2014 BMW 2 Series is a 1 and then some

Thu, 24 Oct 2013

Pricing for the new coupe starts at $32,100 for the 228i and $43,100 for the M235i.

BMW has taken the wraps off its replacement for the 1 Series, the 2 Series, ahead of an official debut at the 2014 North American International Auto Show in January. Pricing for the new coupe starts at $32,100 for the 228i and $43,100 for the M235i that we showed you earlier today – not including $925 for destination. And before you break out the torches and pitchforks, know that those numbers compare favorably with the current 128i Coupe and 135is Coupe, which start at $31,500 and $43,550, respectively.

We've told you all about the performance of the M235i, but we'll do a quick refresher before moving on to the new 228i. Power sits at 322 ponies and 332 pound-feet of torque, the latter of which is available at an ultra-accessible 1,300 to 4,500 rpm. It'll scamper to 60 in just 4.8 seconds when fitted with the eight-speed automatic, top out at 155 mph, and return 22 miles per gallon in the city and 32 mpg on the highway. The M235i is also available with a six-speed manual, for those who prefer a do-it-yourself setup.

The 228i, meanwhile, is going to sound very familiar. It uses the same 2.0-liter, turbocharged four-cylinder engine found in the 328i sedan, pumping out 240 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque. Like the M235i, that torque is easy to get at, as it's all available between 1,250 and 4,500 rpm. Equipped with an eight-speed auto (the six-speed stick is also available) the 228i can hit 60 in 5.4 seconds. Fuel economy is rated at 23 mpg city and 35 mpg on the highway. And like all recent BMWs, both the 228i and and M235i benefit from the Driving Experience Control, a rocker switch to the left of the shifter that allows drivers to switch between a number of modes for the car's suspension, throttle, transmission, steering and engine settings.

But things get a little more complicated when we look at the different variations within each model. The 228i can be had in Sport and M Sport trims, whereas the M235i only comes one way. With the 228i, the Sport Line consists of 18-inch wheels, ambient lighting on the interior, a blacked-out grille and front fascia air intakes, as well as a blacked-out rear apron. The cabin also features a few upholstery and trim choices unique to the Sport Line. If dynamics are more your thing, the M Sport is the box you'll want to tick. The suspension is retuned and the car sits 10 millimeters lower to the ground, riding on a set of unique, lightweight 18-inch alloy wheels. An aero kit adds some aggression and some function to the car's exterior while a special version of BMW's kidney grille has been fitted. In the cabin, you'll find sport seats, along with a range of M Sport-only dash trims. Customers can choose from Variable Sport Steering, an M Sport Braking System and an Adaptive M suspension as optional extras on the 228i.

BMW will not offer a standard 235i – only the M235i. Our best guess is that since the 228i now boasts an additional 10 hp and 58 lb-ft versus its predecessor, and can be had with the optional M goodies mentioned above, there's not really a need for something between it and the top-end M235i.

There's an extensive press release on the new 2 Series, which is available for your perusal down below. We'll have more on the BMW 2 Series when it makes its public debut at the 2014 Detroit Auto Show in January.

The All-New BMW 2 Series Coupe

A new dimension for The Ultimate Driving Machine

Woodcliff Lake, N.J. – October 24, 2013 – 6:00pm EDT/3:00pm PDT. . . BMW today announced the introduction of an entirely new model series with the introduction of the all-new BMW 2 Series Coupe. This new take on The Ultimate Driving MachineTM will arrive in the US in the first quarter of 2014 as the 228i and the M235i. The BMW M235i, the first M Performance Automobile offered in the US, includes an impressive list of performance enhancing features. This successor to the successful 1 Series Coupe will continue the decades-long tradition of premium sub-compact coupes with impeccable driving dynamics when it makes its world debut at the North American International Auto Show in January 2014. The 2014 BMW 2 Series Coupe will be offered at a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price of $33,025 for the 228i and $44,025 for the M235i, including $925 destination and handling.

The BMW 2 Series Coupe

BMW celebrates the premiere of another new model series – The BMW 2 Series Coupe which raises the bar in the premium sub-compact segment in terms of dynamic ability, aesthetic appeal and emotional allure; a distinctive vehicle concept unique in its segment, with a two-door body in classic three-box design typical of BMW Coupes, four seats, rear-wheel drive and a pair of engines and chassis set-up focused squarely on sporting ability; market launch from March 2014, line-up to include a BMW M Performance Automobile – the BMW M235i Coupe.

Newly designed Coupe series with significantly larger dimensions than its predecessor, the BMW 1 Series Coupe; length increased by 2.8 inches (72 mm) to 174.5 inches (4,432 mm), width by 1.3 inches (32 mm) to 69.8 inches (1,774 mm), wheelbase by 1.3 inches (30 mm) to 105.9 inches (2,690 mm), front track width by 1.6 inches (41 mm) to 59.9 inches (1,521 mm) and rear track width by 1.7 inches (43 mm) to 61.3 inches (1,556 mm); improved interior space, including 0. 7 inches (19 mm) of extra front headroom and 0.8 inches (21 mm) of additional rear legroom. Trunk capacity increases by 0.7 cu.ft. (20 liters) to 13.8 cu.ft. (390 liters), based on EU measures. Optimized aerodynamic details result in a low Cd of just 0.29 for the 228i Coupe.

Engines with BMW TwinPower Turbo technology deliver segment-leading figures in terms of both sporting ability and efficiency. The BMW 228i Coupe is the first sub-compact BMW model to be powered by the 240 hp version of the 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine. The range-topping, the BMW M235i, is the most powerful gasoline-driven BMW M Performance Automobile. It has a unique M Performance 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder with TwinPower technology delivering 322 hp and 332 lb-ft of torque. It features M-specific chassis tuning which, for the US will include standard M Adaptive suspension, M Sport Braking system, variable sport steering and Michelin Pilot Super Sports tires. Even the exhaust has been specifically tuned for the M235i.

Efficiency is further increased by the extensive use of BMW EfficientDynamics technology, including Air Curtains and the Auto Start/Stop function in conjunction with both manual and automatic transmissions; ECO PRO mode is activated via the standard Driving Experience Control switch and includes a coasting function in conjunction with the 8-speed automatic transmission.

Unmistakable BMW handling attributes and impressive ride comfort thanks to rear-wheel drive, longitudinally mounted engines, perfectly balanced distribution of weight and sophisticated chassis technology; double-pivot spring strut front suspension and five-link rear suspension with tuning tailored to each 2 Series model; variable sport steering, M Sport braking system and Adaptive M suspension with electronically controlled shock absorbers are all standard on the M235i in the US and optional on the 228i; DSC stability control system including DTC and an electronic locking function for the rear differential as standard; M Performance mechanical limited slip differential available for the BMW M235i Coupe from launch through the Original BMW Accessories range.

High-strength and torsionally stiff body structure developed on the basis of the BMW 1 Series 3- and 5-door, which has been awarded a five-star Euro NCAP crash test rating; extensive occupant protection provided by safety equipment including front, side and head airbags; pedestrian protection is optimized by the active hood and defined front end deformation zones.

High-quality interior with driver-focused cockpit; dual-zone automatic climate control is standard; iDrive operating system is standard in the US, including a 6.5 inch Control Display in exclusive BMW flatscreen design; optional Navigation system includes an 8.8-inch screen and Touch Controller; wide variety of storage compartments, storage areas and cupholders.

Selection of optional driver assistance systems and mobility services from BMW ConnectedDrive unparalleled in the sub-compact segment: High Beam Assistant, Adaptive Headlights, Parking Assistant, rear view camera, Driving Assistant, cruise control system with braking function, extended integration of smartphones and music players, Advanced Real Time Traffic Information (ARTTI) and extended functionality provided by BMW Apps for internet-based services like Facebook and Twitter.

BMW M235i Coupe: Six-cylinder in-line gasoline engine with M Performance TwinPower Turbo technology (twin-scroll turbocharger, High Precision Direct Injection, Valvetronic variable valve timing, Double-Vanos). - Capacity: 2,979 cc - Output: 315 hp at 5,800 – 6,000 rpm, max. torque 332 lb-ft at 1,300 – 4,500 rpm. Acceleration [0 – 60 mph]: 4.8 seconds with 8-speed sport automatic transmission - Top speed: 250 km/h / 155 mph. - Preliminary EPA Mileage Estimates (mpg) – 22 city/32 highway/25 combined for the 8-speed sport automatic. 19 city/28 highway/22 combined for the 6-speed manual.

BMW 228i Coupe: Four-cylinder engine with BMW TwinPower Turbo technology (twin-scroll turbocharger, High Precision Direct Injection, Valvetronic variable valve timing, Double-Vanos. - Capacity: 1,997 cc - Output: 240 hp at 5,000 – 6,500 rpm, max. torque: 258 lb-ft at 1,250 – 4,500 rpm. - Acceleration [0 – 60 mph]: 5.4 seconds with 8-speed sport automatic. - Top speed: 130 mph / 210 km/h (250 km/h / 155 mph with Sport Line or M Sport)

- Preliminary EPA Mileage Estimates (mpg) – 23 city/35 highway/27 combined for the 8-speed sport automatic. 22 city/34 highway/26 combined for the 6-speed manual.

The concept: Driving pleasure times 2.
• Unbeatable driving dynamics in the premium sub-compact segment.
• Emotionally appealing aesthetics in typical BMW Coupe style.
• Sporting tradition dates back to the BMW 2002.

This is not the first time that BMW has treated the sub-compact segment to its customary brand of driving pleasure. The tradition took hold in the US 45 years ago with the introduction of the vaunted BMW 2002. The BMW 1 Series Coupe has fulfilled this role since 2008, its standout position among its rivals rooted most prominently in its rear-wheel-drive concept (still a unique proposition in this class), powerful engines with BMW TwinPower Turbo technology and a compelling premium character. The BMW 2 Series Coupe now takes the levels of driving pleasure in a sub-compact coupe to even greater heights. The new two-door cuts a impressive figure with its distinctive body design, a choice of two powerful engines and specially configured chassis technology.

There is clear differentiation between the BMW 2 Series Coupe and the current 1 Series with the new model assuming a character all its own. This differentiation is immediately recognizable in the design of the new car, but it also makes its presence felt in terms of performance. The BMW 2 Series Coupe is an even more eye-catching creation than its predecessor, the successful BMW 1 Series Coupe. As well as a standalone appearance and increased dimensions, there is also greater depth to its product substance in terms of both technology and standard equipment. The result is a new dimension in driving dynamics, aesthetic appeal and premium allure in the sub-compact segment, highlighted by the "2" in the new car's model designation. The number 2 has denoted the presence of a sporting driving experience in a sub-compact two-door car for 45 years – ever since the introduction of the BMW 2002.

Characteristic features of a BMW Coupe.

The specific vehicle concept behind the BMW 2 Series Coupe – unique in its segment – is faithfully reflected in its body design. The two-door model is first and foremost a BMW Coupe, and the design features that identify a member of this special breed – a three-box body with clearly defined trunk and low-slung silhouette, a long hood, doors with frameless windows and a dynamically stretched roofline flowing smoothly into the tail – are carried over into a sub-compact model with greater enthusiasm and intent than ever. The ultra-sporty driving characteristics of the BMW 2 Series Coupe – thanks to a choice of two powerful engines and chassis technology tuned to make the perfect pairing – are thus expressed in the design of the exterior. The 240 hp N20 TwinPower Turbo 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine in the BMW 228i Coupe makes its debut in a sub-compact BMW model, and the 322 hp inline six-cylinder engine under the hood of the BMW M235i Coupe earns it top billing as the most powerful gasoline-powered member of the BMW M Performance Automobile line-up.

The specific proportions of the BMW 2 Series Coupe are contained within a body measuring 174.5 inches (4,432 mm) in length. The two-door model is therefore 2.8 inches (72 mm) longer than the outgoing BMW 1 Series Coupe. The new sub-compact Coupe is also 1.3 inches (32 mm) wider than its predecessor at 69.8 inches (1,774 mm), and has a 1.3 inch (30-mm) longer wheelbase (105.9 inches/2,690 mm) and wider tracks (front: 59.9 inches/1,521 mm, + 1.6 inches/41 mm; rear: 61.3 inches/1,556 mm, +1.7 inches/43 mm). At the same time the vehicle height has been lowered by 0.2 inches (5 mm) to 55.8 inches (1,418 mm). The result is an increase in interior space and 0.7 cu.ft. (20 liters) of additional luggage capacity (now 13.8 cu.ft./390 liters, based on EU measures). The BMW 2 Series Coupe also boasts more efficient aerodynamics than both the BMW 1 Series and its predecessor, as reflected in a Cd of 0.29 for the BMW 228i Coupe.

Sporting tradition on a sub-compact footprint.

The BMW 2 Series Coupe builds on the brand's tradition of sub-compact models offering a satisfying degree of driver engagement. And the presence of the 2 in the model designation creates a close link to this heritage. The introduction in 1968 of the BMW 2002, for instance, opened up a whole new vehicle segment in the US. Inspired by its precisely tailored package of powertrain and chassis technology, the two-door Coupe became a standard-bearer for sporty handling and intense driving pleasure in the sub-compact car segment. The BMW 2002 took center stage – in terms of both its popularity and its success in acting as the first building block in the foundation of what is now widely known as The Ultimate Driving Machine. The most spectacular version was the 170 hp BMW 2002 turbo – the first turbocharged model from a European manufacturer.

The design: Strong character cuts a distinctive figure.
• Typical Coupe proportions, dynamic lines, powerful forms.
• Bespoke front and rear detailing accentuates its sporting profile.
Optional Sport Line and M Sport create scope for individualization.

A beguiling blend of sporting prowess and elegance marks out the design of BMW Coupes. And the exterior features which are such a key element of this identity have been carried over to the sub-compact segment car with greater purpose than ever for the BMW 2 Series Coupe. The proportions, lines and surface design of the car have all been tailored to accentuate both the agile driving properties of the two-door and its unique appearance. The BMW 2 Series Coupe has its own specific design language, which secures it a stand-out position in the brand's model range and – most importantly – sets it apart unmistakably from its segment rivals.

Sporting presence, muscular agility and assured elegance come together in the exterior design of the BMW 2 Series Coupe. Defining elements of its interior, meanwhile, include the driver-focused cockpit design you expect of a BMW and a light and contemporary brand of functionality. The car's more clearly distinguished design identity illustrates its progress in moving the game on from its predecessor. The BMW 2 Series Coupe reflects The Ultimate Driving in more concentrated and intense form than ever before in the premium sub-compact segment.

Classic BMW features in a fresh take on the traditional Coupe.

The individual vehicle concept of the BMW 2 Series Coupe is underlined by its specific front and rear end design, dynamically stretched lines and an almost 4.3 inch (110 mm) increase in body length over the BMW 1 Series. Characteristic design elements of a BMW Coupe have been carried over into the sub-compact segment and signature brand features have been given a fresh twist.

Another stand-out feature of BMW Coupes – the hallmark three-box body structure with a clear distinction between roofline and trunk– has a clear presence in the new sub-compact model. Like the side swage lines that wrap around into the tail, this feature picks up on characteristic styling elements of the BMW 2002, drawing a link between the new car and the brand's long tradition of sporting and agile sub-compact models.

Lines tapering down dynamically towards the BMW kidney grille lend the front end of the BMW 2 Series Coupe a forward-surging presence. The modified contours of the headlight units narrow at their inner extremes, while a standard accent strip – or an LED accent light, if the Adaptive Xenon lights are fitted – cuts across the top of the hallmark BMW twin circular lights. The BMW kidney grille, which is separated from the headlights by narrow strips on either side, protrudes clearly from the front of the car and slants forward at a slight angle. The three-dimensional design of the grille surround and its 11 vertical bars reinforce the car's striking appearance. The lower air intake is split into three sections. The two outer elements are particularly large and their outlines replicate the form of the headlight units. Air Curtains are integrated harmoniously into an additional section at the outer edges of the front apron and channel the onrushing air precisely behind the front fenders, causing it to hang over the wheels like a curtain. This reduces turbulence and further enhances the outstanding aerodynamics of the BMW 2 Series Coupe.

The profile of the BMW 2 Series Coupe sees signature brand features like a long hood, short overhangs, set-back passenger compartment, Hofmeister kink and door handles integrated into the swage line blending with coupe-specific design elements, chief among them the slim window graphic and sweeping roofline gliding back smoothly into the rear end. A prominent character line above the door sill sweeps up rearwards of the B-pillar into the rear wheel arch, whose powerfully flared form focuses the mind on the car's rear-wheel drive and swells the BMW 2 Series Coupe's body to its broadest point. The dynamic wedge shape is emphasized, too, by the door sill line itself, which likewise rises up towards the rear. The BMW 2 Series Coupe also has doors with frameless windows and turn signal indicators integrated into the exterior mirrors.

The rear of the BMW 2 Series Coupe offers a broad and powerful stance, an impression reinforced by the single-piece light units reaching far into the car's flanks in the L-shape familiar from other BMW models. An unmistakable night design is provided by the likewise L-shaped LED rear light strips within the units. The third brake light positioned at the upper edge of the rear window is also fed by LEDs.

The lines along the sides of the trunk lid taper downwards slightly. This styling cue, along with the additional crease and suggested diffuser element in the rear apron, accentuates the BMW 2 Series Coupe's road focus and low center of gravity. And yet the new car also has a wider trunk opening than its predecessor.

The exterior paintwork of the BMW 2 Series Coupe can be ordered in a choice of two non-metallic and 10 metallic shades, while customers can also specify Estoril Blue metallic as part of M Sport.

Interior: cockpit design ensures maximum driving pleasure; premium ambience can be enjoyed from four seats.

The dominant themes of the BMW 2 Series Coupe's interior are the driver- focused design of the cockpit, contemporary functionality and high-quality materials. An Easy Entry function for the front seats facilitates access to the two rear seats, which offer 0.8 inches (21 mm) more legroom than the outgoing Coupe, while headroom for the driver and front passenger has grown by a similar extent. Functionality levels are raised another notch by features including large storage compartments in the doors. The structure of the surfaces for the instrument panel, center console and door trim is dominated by the "layering" effect created by various overlapping surfaces. The length of the doors is emphasized by the converging lines of the door trim elements.

The BMW 2 Series Coupe is fitted with the BMW iDrive operating system, which includes a freestanding onboard monitor in flat screen design. The Control Display comes in 6.5 or 8.8-inch form, with Navigation, while the Controller on the center console has a touch-sensitive surface which allows the driver to input characters (if equipped with the Navigation system).

Dakota leather trim is available as an alternative to the standard Sensatec seat surfaces in a choice of three colors. The interior trim strips come in matt Satin Silver as standard but are also optionally available in brushed aluminum or Fineline Stream exquisite wood.

Serving the cause of individual style: BMW Sport Line and M Sport.

The BMW Lines – available as an alternative to standard specification for the BMW 228i Coupe – offer harmoniously coordinated exterior and interior design and equipment features. The BMW Sport Line includes 18-inch light-alloy wheels, ambient lighting with variable use of colors and special seat upholstery, interior trim strip and car key designs as well as a choice of wood or brushed aluminum trim available at no additional cost.

BMW Sport Line brings a high-gloss black finish for the outer air intake surrounds, the front of the kidney grille bars, the cross rib in the center air intake and the rear apron, emphasizing the dynamic credentials of the two-door newcomer. Also available from the launch of the BMW 228i Coupe is M Sport, developed specially for the new model. This option comprises bespoke suspension tuning (including a 10-millimeter drop in ride height and18-inch M light-alloy wheels in double-spoke design), aerodynamically optimized body elements (including large front air intakes, striking side skirts and a diffuser for the rear apron), plus a special design for the BMW kidney grille and an exhaust tailpipe embellisher in high-gloss chrome. In addition to aluminum door sill strips bearing the M logo, features such as sports seats for the driver and front passenger, Aluminum Hexagon interior trim strips with an accent strip in Estoril Blue, a special dial design for the instrument cluster, ambient lighting and an M driver's footrest also combine to bring an intense aura of sporty driving to the interior of the BMW 2 Series Coupe.

The driving experience: A perfect balance of agility, efficiency and comfort.

By Brandon Turkus