Updated BMW 2 Series Coupé and 473bhp M2 revealed
M2 can hit 62mph in four seconds dead
Hot on the heels of the updated 1 Series, BMW has revealed a series of revisions for the 2 Series Coupé line-up.
There’s a sharper look outside, updated cabin details and a new infotainment system, all designed to boost the sporty two-door machine’s appeal.
Range of petrol engines
The UK line-up starts with the 220i, which features a 181bhp 2-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine that’s good for a 0-62mph time of 7.5 seconds and a top speed of 146mph. This model is rear-wheel drive, as is the 230i, which uses the same engine tuned to produce 242bhp. This reduces the 0-62mph time to 5.9 seconds, while this model’s top speed is electronically limited to 155mph.
The entry-level 220i costs from £36,865 while the 230i costs £40,320, with both getting an eight-speed automatic gearbox.
Rounding off the regular 2 Series line-up is the punchier M240i. This is powered by an in-line six-cylinder petrol engine that creates up to 369bhp, while BMW’s four-wheel-drive “xDrive” system sends power to the front wheels, too, albeit with a bias towards the rear.
As with the 230i, top speed is limited to 155mph, but a quicker 0-62mph time of 4.3 seconds is quoted. This model costs £46,045.
BMW M2 gets a power boost
At the top of the range is the latest M2. This has been given an extra 20bhp, so the 3-litre twin-turbocharged straight-six now has up to 473bhp being sent to the rear wheels, which enables the eight-speed automatic model (a six-speed manual is available, too) to accelerate from 0-62mph in four seconds dead.
While the automatic version costs from £63,360, prices for the manual haven’t been announced. As a guide, though, it’s worth noting the outgoing car cost slightly less when fitted with the six-speed gearbox.
It’s also worth looking at the performance figures: the M2 with the gearlever produces slightly less torque (twisting force from the engine) than the auto — 406lb ft, compared with 443lb ft for the auto — while the 0-62mph time is a couple of tenths slower, at 4.2 seconds.
Both versions of the M2 are electronically limited to 155mph but BMW offers the M Driver’s Package, which raises the limiter to 177mph.
Subtle restyle with more colours to choose from
Every model in the 2 Series line-up benefits from revised looks. On the standard cars, the grille surround is now finished in pearlescent chrome, while the side skirts and rear apron are now body coloured instead of black.
The M240i features new high-gloss black trim pieces for the front and rear bumpers and the door mirrors.
Completing the exterior update are new alloy wheel designs, while new body colours on offer include a pair of matte finishes.
The M2’s exterior updates are more subtle. The basic shape remains the same, with wide arches that mean it’s distinctly different to the standard 2 Series, but detail tweaks include a new black finish for the two pairs of exhaust pipes at the back, and a black M2 badge on the boot lid.
There are new colours here, too, including Sao Paulo Yellow, Fire Red, Portimao Blue and Java Green, while the M2’s black alloy wheels can now be specced in silver.
Enhanced interior and tech
Inside, all versions of the 2 Series now come with BMW’s Operating System 8.5, with improved functionality and additional apps. The controls for the climate system are now touch-sensitive, while redesigned air vents have new physical controls.
The LED ambient lighting now offers a “waterfall” effect and the option of nine different colour palettes from which to choose.
New steering wheels are available, as well — flat-bottomed for the first time — as are different upholstery and dashboard trim options.
The new 2 Series range is available to order now, with first deliveries expected in August.
Related articles
- If you found news on the updated BMW 2 Series range interesting, you might want to read our review of the BMW i5 saloon
- You might also like to read our review of the BMW M3 Touring
- And don’t miss the new-look BMW 1 Series
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