The BMW M235i is about the same size and has about the same power as the fabled E46 M3, so for all intents and purposes, tracing its lineage back to that car makes sense.

It is a bit heavier, though, and probably numbed down by the electric steering and invasive safety nets, but according to this video review I found of it, as an overall sports car package, it sounds really tempting.

AutoGuide recently had a chance to try out the M235i around the Las Vegas Motor Speedway, and the car’s handling and driver enjoyment were judged, as was its high speed cruising ability, tested on the banked oval.

It’s definitely a car to look out for in 2014, and if you want a bit more economy out of the package and don’t mind the less pleasurable soundtrack, then the cheaper 228i with optional M bits stuck to it will probably be just as satisfactory for anybody but the really hardcore driver.

Scroll down and check out the video after the jump.

By Andrei Nedelea

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