BMW waited until after the big Paris Motor Show to present the new 2-Series Gran Coupé. This four-door version of the popular BMW 1-Series is more than just an update. The 2-Series introduces a series of technical and design improvements that make it a strong contender against models like the Audi A3 Sedan and Mercedes CLA.
20 mm Longer than Before
The new 2-Series Gran Coupé has an updated front design, closely resembling that of the 1-Series. The most noticeable visual change is at the rear, where new taillights give the car a more modern and striking appearance.
Additionally, the car has been extended by 20 mm, now measuring 4,546 mm in length, and raised by 25 mm, with a total height of 1,800 mm. The trunk offers up to 430 liters of space, and with a 40:20:40 split in the rear seats, the space can be easily optimized for more practicality.
Inside the cabin, you’ll find two large displays, both over 10 inches, supporting BMW’s latest iDrive system, version 9. The intuitive interface ensures that all functions are easily accessible, whether using touch, voice control, or the steering wheel buttons. Standard features include BMW Live Cockpit Plus with the cloud-based navigation system BMW Maps, and the option to add new functions via ConnectedDrive.
BMW has equipped the 2-Series Gran Coupé with a wide range of driver assistance systems. Standard features include the Driving Assistant with front collision warning, lane departure warning, and speed limit information, as well as Parking Assistant with the convenient Reversing Assistant.
Optional advanced features include Steering and Lane Control Assistant, Active Cruise Control with Stop & Go, and Parking Assistant Professional, which allows parking the car via a smartphone.
No More “i” in the Name
The biggest technical change under the hood is that model names no longer include the “i.” The former BMW 228i is now simply known as the BMW 228, and the engine lineup includes both petrol and diesel variants.
The 2-Series Gran Coupé is only available with a 2.0-liter turbo engine. The lineup starts with the 220, producing 170 hp, and goes up to the 228, which delivers 244 hp, an upgrade from the previous 231 hp. For those seeking more power, BMW’s M division offers the M235 xDrive variant with 300 hp and all-wheel drive, accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h in just 4.9 seconds.
Engine Lineup:
Petrol:
- 220 Sdrive 2.0 170 hp
- 228 Sdrive 2.0 244 hp 400 Nm
- 228 Xdrive 2.0 244 hp 400 Nm
- M235 Xdrive 2.0 300 hp 400 Nm
Diesel:
- 218d 150 hp Sdrive 2.0
- 220d 163 hp 2.0
Another significant change is that BMW has replaced their traditional 8-speed automatic transmission with a new 7-speed dual-clutch gearbox, offering faster shifts and an improved driving experience.
Enhanced Driving Dynamics
BMW has also focused on improving the car’s handling. The increased rigidity of the body and chassis, combined with optimized suspension and new shock absorber technology, delivers a more agile and precise driving experience. Standard features now include an integrated braking system and direct-controlled wheel slip limitation. The optional M-Sport package offers Adaptive M suspension with sports steering and 18” alloy wheels.
We look forward to getting to know the new 2-Series Gran Coupé more next year.
