BMW has revealed its eagerly awaited 2-series coupé at the Detroit motor show.
Due to go on sale in March, the rear-wheel drive successor to the 1-series coupé adopts BMW’s new naming system, which sees the German car maker’s more overtly sporting models receive an even-number model designation, as seen on the recently introduced 4-series and longer-established 6-series.
A trio of 2-series models are planned from the outset of UK sales, including the expected volume sellers, the £25,040 220i and £25,865 220d. They will be joined by the range topping M235i, priced at £34,250.
The replacement for the highly rated M135i coupé runs a 321bhp version of BMW’s twin-scroll turbocharged 3.0-litre in-line six-cylinder petrol engine, giving it a 0-62mph time of 5.0sec in standard six-speed manual guise or 4.8sec with an optional eight-speed automatic gearbox.
A further two models, the 218d and 225d, are planned to join the line-up in May.
The 2-series coupé sports unique exterior styling credited to a team of in-house designers overseen by BMW brand design boss Karim Habib.
The appearance is considerably more refined than that of the old 1-series coupé, boasting a combination of traditional elements and contemporary touches in a classic three-box body that, in keeping with the new car’s sporting brief, clearly places good looks ahead of overall practicality.
As with other recent new BMW models, buyers will be able to choose between four individual lines: SE, Sport, Modern and M Sport – the latter standard on the M235i in combination with 18-inch wheels and lowered suspension.
At 4432mm in length, 1774mm in width and 1418mm in height, the 2-series is 72mm longer, 24mm wider and 7mm lower than the outgoing 1-series coupé. It also has a 30mm-longer wheelbase than its predecessor at 2690mm.
Inside, the 2-series offers seating for four together with 390 litres of luggage capacity – some 20 litres more than the 1-series coupé. BMW also claims the new car boasts an added 19mm of front seat headroom and 21 mm of rear seat legroom than the car it replaces.
The interior is largely lifted from the second-generation 1-series hatchback, including the dashboard, front seats and switchgear. However, a limited number of unique trim elements attempt to provide the new car with an individual feel.
Together with the coupé, the new 2-series will also support a cabriolet model. Planned for launch during the second half of 2014, it follows the lead of the 1-series cabriolet in adopting a fabric hood and boasting seating for four adults along with 270 litres of luggage space.
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"The M235i comes equipped with a 2.0-litre turbocharged diesel engine producing 321bhp", Sort it out Autocar thats not even a typo thats just laziness. Must say though the car looks stunning, having driven the M135i and saying at the time that it could do with an LSD to make it just a bit more poised and direct, BMW has answered our prayers. People will shoot me down here, but i remembered reading an article some time ago when the a45 amg and m135i were put around a track, the little beemer was only 0.3 secs slower than the more powerful merc. I reckon this car with its LSD and in xDrive guise will beat, if not come close, to the Merc in terms of lap times and sheer drving fun!
While the M135i is a bit of a
While the M135i is a bit of a bargain, the M235i is sailing very close to the much faster A45 AMG. The X-Drive version will probably cost the same. Add options that are standard on the AMG and it could well work out more costly for less performance. At the other end, you have the Golf R about to launch at £4k less and similar performance. Can't help thinking BMW have missed the price point by £2k here.
4432mm Where are the 220 i
4432mm
Where are the 220 i with a NA L6???