The all-new X3 and 1-Series weren’t the only BMWs we took a closer look at in our recent trip to Germany. Also shown to us was the redesigned 2-Series Gran Coupe, Bavaria’s entry-level sedan. Like the 1-Series, the German automaker insists that it’s an all-new model.
On the surface, it looks more like a facelift than a total redesign, but most of the major changes are under the skin. So for those who’d like a BMW sedan but find the 3-Series too big now, you might want to read on.
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It’s easy to dismiss the BMW 2-Series Gran Coupe merely as a sedan version of the 1-Series hatchback. But Bernd Offner, the project head for both these models, explained that it’s much more than that. He explained that the 2-Series Grand Coupe is different from the 1-Series from the base of the A-pillar onwards. That means it has a totally different windshield and body panel stampings. At the most, it only shares the nose with its hatchback counterpart.
But what are the other changes? At the front, there are new headlights, a redesigned grille, and a lower nose, just like the 1-Series. At the back, one will notice the new tail lights, but Offner explained the subtle tweaks as well. The rear fenders were widened, allowing the rear suspension track to be changed.
Not only that, the trunklid is higher than before, making for better proportions and gives it a new set of tail lights. The project head even let us in on a little secret. The rear BMW badge was also made larger to make it look proportional to the rest of the design. A little trick for the eyes, he said.
Granted, the floorpan is still the same as the previous 2-Series Gran Coupe, but extensive changes to the underchassis meant it was enough for BMW to give it a new chassis code. It’s now internally known as the F74 whereas the old car was called F44. It’s also ever so slightly longer and taller than the outgoing model, and the chassis has been stiffened for good measure. The suspension geometry was also changed for improved handling.
Inside, it shares the same interior at the new 1-Series, and that’s not a bad thing at all. It’s significantly different from the previous model, employing a curved screen display that shows the instrument cluster and infotainment system. There are slimmer air-con vents all around, and the center console also gets an overhaul.
Just as interesting is the optional aluminum trim as it’s not just plastic that’s made to look like the said precious metal. It’s actually milled from a block of aluminum and if don’t believe it, all you have to do is touch it.
At launch, there will be four engine options available, at least for the European market. The BMW 2-Series Gran Coupe skips the lower output version of the 1.5-liter, three-cylinder turbo seen in the 116 hatchback. Instead, it goes straight for the more powerful version that makes 170hp and 280Nm of torque that’s fitted in the 220 Gran Coupe. Diesel options are still available in the form of the 218d Gran Coupe and 220d Gran Coupe, both fitted with 2.0-liter turbodiesels that make 150hp and 163hp, respectively.
But what about the fourth option? That would be the M235 xDrive. That one comes with a tuned 2.0-liter turbo gas engine that punches out 300hp and 400Nm. Power is sent to all four wheels and gains adaptive suspension standard. BMW claims a 0 to 100kph time of just 4.8 seconds.
It remains to be seen if we will get the new BMW 2-Series Gran Coupe. That said, the M235 could be an interesting addition given that compact sports cars are having a bit of a resurgence in the local market.
