seconds, BMW reports.

What else does the BMW 2 Series come with?

2021 BMW 2 Series Coupe
2021 BMW 2 Series Coupe interior | BMW

While power and performance figures are half of the equation when choosing to buy a BMW, many buyers will also benefit from a host of standard luxury features in every 2 Series. The most notable standard features on the 230i include leather upholstery, power front seats, auto climate control, LED headlights, dynamic cruise control, and Apple Carplay.

All other 2 Series models come with these same features, but opting for the higher and sportier trim will give buyers a little more. For example, the M240i Coupe comes with 18-inch wheels, M Sport brake calipers, an adaptive suspension, and an M Sport steering wheel.

How much does the BMW 2 Series cost?

2021 BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe
2021 BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe | BMW

The BMW 230i coupe has a starting MSRP of $35,900 plus a $995 destination charge. If all-wheel-drive is needed, then buyers can opt for the 230i xDrive, which starts at $37,900. The 2 Series Gran Coupe models share a similar pricing structure.

However, the pricing does increase if more power is desired. The M240i Coupe starts at $46,350, while the AWD version raises that price up to $48,350. The BMW 235i Gran Coupe has similar pricing as well.

BMW on a budget

While the BMW 2 Series doesn’t have the type of passenger and cargo room that some buyers might need in a larger sedan or SUV, it’s still a zippy and luxurious performer. The BMW 2 Series might be the cheapest one in the bunch, but it’s great for budget-minded performance.

RELATED: The BMW M240i Is a More Luxurious Toyota Supra

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3 Affordable Cars With Ventilated Seats to Keep You Cool This Summer

by Gabrielle DeSantis

When car shopping, you likely have a long list of must-haves. You want good safety ratings, fuel economy, performance, style, and comfort. But in the hot summer months, you might want something beyond air conditioning. Ventilated seats provide much-needed cooling, and you can find them even in affordable cars. For instance, the Toyota Camry, Hyundai Elantra, and Kia Forte all offer this luxurious feature.

What’s the difference between ventilated seats and cooled seats?

Let’s get this out of the way first: For heated seats, the heating elements are located in the seat and upholstery. But ventilated and cooled seats work a bit differently.

Ventilated seats offer a cooling effect. However, they’re designed with a series of fans that move air through the seat and backrest, cooling any trapped heat in the materials.

Cooled seats differ in that they deliver refrigerated air through the seats. 

2 Toyota Camry trims with ventilated seats

The Toyota Camry is the best-selling midsize sedan for many reasons, including its balance of features and affordability. It also offers plenty of trims and options. For instance, for 2021, you can choose between an impressive 2.5-liter Dynamic Force four-cylinder and a beefy 3.5-liter V6. There’s also a hybrid powertrain that gets an attractive 46 mpg combined. Safety is big with the Camry, too, and the Toyota Safety Sense 2.5 suite of driver’s aids comes standard.

To get ventilated front seats, you’ll have to buy the Camry XLE or XLE V6. Because these seats are part of an optional package, there may be an added cost. But the Camry XLE starts at an affordable $29,870, and the XLE V6 has an MSRP of $34,995.

The 2021 Hyundai Elantra Limited Hybrid has ventilated seats

Another exciting sedan is the 2021 Hyundai Elantra. If you’re looking for ventilated seats, look at the Elantra Limited Hybrid for all the bells and whistles. They include ventilated front seats, a memory driver’s seat, and leather upholstery. Oh, and you’ll get a 10.25-inch touchscreen navigation system, too. Hyundai prices this Elantra model starting at $28,100.

Sure, hybrids are a bit pricier than their gas-powered counterparts, but this Elantra gets an impressive 49 mpg in the city and 52 on the highway for excellent long-term savings at the pump.

Even the compact Kia Forte has this high-end feature

Despite its compact-car status, the 2021 Kia Forte boasts an upscale cabin experience, U.S. News reports. Its standard features are robust, and this car has one of the most spacious trunks in its class.

Plus, optional comfort extras include synthetic leather seating, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and a 10-way power-adjustable driver’s seat. And, yes, it offers ventilated front seats too. And you’ll pay only about $24,460 for a Forte with all of those extras.

One final thing: If you don’t want to buy a new car just for ventilated seats, know that you can get aftermarket seats installed in various car models. But if you’re thinking about purchasing a new car, check out the 2021 Toyota Camry, 2021 Kia Forte, and 2021 Hyundai Elantra to help keep you cool this summer and beyond.

RELATED: Which 2021 Ford F-150 Trims Have Ventilated Seats?

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Walk-Behind Lawn Mower Safety Rules You Should Never Break

by Gabrielle DeSantis

Summer means pool time, camping adventures, and other outdoor fun. But it also means yard maintenance. Unfortunately, as Americans dust off their trusty lawn mowers, the risk of injuries also increases. That’s why it’s important to be mindful of safety best practices, especially with walk-behind mowers. Though mowing feels routine, don’t lose sight of the potential dangers.

Here are a few walk-behind lawn mower rules you should never break. 

Prepare before firing up the lawn mower

You’ve probably been mowing your lawn for years. And with that experience comes a false sense of safety. Before you start your walk-behind mower, make sure you’re dressed properly.

Don’t wear sandals or mow barefooted. The University of Michigan also recommends wearing long pants to protect your legs from thrown debris or objects. And despite your comfort with mowing, it’s always best to wear eye protection.

Keep others away from your lawn mower

When you’re ready to mow, make sure no neighbors or family members occupy the yard space. Flying debris from a lawn mower can be hazardous or even deadly. You might not see that rock, branch, or walnut in time to veer away. As a result, your push mower could turn an innocent piece of yard debris into a deadly projectile.

Those hazards can be maintenance nightmares for your mower components and blades, too.

Keep your hands to yourself during operation

When the grass gets tall, it can easily clog your walk-behind lawn mower during operation. You might feel like saving time by trying to unclog things on the fly. But experts, including the American Society for Surgery of the Hand, say never put your hands or feet near the mower to remove grass. Even with the motor off, the blades might continue to oscillate. 

It’s also important to know that you should lift a non-running walk-behind mower with care. Wear maintenance gloves before attempting to turn your mower over. And don’t lift it by placing your hands near blade clearance areas. Even a non-rotating blade can cut fingers.

Protecting your children around lawn mowers

Children enjoy being outdoors when you’re outdoors. And there are toy mowers kids love to push around, pretending to mow like you. But you must take every step to ensure no children are present when you start a walk-behind mower. Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh warns that children can quickly be injured, even across the yard, due to flying debris. 

Also, never allow children to play on or around a lawn mower, even when it’s off. The blades present hazards, as can other components. Teach them early that mowers are not toys, despite the similarities with their own plastic versions. Also, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that no child under the age of 12 be allowed to operate a mower. And even in those circumstances, consider all best safety practices and maintenance. Constant supervision and awareness are your best lines of defense.

So don’t get too comfortable when mowing the lawn this summer. Instead, remember the above safety tips to protect yourself, your family, and your neighbors.

RELATED: Lawn Mower Maintenance Tips to Avoid Breakdowns

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Buyer’s Guide: Toyota 4runner (2014-2017)

by Gabrielle DeSantis

The Toyota 4Runner is a staple on off-road trails across America. You’re just as likely to find them in a school parking lot too. It’s an SUV that can do everything and anything you should need it to and a great purchase. If you do happen to be looking for one, this buyer’s guide will help you figure out which one to buy and which one to skip.

What Toyota 4Runner options to look for

The 2016 Toyota 4Runner | Raymond Boyd via Getty Images

Thankfully, trim levels are simple and straightforward on the 4Runner. In order of best equipped the list is as follows: SR5, SR5 Premium, Trail, then Trail Premium. Moving up the list gets you the goods, starting with the TRD Pro, and finally the Limited trim. At a bare minimum, the SR5 Premium is recommended. It nets you some off-road chops, but only if optioned, in the form of Active Traction Control. There’s also some nice comfort features in the SR5 Premium like a sunroof and premium audio. Front heated seats are also available.

However, if it’s Toyota-flavored off-roading you want, the TRD Pro is the way to go. The Pro 4Runner gets a TRD skid plate, unique exterior badging and trim, and all-terrain tires. All this in addition to the off-road goodies from the lower specced 4Runner models makes this trim level the most off-road friendly ‘Runner you can have. There’s also the luxury-leaning Limited trim, but that’s not really what the 4Runner is about. A nicely optioned Highlander is a better choice for some at that point.

Known issues

The interior of the 5th gen 4Runner, with navigation
5th Gen 4Runner interior | Toyota

Moving on to the mechanics of the 4Runner. The 5th generation Toyota 4Runner deserves the brand’s renowned reputation for reliability, but more on that later. There have been some small foibles over the 5th gen’s lifespan, but nothing too notable. Beware of ‘Runners from humid environments, as the frame can rust.

There is also a recall on the Takata airbags in these cars, but most sellers will have taken care of that. Finally, inspect the air conditioning system and stereo. Some owners report a moldy-smelling A/C unit, and some complain of echoes when using Bluetooth. Additionally, test the seats first, as they can be a touch uncomfortable for those with sensitive backs. With these problems in mind, a clean, well-maintained example is easy to find. Just keep an eye out for the regular consumable issues, like brakes and tires.

Toyota 4Runner reliability and pricing

A red 5th Gen 4Runner rolling down a straight, empty road
A 2014 4Runner | Toyota

Pricing for 5th generation 4Runners can be a little all over the place. People really drive these, and high mileage SR5 and Limited models will go for around $30,000-$38,000 with north of 60,000 miles on them. The TRD Pro Toyota 4Runners command a real premium because of their off-road capability. Expect to pay north of $45,000 for one with less than 50,000 miles. That said, a Toyota 4Runner really can be a forever car, and its features, capability, and reliability make it well worth the premium price it commands.

RELATED: Another Rare Toyota Supra- This Time It’s New

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