BMW 230i

How it looks when you see on the street: The BMW 230i is a selfish car. Or a car best suited for self care, depending on your perspective. The backseats are too cramped to bring friends along, but for the driver and maybe one lucky passenger, the 230i is good fun. It has the familiar face we’ve come to love on the BMW kidney grille, where the car seems to be slightly smirking on its 2022 redesign.

How it makes you feel when you get in: like singing! The carefree allure of small sports car cabin is infectious and driving it feels like a reward more than a chore. It’s a segment that’s shrinking in the car world, so we’ve got extra love for this new model.

How it drives: BMW driving isn't for everyone — and that’s intentional. It’s stiff ride, which is suited to its performance credentials. The turbocharged four-cylinder engine has 255 horsepower, which has zing. There’s a more powerful M240 with all wheel drive, but we like the back to basics sporty feel provided by the 230i.

Space for people and things: Who needs space when you’re thinking about cornering like a race car driver? Rear seats do fold down if you find yourself in a pinch at the market.

Best Features: Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto make it feel more modern.

How much does it cost: Our ride was $46,000, which translates to about $10k of options for extra Mdriving add-ons