BMW is on the verge of unveiling its new 2025 BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe, but an inadvertent leak from its Chinese venture, BMW Brilliance, has given us an early look at the model.
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These leaked images reveal that the upcoming 2 Series Gran Coupe will adopt many visual updates seen in the recently facelifted BMW 1 Series hatchback, which received its update in June. The vehicle showcased in the images is a long-wheelbase version intended for the Chinese market, identifiable by the ‘L’ badge on the boot lid. It remains uncertain if this long-wheelbase version will be available in other markets.
The 2 Series Gran Coupe, particularly in its M Sport trim, features significant changes at the front end, mirroring the new 1 Series. Updates include redesigned headlights, a new grille, a revised front bumper, and modified air intakes. The rear end also boasts changes, such as a new rear light cluster, a reshaped bumper, and quad-exhaust tips, specific to the top-tier M235 version.
Related: The BMW 1 Series Lineup Coming to SA
Underneath, the 2 Series Gran Coupe shares the same UKL2 platform as the 1 Series, suggesting a similar range of engines. The 1 Series recently abandoned the ‘i’ designation for its petrol models and discontinued diesel options. It’s expected that the 2 Series Gran Coupe will follow this trend. The current base model, the 218i, is anticipated to be replaced by the 220, featuring a mild-hybrid 1.5-litre three-cylinder turbocharged engine, producing 125 kW and 280 N.m of torque.
The M235 performance model is likely to be equipped with a powertrain similar to the M135, featuring a turbocharged four-cylinder engine delivering 233 kW and 400 N.m of torque. The leaked photos are noteworthy not only for showcasing the M Performance model but also the long-wheelbase configuration. BMW plans to exclusively produce and sell the long-wheelbase version of the 2 Series Gran Coupe in China, under the separate codename F78. The global market will receive the standard-wheelbase version, codenamed F74.
Speculation suggests that the global version of the 2 Series Gran Coupe will enter production first, in November, followed by the Chinese long-wheelbase version in January 2025. The Chinese model will be offered solely with gasoline engines, while BMW plans to include diesel options for the European market. However, there are no plans for plug-in hybrid or electric versions at this time.
The introduction of a long-wheelbase variant for the Chinese market adds a unique aspect to its lineup, with the global standard-wheelbase version set to follow shortly.
