The all-new 2022 BMW 2 Series Coupé comes with distinctive styling, sharper handling, supreme performance, and more space compared to the previous model. The second-generation 2-Series carries the rear-wheel-drive configuration and looks like a BMW, but not like any other car from the Bavarian automaker.
BMW pinned the new 2 Series Coupé on a new chassis, giving it a stretched wheelbase and a broader stance, but a lower height compared to the previous model. The wheelbase stretches to 51mm while its width is 54mm at the front and 31mm at the rear (the M240i is 63mm at the front and 35mm at the back).
The highlights on the front fascia are Bi-LED headlights and a single-frame kidney grille, which has functional slates. These operate automatically to cool down the engine when required. The 3D-styled rear lights at the outer extremes of the rear, in addition to the spoiler lip of the boot, indeed make the Coupé stand out.
BMW South African offers the new 2022 2 Series Coupé in three trim levels - 220i, 220d, and range-topper M240i, with the M2, planned for later.
The base petrol 220i houses a 2.0-litre petrol four-cylinder turbocharged engine, generating 135kW and 300Nm. The the 220d features the famous 2.0-litre turbodiesel with a 48V mild-hybrid system, pumping out 140kW and 400Nm. The extra power here makes it quicker to accelerate to 100 km/h from a standstill position (7.0 seconds vs. 7.5 seconds of 220i).
The flagship M240i gets the fruity 3.0-litre turbocharged 6-cylinder petrol motor churning out a stout 285 kW and 500 Nm of torque, enough to hit 100 km/h in only 4.3 seconds.
All the mills send power to the wheels through an eight-speed Steptronic automatic sports transmission with paddle shifters to offer you more control. While the entry-level 220i and mid-level 220d come with a standard rear-wheel-drive layout, the M240i gets the xDrive all-wheel-drive (for the first time here), which is rear-wheel influenced. Thanks to the modified chassis, two-joint spring strut front axle and five-link rear axle, and optional adaptive M suspension, this 2 Series Coupé is more fun to drive than the previous model.
BMW claims fuel economy of 6.3 l/100km for 220i, 4.8 l/100km for 220d and 8.0 l/100km for the M240i xDrive.
Inside you should expect all the upmarket tech you get in a BMW, starting with the 8.8-inch central touchscreen coupled with a 5.1-inch instrument display. The screens let you benefit from navigation, BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant, BMW Digital Key, real-time traffic, connected music, and remote software updates.
The key safety facilities comprise adaptive cruise control, front, and rear park distance control, front collision warning, active blind-spot assist, lane departure warning, and speed limit information on the driver assistance side.
The 2022 BMW 2 Series 220i starts at R771,900, the diesel variant goes for R819,278, while the flagship M240i xDrive sets you back R1,062,420. Yes, it is likely the model with the least competition in the BMW's line-up, but it still offers a massive variety of fun factors, a comprehensive warranty, and a five-year/100,000km motor plan. (Prices correct at time of publication.)
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Please note the imagery supplied in this blog was taken off www.topgear.com
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