The Most Affordable BMW Cars You Can Buy Right Now: BMW 2 Series, BMW iX1 And More

In the past, the major reason you would want a BMW was to stand out from other luxury sedans with sporty dynamics, no-nonsense design and blistering performance. As the world progressed, BMW shifted from being a sports sedan manufacturer to a brand that is at the pinnacle of automotive technologies across various categories. Be it a massive sedan or an SUV, the BMW brand is now synonymous with luxury vehicles catering to all kinds of customers.

But where do you start in the BMW lineup? While some of BMW’s best vehicles belong to the 5 Series and 7 Series lineups, the German automaker has created an entire portfolio of compact vehicles that are relatively affordable. For less than HKD 650,000, you can choose from a wide range of sedans, SUVs, hot hatchbacks and a coupe SUV. The variety also includes various propulsion systems like petrol, plug-in hybrid and all-electric.

Hence, if you have planning to get a BMW for a long time and budget has been the only restraint, you have come to the right place. We have created a list of the most affordable BMW cars that you can buy in 2024.

8 of the most affordable BMW models in 2024

BMW 2 Series Active Tourer

Propulsion: Petrol
Category: Hatchback
Price: HKD 383,000

The BMW 2 Series Active Tourer is currently the most affordable four-door sedan in BMW’s lineup. Though it lacks the classic three-box stance of the 3 series sedan, the compact and aerodynamic hatchback design makes it efficient. With a 1.4-litre 3-cylinder petrol engine offering a decent mix of performance and fuel efficiency, BMW relies on a front-wheel-drive layout to prioritise comfort over driving dynamics. The interiors also feature BMW’s compact yet premium layout with decent space.

On the whole, the BMW 2 Series Active Tourer is a good entry point in the marque’s vast array of sporty sedans, especially if you don’t expect classic BMW vehicle characteristics.

BMW iX1

Propulsion: Electric
Category: Compact SUV
Price: HKD 399,900

The iX1 is essentially a BMW X1 with an electric powertrain and in layman’s terms, that translates to a swift SUV which also cares for the polar bear and the polar ice caps. While the design and the interior remain largely unchanged – save for the ‘i’ badges and the fake grille patterns – it’s the powertrain where things get exciting. You get up to 440 km (WLTP) range on a full charge and the fast charging feature delivers 120 km of range in just 10 minutes.

The advanced BMW Curved Display with voice control makes keeping a tab on things easy. Overall, the BMW iX1 is a great recommendation for first-time SUV buyers with green intentions.

BMW 3 Series Sedan

Propulsion: Petrol, Plug-in Hybrid
Category: Sedan
Price: HKD 489,000

The BMW 3 Series has always been an iconic vehicle in the compact luxury sedan class for decades. Offered with turbocharged petrol and plug-in hybrid powertrains, the new 3 Series sedan is one of the best affordable BMWs that money can buy.

Whichever version of the BMW 3 series is chosen, you will be assured of sporty driving dynamics, a luxurious and well-appointed cabin with the latest in-car gizmos, plenty of space for passengers and cargo and a comfortable ride experience. Young drivers will be happy to interact with digital interfaces that also bring in smart entertainment and driving aids.

Those seeking performance can also consider the 320i M Sport with a punchy engine and tightly sprung suspension, although you will end up paying a fortune for that boost in performance. You can also get it with a plug-in hybrid system.

BMW X3

Propulsion: Petrol, Plug-in hybrid
Category: SUV
Price: HKD 589,000

Despite being a midsize SUV, the BMW X3 is an affordable option in the BMW lineup and ends up being a great recommendation for a small family.

Aping the bulkier dimensions of the X5 SUV, the X3 with its nimble chassis allows for a sprightly performance and sharp handling despite sticking to the smaller turbocharged 4-cylinder petrol engine. The cabin is tailored for rough and tough conditions and yet, its use of premium materials and fancier items make the X3 a nice place to be in. The larger dimensions allow for good boot space and the fancy exteriors with those gorgeous alloy wheels give it an unmatched road presence. The plug-in hybrid options add to the value with improved fuel efficiency and lesser overall emissions.

BMW 2 Series Coupe

Propulsion: Petrol
Category: Coupe
Price: HKD 529,000

Who said that affordable BMWs couldn’t be fast and fun?

The BMW 2 Series Coupe is easily the most affordable two-door sports car from the German marque and is a hot favourite among enthusiasts. With a 4-cylinder turbo petrol engine at the front and a rear-wheel drive layout, the 2 Series Coupe appeals to those with a penchant for styling and a hint of sportiness in driving. A unique design sets apart the 2 Series Coupe from its rivals and despite its sporty intentions, this car offers all the comforts and luxuries that you expect from a modern BMW.

BMW X4

Propulsion: Petrol
Category: Coupe SUV
Price: HKD 649,000

Last but not least, the BMW X4 is the only coupe SUV under HKD 600,000. Available in the xDrive30i M Sport trim, the X4 is essentially the X3 SUV with a coupe-style body. The change in the rear end gives you a sizable boot for carrying luggage but you don’t miss out on the SUV dynamics from X3. The interior trim is similar to the X3 and so is the turbocharged 4-cylinder petrol engine making 245 hp.

In essence, the BMW X4 is best suited for those who seek a stylish coupe profile without compromising on the road presence of an SUV.

(Hero and Featured Image Credits: Courtesy pat__ via Unsplash)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

– Which is the most affordable BMW model?
The BMW 2 Series Active Tourer is the most affordable BMW model.

– Which is the most affordable BMW model to buy in 2024?
The BMW 2 Series Active Tourer is the most affordable BMW model to buy in 2024.