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When you hear 2 Series these days you might think of the Grand Tourer MPV or even the Gran Coupé, which is more along the lines of a 1 Series saloon. But it’s the two-door rear wheel drive 2 Series Coupé that most would argue is the REAL 2 Series. Now in it’s second generation, we drove the new 220d M Sport to see if it’s as fun to drive as it looks.
BMW 2 Series Exterior
The first thing you notice on the 2 Series Coupé is the grille, which is noticeably different to other BMWs that we are used to and seems to be all one piece instead of individual gaps. This is one of my favourite things about the car and flanked by the newly designed single lens LED headlights that come as standard, the front of this car is truly distinctive.
Our test car was finished in Portimoa Blue, which if I was buying this car is the paint I would go for as it complements the BMW branding and style perfectly.
At the rear, there certainly is a lot going on, you’ve got the rear boot spoiler which is part of the M Sport package and a number of interesting dips and creases that give what is a small enough car a more muscular profile from the back.
BMW 2 Series Interior
Inside its noticeably similar to the 3 Series, be it with smaller dimensions. The seats are comfortable and supportive and there are high-quality materials used throughout that would be expected from a premium car of its calibre.
You get all the infotainment featured in the other BMW models which includes AppleCar Play and Android Auto Bluetooth connectivity.
Obviously there is not much room in the back and headroom with the sloped rear window is pretty much at a minimum, but that’s not what this car was built for, it was built with the driver in mind.
BMW 2 Series Coupe Driving
Because the 220d has a diesel engine doesn’t necessarily mean it lacks any performance or is much less exciting to drive than the petrol variant. The 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbodiesel engine has 190hp, which is more than the 220i petrol engine which produces 184hp. And with CO2 emissions as low as 122g/km it’s more economical.
There is plenty of punch behind the 220d, particularly in Sport driving mode. The eight-speed automatic gearbox, which comes as standard in all 2 Series versions, is smooth and reacts quickly if you decide to switch out of automatic mode and use the steering wheel paddles.
The steering is sharp and very responsive, it almost sticks to the road when taking corners. And because of the shortness and lightness of the car it handles that bit better than the 3 Series.
BMW 2 Series Models & Price
The 2 Series Coupé comes with three engine choices, starting with the 220i 184hp 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine with a price from €51,032. Next is the 230i which uses the same engine but has an output of 243hp thanks to few tune ups. This will set you back €59,785. And finally, the 190hp 220d 2.0-litre diesel model that we tested with a starting price of €52,233.
All models start with the M Sport trim, with an M Performance trim also available in the line-up.
Verdict 4.5/5
The new 2 Series Coupé is a real all-rounder with more style than the 3 Series and beautifully balanced driving performance. Suited for everyday driving with the added extras of sporty coupe looks and excellent handling. The diesel engine doesn’t sound as good as the petrol but doesn’t lack much else and is definitely a more economical choice.