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This is the BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe, a new alternative to the Audi A3 Saloon and Mercedes CLA Coupe. Prices in Ireland start from just under €36,000, making it one of the most affordable models in BMW’s line-up alongside the 1 Series, which it shares a lot in common with. With interesting styling, a range of frugal engines and what could be one of the best interiors in its class, this is likely to become one of BMW’s best sellers But how does it compare to its rivals? We’re going to find out in this video.
The 2 Series Gran Coupe is the baby in BMW’s Gran Coupe range which includes the 4 Series Gran Coupe and the 8 Series Gran Coupe. The styling of the 2 Series Gran Coupe is a bit hit and miss. Some of the things we like include the large enclosed kidney grille up front, these frameless windows and the sloping roof line, which leads to a striking light arrangement at the rear.
BMW offers the Gran Coupe in three specifications, SE, Sport and M Sport. We’re driving the mid-range Sport model which is well equipped with alloy wheels, shadow line black detailing and LED foglights. Our test car ticks the options list with these upgraded 18-inch bicolour alloy wheels and privacy glass in the rear.
The interior of the 2 Series Gran Coupe is probably its best asset with a stylish driver’s area incorporating this excellent digital instrument cluster and BMW’s latest touch screen infotainment system. It’s easy to use and can be controlled by various means including the rotary dial, voice and gesture control. The front seats are spacious and the seating position is comfortable, while there is enough room in the rear for two passengers, though headroom will be tight for taller passengers due to the sloping roof line. With 430 litres of boot space and a useful double loading floor the 2 Series Gran Coupe offers decent practicality too, but the Mercedes CLA edges it slightly in this area with a larger boot.
We are driving the entry-level model in the 2 Series Gran Coupe range, the 218i. It has a 1.5-litre turbocharged three-cylinder petrol engine that’s good enough for 140hp and 0-100km/h in 8.7 seconds. Although the 218i won’t win any awards for thrills, it’s smooth and well suited to driving around town, while it’s rather economical too.
