The new BMW 2 Series coupe offers unbeatable driving dynamics in the premium-compact segment, emotionally appealing aesthetics in typical BMW coupe style, and a sporting tradition that dates back to the BMW 02 range.
This is not the first time that BMW has treated the compact segment to its customary brand of driving pleasure. The BMW 1 Series, for example, has fulfilled this role for almost ten years now, its standout position among its rivals rooted most prominently in its rear-wheel-drive concept—still a unique proposition in this class—powerful engines with BMW turbo technology, and a compelling premium character. And now the BMW 2 Series coupe takes those levels of driving pleasure to even greater heights. The new two-door cuts a particularly impressive figure with its distinctive body design, a range of extremely powerful engines, and specially configured chassis technology.
There is a clear difference between the BMW 2 Series Coupe and the BMW 1 Series, the new model assuming a character all its own. This is immediately recognizable in the design of the new car, but also in the performance. The BMW 2 Series Coupe is an even more eye-catching creation than its predecessor, the resoundingly successful BMW 1 Series Coupe (of which more than 150,000 units have been sold worldwide). As well as a unique appearance and increased dimensions, there is also a greater depth in terms of both technology and standard equipment. The result is a new experience in driving dynamics, aesthetic appeal, and premium allure in the compact segment, highlighted by the “2” in the new car’s model designation. The number 2 has denoted the presence of a supremely sporting driving experience in a compact two-door car for over 45 years—ever since the introduction of the BMW 02 range, most notably in the U.S., the 2002 models of the 1960s and ‘70s.
Characteristic features of a BMW Coupe.
The specific concept behind the BMW 2 Series Coupe—unique in its segment—is faithfully reflected in its body design. The two-door model is first and foremost a Coupe from the BMW brand, and the design features that identify a member of this special breed —a three-box body with clearly defined trunk and low-slung silhouette, a long hood, doors with frameless windows, and a dynamically stretched roofline flowing smoothly into the rear end—are carried over into a compact model with greater enthusiasm and intent than ever. The ultra-sporty driving characteristics of the BMW 2 Series Coupe—generated by a hand-picked selection of engines and chassis technology tuned to make the perfect pairing—are clearly expressed in the design of the exterior. The 184 hp four-cylinder engine in the BMW 220i Coupe is making its debut in a compact BMW model, and the 326 hp six-cylinder inline engine under the hood of the BMW M235i Coupe earns it top billing as the most powerful gasoline-driven member of the BMW M Performance Automobile line-up.
The specific proportions of the BMW 2 Series Coupe are contained within a body measuring 174.5 inches in length. The two-door model is more than four inches longer than the BMW 1 Series and almost three inches longer than the outgoing BMW 1 Series Coupe. The new compact Coupe is also an inch wider than its predecessor, and has a longer wheelbase and wider front and rear tracks.
At the same time the vehicle height has been lowered to 55.8 inches. The result is an increase in interior space and a total of 13.8 cubic feet of cargo space. The BMW 2 Series Coupe also boasts more efficient aerodynamics than both the BMW 1 Series and its predecessor, as reflected in a Cd of 0.29 for the BMW 220i Coupe.
Sporting tradition on a compact footprint.
The BMW 2 Series Coupe builds on the brand’s tradition of compact models offering a satisfying degree of driver engagement. And the presence of the 2 in the model designation creates a close link to this heritage. The introduction in 1966 of the BMW 1600-2, for instance, opened up a whole new vehicle segment. Inspired most profoundly by its precisely tailored package of powertrain and chassis technology, the two-door Coupe became a global standard-bearer for sporty handling and intense driving pleasure in the compact car segment. Additional engine variants increased the appeal of the new model series. For example, the BMW 2002 presented in 1968 took center stage—in both popularity and its success in turning “Freude am Fahren” (Sheer Driving Pleasure) from a slogan into an experience for a whole new generation of drivers eager to experience it. The most spectacular variant was the 170 hp BMW 2002 Turbo—the first model from a European manufacturer to employ the services of a turbocharger.—Scott Blazey
