BMW unveils the new 2 Series Coupe

BMW will open a new chapter in its tradition of sporty driving pleasure with the introduction of the new BMW 2 Series Coupe.

In the process, it will set a new benchmark for handling and dynamism in its class. The new 2 Series Coupe embodies sporting prowess in an uncompromised, concentrated form, with a vehicle concept focused squarely on driving excellence, an athletic design, powerful engines and sophisticated chassis technology.

The exterior dimensions of the new compact sports car provide the ideal starting point for excellent driving dynamics. A length of 4,537mm and width of 1,838mm represent increases over its predecessor of 105mm and 64mm respectively.

At a height of 1,390mm, the new car also stands at 28mm lower than its predecessor, lowering the vehicle's centre of gravity and delivering exceptional handling characteristics when combined with the widened track widths.

Three-dimensional surfaces, triangular forms and lines shape the striking front end of the new 2 Series Coupe. Prominently flared wheel arches and a muscular power dome at the centre of the bonnet give a clear indication of the Coupe's dynamic driving characteristics. The BMW kidney grille is horizontal in design, and features vertically arranged air flaps rather than conventional bars. Beyond serving an aesthetic function, the flaps open electrically when the engine has a need for increased air intake.

Behind the standard-fit full-LED head lights, a long bonnet, swooping roofline, and powerfully flared wheel arches define the side view of the new 2 Series Coupe. At the rear, stylishly darkened rear lights boast compact contours, their surfaces formed by light clusters with three-dimensional sculpting.

Underneath, chassis components originally designed for the BMW 4 Series models have been adapted specially for the new BMW 2 Series Coupe. The two-joint spring strut front axle and five-link rear axle minimise weight and optimise rigidity, and standard fit lift-related dampers control body movement when driving over bumps.

Available as an optional extra, the M Sport suspension brings firmer responses from the lift-related suspension, and also includes variable sport steering.

With an in-line six-cylinder engine crowning the 2 Series Coupe lineup, the new vehicle promises few comparable rivals in its class. The 3.0-litre straight-six engine in the range-topping M240i xDrive Coupe reinforces its claim to sporting prowess. With a maximum power output of 368bhp and peak torque of 500Nm, the new M240i xDrive Coupe accelerates from zero to 100 km/h in an impressive 4.3 seconds.

The entry-level 220i Coupe comes with a four-cylinder petrol engine generating 181bhp, and the 220d Coupe features a two-stage turbodiesel mated to 48V mild hybrid technology, guaranteeing exceptional fuel economy. All variants will come as standard with with an eight-speed Steptronic transmission.

Inside, the driver-focused cockpit design and control panel on the centre console accentuate the sporting aura of the vehicle. The standard fitment of sport seats and a sport leather steering wheel feeds into an engaging driving experience.

With the taper in the rear section of the roofline, and surface treatment of the instrument panel and door panels, the 2 Series Coupe creates a cocooning feel for both drivers and passengers.

High-quality materials and precise workmanship create a premium ambience that exceeds that of the predecessor model. Interior trim strips in the new Dark Graphite matt variant come as standard, as well as trapezoidal accent surfaces above the armrests. If the ambient lighting package is specified, their perforated surfaces are stylishly backlit.

While the new 2 Series Coupe comes as standard with cloth and Sensatec upholstery, the BMW M240i xDrive Coupe and cars in M Sport specification have Alcantara and Sensatec trim, alongside other M-specific design features such as an M Sport leather steering wheel. Other trim options include perforated Sensatec and Vernasca leather, as well as a Harman Kardon sound system.

The new BMW 2 Series Coupe enhances safety and comfort with an expanded selection of driver assistance systems as compared to the predecessor model. Standard safety equipment includes front-collision warning, Speed Limit Info, Lane Departure Warning and Cruise Control with brake function.

BMW's latest technology can be specified as options too, such as BMW Head-up Display which projects driving-related information onto the windscreen, and the BMW Drive Recorder integrated dashcam.

Both drivers and passengers will benefit from the extended possibilities enabled by the inclusion of BMW Operating System 7 as standard. Drivers can adjust the control interface to their own liking, from the central display touchscreen, BMW Controller, multifunction buttons on the steering wheel or voice control.

It will also give customers access to a range of digital services, such as the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant, BMW Digital Key, and Remote Software Upgrades.

The standard fit BMW Live Cockpit comprises the iDrive operating system with 8.8-inch control display and a 5.1-inch colour display in the instrument cluster. The optional BMW Live Cockpit Professional features a high-resolution instrument cluster behind the steering wheel, with a massive screen diagonal of 12.3 inches and a 10.25-inch control display. With smartphone connectivity specified, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto can be integrated the car's operating system.