#74 BMW 2-Series Coupe – Small can be seductive

It's now becoming a trend that upscale is going small. Buyers increasingly want smaller cars with precise dynamics, premium cabins and a badge that represents the finer things in life. Buyers who want an athletic handler with two doors and impeccable pedigree will find plenty to like in the All-New BMW 2 Series. BMW has always had compact performance gems in its line-ups, and the beloved 2002, launched in 1962, draws the most appropriate spiritual comparison to the All-New 2-Series. But the All-New 2-Series isn't exactly new. Much as the BMW 3-Series has spun off its coupe and drop top into the 4-Series, the 1-Series coupe and convertible have also evolved into an even number.

BMW 2-Series Coupe

Design

Lines tapering down dynamically towards the BMW kidney grille lend the front end of the BMW 2-Series Coupe a forward-surging presence. The modified contours of the headlight units narrow at their inner extremes, while a standard accent strip - or, if the optional bi-xenon lights are fitted, an LED accent light - cuts across the top of the hallmark BMW twin circular lights. The lower air intake is split into three sections. The two outer elements are particularly large and their outlines replicate the form of the headlight units. The side view of the BMW 2-Series Coupe features a long bonnet, short overhangs, set-back passenger compartment and door openers integrated into the swage line. The striking rear of the All-New 2-Series Coupe is emphasized by the single-piece light units reaching far into the car's sides in the L-shape familiar from other BMW models. An unmistakable night design is provided by the L-shaped LED rear light strips within the units. The third brake light positioned at the upper edge of the rear window is also fed by LED units.

Refined power unit

Performance

BMW TwinPower Turbo technology ensures an unbeatable balance between driving pleasure and fuel economy. Under the All-New 2-Series BMW is a four-cylinder power unit putting out 135 kW/184 hpand a maximum torque figure of 270Nm. The All-New BMW 2-Series sprints from 0 to 100 km/h in 7.0 seconds on the way to a top speed of 235 km/h (automatic: 230 km/h). The average fuel consumption of the All-New BMW 2-Series Coupe stands at between 6.1 and 6.3-litres per 100 kilometres. As these figures confirm, the All-New BMW 2-Series Coupe has 10 kW (13hp) more power than its predecessor.

Cockpit 

Interior

The dominant themes of the All-New BMW 2-Series Coupe's interior are the driver-focused design of the cockpit, contemporary functionality and high-quality materials. An Easy Entry function for the front seats facilitates access to the two rear seats, which offer 21 millimetres more legroom than the outgoing Coupe, while headroom for the driver and front passenger has grown by a similar extent. Functionality levels are raised another notch by features including large storage compartments in the doors. The structure of the surfaces for the instrument panel, centre console and door trim is dominated by the "layering" effect created by various overlapping surfaces. The length of the doors is emphasised by the converging lines of the door trim elements. The boot of the All-New BMW 2-Series Coupe has grown by 20 litres and now offers 390 litres of capacity. The width of the tailgate aperture between the rear lights is 38 millimetres greater than that offered by the outgoing Coupe. The standard 60: 40 split/folding rear seat bench ensures additional variability when it comes to making maximum use of the car's load-carrying potential.

Striking rear 

Verdict

The All-New BMW 2-Series is worth its badge. The All-New 2-series Coupe is classier, larger, and practical than the model it replaces. However, just like the 4-Series and 6-Series Coupes, it is destined for those with a liking for two sports coupe. Otherwise if practicality is what suits your needs, the 1-series is probably the right choice for you.