BMW 2 Series Coupe

Overview

With its compact yet sporty attributes, the BMW 2 Series Coupe manages to look special, despite entry-level proposition. The BMW 2 Series Coupe is targeted towards that particular set of people, who want the prowess of a typical BMW Coupe with friendly driving dynamics and performance.

Interior & Features

Step inside the BMW 2 Series Coupe, and you will once again relate this car to the 1 Series hatchback. The entire dashboard and cabin layout is a direct lift off from the 1 Series, which explains the simplicity and lack of futuristic appeal in the cabin.

The BMW 2 Series Coupe features a boring layout for the instrument console and the three-spoke steering wheel, which looks and feels one generation old. Tilted towards the driver, the overall center console is quite wide and is functional with an array of buttons for climate control and infotainment system. The infotainment system screen is mounted atop at the center of the dashboard and features all the modern connectivity options. Thanks to its compact dimension, the interior space, especially at the rear, is at a premium.

For the 2 Series Coupe, BMW offers three interior trim options. The entry-level ‘Sport’ trim features anthracite finish with red or grey highlights along with brushed aluminum and glossy black highlights. The mid-level ‘Luxury’ trim features ‘Dakota’ leather upholstery with oyster dark highlights and silver matt inserts. The top-spec ‘M-Sport’ trim features alcantara anthracite with blue piping and M-style highlights.

Exterior

Since the BMW 2 Series Coupe is based on the entry-level 1 Series hatchback, one will instantly realize how compact and sporty the 2 Series Coupe looks. As any other BMW, the 2 Series Coupe also features the most familiar attribute – the twin-kidney grille. However, unlike the other modern BMWs, the headlamps are separated from the grille but do feature full LED lighting.

Given its compact dimensions, sloping roofline and presence of frameless doors, the side profile of the 2 Series Coupe looks very dramatic and manages to catch one’s repetitive attention. The typical-for-a-BMW feature of a strong and thick character line flowing all the way from the front fender to the rear one accentuates the sporty persona of the 2 Series Coupe.

As compared to the front and side profiles, the rear end of the 2 Series Coupe feels slightly one generation old, with a very simple and basic design for the boot as well as the L-shaped LED tail lamps.

Ride & Handling

With the 2 Series Coupe, BMW is offering three different driving modes – Eco, Comfort, and Pro, all of which differ in terms of suspension settings and stiffness. Then there is the variable sport steering, which offers precise driving dynamics, thus making the 2 Series Coupe a driver’s delight.

Engine & Fuel Consumption

BMW offers the 2 Series Coupe in four engine options. Starting from the smallest, the 1.5-litre three-cylinder engine (218i) develops 136 PS of power and 220 Nm of torque. Then comes the bigger 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine, which is available in two states of tune –of power and 290 Nm of torque in the 220i variant, and 252 PS of power and 350 Nm of torque in the 230i variant. The range-topping 3.0-litre twin turbo V6 engine (M240i) produces 340PS of power and 500 Nm of torque.

Braking & Safety

Even after being an entry-level offering, the 2 Series Coupe is equipped with a sufficient number of safety features, the list of which includes six airbags, ABS with EBD and Brake Assist, run flat tyres, Lane Departure Warning, Forward Collision Warning, cornering brake control, dynamic traction control and hill start assist.

Verdict

When it comes to practicality, the BMW 2 Series Coupe feels a bit lacking due to the limited space at the rear and slightly stiff ride quality. Also, it doesn’t feel as modern and tech-packed like the new generation premium BMWs, especially on the inside. But when it comes to pure driving pleasure, the 2 Series Coupe offers unadulterated driving experience, thanks to the brilliant engine options and perfect balance of suspension and steering settings.