It has been a really poorly kept secret on the internet, but after the leaked images, videos and scoop tests by German magazines, BMW has officially unveiled the all-new 2 Series. The BMW 2 Series Coupé replaces the 1 Series Coupé (of which more than 150 000 units have been sold worldwide).
Distinctive looks and dimensions
As you can see from these images, the 2 Series might be based on the 1 Series, but the two models have very distinctive looks. The new model assumes a character all of its own. The two-door model espouses the design elements of other BMW Coupé models – a three-box body with clearly defined boot and low-slung silhouette, a long bonnet, doors with frameless windows and a stretched roofline flowing smoothly into the rear end.
The specific proportions of the BMW 2 Series Coupé are contained within a body measuring 4 432 mm in length. The two-door model is 108 mm longer than the BMW 1 Series and 72 mm longer than the outgoing BMW 1 Series Coupé. The new compact Coupé is also 26 mm wider than its predecessor (at 1 774 mm), and has a 30-mm longer wheelbase (at 2 690 mm) and wider tracks (front: 1 521 mm, +41 mm; rear: 1 556 mm, +43).
At the same time the vehicle height has been lowered by 5 millimetres to 1 418 millimetres. The result is an increase in interior space and 20 litres of extra boot capacity (now 390 dm³). Added to which, the BMW 2 Series Coupé 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 Coupé.
Powerful engine options
The BMW 2 Series Coupé boasts a carefully chosen line-up of engine options in keeping with the cars sporty nature. These include the 135 kW four-cylinder engine in the BMW 220i Coupé and the 240 kW six-cylinder in-line engine under the bonnet of the BMW M235i Coupé.
According to BMW SA spokespersons you can expect to see the 2 Series in SA as early as March next year.
