Geraldine Herbert drives the BMW 2 Series Coupe – Photos by Kyran O’Brien
BMW has added another number to its ever-growing list of nameplates, we test drive the new 2 Series writes Geraldine Herbert
What is it? From electric cars to a front wheel drive MPV, it seems there is a BMW for everyone these days. But if you thought a compact rear wheel drive coupe was missing from the line up then think again. The new 2 series coupe is the replacement for the 1 series coupe and is based on the hatchback.
Who is it aimed at? The new coupe is ideal choice for those who need something a little bigger than the 1-Series hatch but with the luxury and quality of the 3 series.
Styling? The 2 Series coupe inherits more of the family DNA than the model it replaces and while it shares its bonnet, front wings and doors with the three-door the look is cleaner with nice details front and rear including sharper headlamps, front foglights and stylish LED tail lights.
Under the Bonnet? There are a range of petrol and diesel engines to choose from. We tested the 220d diesel; with184bhp it can reach 100km from rest in around 7.1 seconds and returns 4.4 litre per 100km.
What about inside? Inside it shares the same dash and iDrive system as the 1 sderies. While it is functional with clean lines it feels sufficiently luxurious to distinguish itself. There is plenty of adjustments in the seat and the steering wheel has reach and rack so it is really easy to get a comfortable driving position. The wider track and longer wheelbase means that it is particularly roomy inside. Access to the two rear buckets seats is good and while it’s unlikely you’ll fit two adults in there comfortable it is a lot better than rivals. The bootspace is particularly generous with 390 litres which is 70 litres more than a Ford Focus.
The hallmark BMW kidney grille protrudes clearly from the front of the car. Photo by Kyran O’Brien
On the Road? On the road it is effortlessly fast with light and direct steering. BMW’s 50:50 weight distribution and rear wheel drive makes it both entertaining and agile. Flick the settings to sport mode to feel the full force of power of this lightweight coupe. The steering is direct and it feels, light and sporty and there is also a slick automatic gearbox that shifts quickly and responds like a manual but with the smoothness of an automatic.
And Safety? The 2 series has not yet been tested by the Euro NCAP but there is no reason to believe it wont gain a five star rating. It comes equipped with a host of passive and active safety features.
Options? There are three trim levels in addition to the standard specification to choose from plus there is a range of standard and optional equipment available including an anti-dazzle High Beam Assistant, BMW Professional Media package with 8.8-inch widescreen display and iDrive Touch controller and Driving Assistant with Lane Departure warning, Forward Collision Warning, City Collision Mitigation and Preventative Pedestrian
Economy and cost ? Prices for the 2 Series range starts at €35,700 for the 2i8d manual rising to €60,443for the M235i automatic. The 220d proved very economical and achieves 4.4 litres per 100 kms or almost 65 miles to the gallon and with C02 emissions of just 117g/km its also cheap to tax.
Verdict?The 2 series coupe is a return to what BMW do best; creating compact, agile, rear wheel drive coupes. It is beautiful to drive, economical to run and comes with a sufficient dash of practicality for everyday driving. Overall it proves an interesting but pricey alternative to a hothatch.
Why you’ll buy one? Driving Dynamics; Handling; Economical
Why you won’t? Pricey; snug in the back
Rivals
Peugeot RCZ – priced from €41,595
Volkswagen Scirocco – priced from €26,975
Watch our video review below (Video Filming by Kyran O’Brien)
BMW 220d M Sport Coupe
Engine: 1995cc, 135kw (184bhp) @4000, 380NM @1750-2750
Max speed: 180km/h
0-100 kph: 7.1 seconds
Emissions (Motor Tax) : 117 g/km (€200)
Model price range: €38,480 – €60,443 (Test Car –€53,277.25)
No of Doors: 5 doors
Euro NCAP : Not yet tested
Fuel type: Diesel
Fuel Economy (combined cycle): 4.4 l/100km (64.2mpg)
Boot Capacity Seats up: 390 litres
Car Seats: 2 Isofix fittings in the rear
Length: 4432mm
Width: 1774mm
Height: 1418mm
Wheelbase: 2690mm
For more information check out BMW.ie, the BMW Ireland Facebook page
Geraldine Herbert
26th September, 2014
