Sneak peek: BMW 2-series Gran Coupe is subtly handsome
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More posh: The second-generation BMW 2-series Gran Coupe was unveiled in Munich in October.
PHOTO: BMW
MUNICH – The BMW 2-series Gran Coupe (GC) enters its second generation and continues as the smallest saloon available from the Bavarian motorcar manufacturer.
At first glance, this car is the spitting image of its predecessor. Look closer, and the subtly refined features come through.
First, the grille is slimmer and the bonnet slopes down more, giving the front end a sleeker look. The profile looks similar to the old model’s, however.
BMW claims that the car’s C-pillar sweeps out further from the body to create a more muscular look. To this reviewer, the new car’s bulging fenders certainly carry hints of a design that has received some BMW M treatment.
The rear looks more cohesive now with the licence plate being located higher up and between the lamp clusters, instead of being below the lights.
With the same wheelbase as its predecessor’s, passenger space remains unchanged.
Like with the BMW 1-series replacement, there is a new curved, one-piece display that houses the user interface and digital driver’s instruments.
The cabin looks more premium than the outgoing model. But the iDrive control knob is no more, so all the digital menus can be accessed only using the touchscreen, which is a pity.
The 2-series GC will be available in the middle of 2025 in the M235 xDrive form. This has a 2-litre turbocharged engine with 317hp and 400Nm of torque. Four-wheel drive is standard in this M version.
BMW also announced the 220 Gran Coupe, which is a front-wheel-drive model powered by a 1.5-litre engine making 170hp. This version has not been confirmed for Singapore.
More cohesive: New 2-series has more pronounced rear haunches.
PHOTO: BMW
Going by how BMW has been introducing variants that seem specially tailored for Singapore’s demand, it may not be a surprise to find a low-powered, 1.5-litre engine version of the 2-series available here in future.
This will qualify the BMW for the Category A certificate of entitlement, just like the outgoing 216i model in the racy M Sport trim.
BMW M235 xDrive Gran Coupe
Price: $315,000 to $325,000 with certificate of entitlement (estimated)
Engine: 1,998cc, turbocharged, 16-valve 4-cylinder
Transmission: Seven-speed dual-clutch and paddle shift
Power: 300hp at 5,750-6,000rpm
Torque: 400Nm at 2,000-4,500rpm
0-100kmh: 4.9 seconds
Top speed: 250kmh
Fuel consumption: 7.6 litre/100km to 8.1 litre/100km (combined)
Agents: Eurokars Automobiles, Performance Motors
