F22 2 Series Coupe

BMW replaced the E82 1 Series Coupe with the F22 2 Series Coupe in March 2014.

Three models are offered initially – a 220i, a 220d and a flagship M235i.

Based on the F20 1 Series platform, the ‘2’ nomenclature falls in line with the even-numbered F30 3 Series and F10 5 Series-derived F32 4 Series and F12 6 Series models respectively.

Like the recently released 4 Series Coupe, the 2 Series Coupe brandishes BMW’s latest styling details, including the larger double-kidney grille, ribbed sides and a multi-layered tail-light effect.

Compared to the 1 Series Coupe, everything but the car’s height grows, yet there’s more headroom inside as well as measurably greater leg and shoulder space, while even the 390L boot is a 20L improvement.

The 220i’s EU6 emissions-rated 1997cc 2.0-litre TwinPower turbo produces 135kW of power between 5000 and 6250rpm, and 270Nm of torque between 1250 and 4500rpm, for a 0-100km/h claim of 7.0 seconds.

On the economy front, the $2500 more expensive 220d consumes just 4.4L/100km compared to the 220i’s 6.0L/100km rating, thanks to an EU5 certified 1995cc 2.0-litre turbo-diesel engine delivering 135kW at 4000rpm and 380Nm from 1750 to 2750rpm. And yet it is barely any slower to 100km/h.

But the performance headline act for now is the 235i’s M135i-based 2979cc 3.0-litre turbo inline-six another EU6 rater, and with 240kW between 5800 and 6000rpm and 450Nm available from 1300 to 4500rpm, it will sprint to 100km/h in just 4.8 seconds on the way to a speed-limited 250km/h V-max, yet still average 7.6L/100km.

BMW offers a six-speed manual as a no-cost option alternative to the standard ZF-supplied eight-speed torque converter automatic transmission dubbed Steptronic.

Either gearbox drives the rear wheels in usual BMW tradition while weight distribution is pegged at 50:50 front to rear.

The nose contains a double-joint spring MacPherson strut system while the rear houses a five-link independent rear end, while electric power steering in both BMW’s Servotronic system.

Variable ratio steering, adaptive suspension and uprated brakes are an option, but a full five-star ENCAP safety rating is standard courtesy of a raft of active and passive safety features.