BMW has recently unveiled their all new vehicle, the 2-series. The 2-series was initially known as the 1-series coupe. It follows BMW’s traditional naming conventions where all 2-door versions(coupes and convertibles) start with an even number while sedans and SUV’s start with an odd number. The 2-series coupe shares its underpinnings with the recently launched 1-series hatchback and as a result shares a few body panels too. Compared to the 1-series coupe dimensions have marginally increased. The 2-series is 7cm longer and 3cm wider. Headroom and boot space have also been increased based on customer feedback.
The 2-series continues to have the rear wheel drive layout just like the one found on the 1-series which will surely make it fun to drive. It is expected to have two petrol engine options. A 2.0L 4-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine which produces 182bhp. This engine is mated to a 6-speed manual gearbox. The 2.0L 228i is offered with two special trims, the Sport Line and M Sport. The Sportline version gets a special interior trim, 18 inch wheels and high-gloss black finish for exterior trim. The M Sport additionally gets a slightly lowered suspension, lightweight wheels and sports seats.
There will also be a performance version of offer, the m235i(pictured above). It will be powered by a 3.0L twin-turbo straight six-cylinder version which produces 322hp has a 0–60mph time of under five seconds. It will come with two transmission options, a 6-speed manual or an 8-speed automatic gearbox. As it is a performance version it gets adaptive suspension, better brakes and exhaust and Michelin Pilot Super Sports tires. With this engine and features it is expected to be even faster than the 1M.
There will also be an inline 2.0L 4-cylinder turbocharged diesel version on offer which produces 182bhp. Initially though it is only expected to be launched in the base trim. It will be mated to a 6-speed manual gearbox. BMW could possibly launch a 6-cylinder diesel engine at a later stage for the enthusiasts.
The 2-Series is expected to be well-equipped with features like Adaptive Headlights, High beam assistant, dual-zone climate control, rear-view camera , Parking Assistant, Tire pressure monitor, iDrive multimedia interface with a 6.5-inch display. A wide-screen 8.8-inch display equipped with navigation system and Touch Controller is available as an optional extra. For safety the 2-series comes equipped with front, side airbags, head and knee airbags. It also comes with BMW’s Driving Assistant option and active hood system for the safety of pedestrians.
The 2-Series Coupe models are expected to arrive in the first quarter of 2014. BMW may also plan to develop a convertible, Gran Coupe and maybe even a sedan version of the 2-series but all this will be purely based and determined by the market reaction.
