Often seen as the spiritual predecessor to the E30 coupé, the original 2 Series (and the 1 Series coupé before it) were both based on a winning recipe. Balanced handling, a light, two-door body shape and the option of a large, powerful engine made it the car of choice for numerous enthusiasts.
Expected in South Africa in 2022, the latest 2 Series builds on the original recipe, with a tweak here and there to keep it fresh. Even though the latest 1 Series and 2 Series Gran Coupé are based on a front-wheel drive platform, BMW has elected to develop the two-door coupé as a rear-wheel drive based car.
While lower-rung models will send their power to the rear, all-wheel drive will, for the first time, be fitted to the range-topping M240i. Powered by a 3.0-litre, straight-six turbopetrol (used in the Z4 M40i, M340i and Toyota Supra), it produces 285 kW and 500 Nm of torque. This will ricochet the small two-door to 100 km/h in just 4.3 seconds. To put that into perspective, that's quicker than the V8-powered E92 M3 from a few years back.
Four-cylinder derivatives will be made available too, in the form of the rear-wheel driven 220i ( 135 kW/300 Nm) and 220d (140 kW/400 Nm). BMW says that all derivatives will be mated to the excellent eight-speed auto 'box in use across the range.
While still a relatively compact coupé, the 2 Series has grown slightly. It's now 105 mm longer and slightly wider, by 64 mm. But for a more aggressive, more taut stance, BMW has also lowered the car by a considerable 28 mm.
Highlighting the sporty persona of the new 2 Series is the standard M Sport suspension package and variable sport steering, across the range. The halo M240i (at least until the M2 arrives) receives an M Sport differential, brakes and numerous other performance add-ons.
The interior has received a much-needed update, replacing the old model's rather staid facia with a more modern look that's in line with the rest of the BMW range. Packed with the brand's latest technology, you'll find the intuitive Live Cockpit Professional, which makes use of a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system and digital instrument display. Thankfully, BMW's brilliant scroller remains - a treat for those who haven't come to terms with touchscreen usability.
BMW is yet to announce official pricing, models and optional extras, but we expect that to be announced closer to the launch date next year, 2022.
Also worth a look: the BMW Glc and the BMW M3.
FAQ
Q: What does the BMW 2 Series cost in South Africa?
The BMW 2 Series starts from around R650,000 for the 220i, with the 220d diesel coming in at approximately R680,000, while the range-topping M240i will set you back around R950,000 when it arrives in 2022.
Q: Is the BMW 2 Series worth buying?
Absolutely, the 2 Series delivers proper rear-wheel drive thrills in a compact package, with the M240i offering supercar-quick acceleration at 4.3 seconds to 100 kph, making it excellent value for performance enthusiasts.
Q: What engine options are available in the BMW 2 Series?
You get three solid choices: the 220i with 135 kW from a four-cylinder petrol, the 220d with 140 kW from a four-cylinder diesel, and the M240i with a stonking 285 kW from a 3.0-litre straight-six turbopetrol.
Q: Does the BMW 2 Series have all-wheel drive?
Only the M240i gets BMW's xDrive all-wheel drive system as standard, while the 220i and 220d stick with the traditional rear-wheel drive setup that makes the 2 Series so engaging to drive.
Q: How fast is the BMW M240i compared to other BMWs?
The M240i rockets to 100 kph in just 4.3 seconds, which is actually quicker than the previous-generation E92 M3 with its V8 engine, making it seriously rapid for a compact coupe.
Should You Buy It?
The BMW 2 Series is a definite yes if you want a proper sports coupe under R1 million in South Africa. The M240i at around R950,000 offers incredible performance with 285 kW and all-wheel drive, making it the best compact performance coupe you can buy locally. Even the entry-level 220i at R650,000 delivers rear-wheel drive fun that's become increasingly rare in this segment. With its updated interior tech, M Sport suspension as standard, and that classic BMW driving experience, the 2 Series maintains the recipe that made the original so beloved. Sure, it's grown a bit in size, but the 28 mm lower stance and improved dynamics more than make up for it. If you're after a weekend warrior that can still handle daily duties, the 2 Series ticks all the boxes without breaking the bank.
