BMW’s rival to the Mercedes A-Class Saloon has just been given a complete overhaul. Cameron Richards has driven it.
What is it?
Over the years, BMW has made some of the greatest executive saloons on the market with its 3, 5 and 7 Series.
However, with the rise in SUVs, compact saloons have often become overlooked. The 1 Series hatchback is one of the firm’s most popular models, so when BMW introduces a booted variant, it addresses a need for a compact saloon within its range.
What’s new?
Lots of the exterior design is borrowed from the hatchback but its side profile, sloping roofline and aggressive back end make it look even sleeker.
The interior is minimalist with lots of the controls now integrated into the touchscreen system and the ‘M Sport’ trim level is standard across the range, giving the car a sportier appeal.
The 2 Series Gran Coupé is offered in a choice of different drivetrains. More expensive models come equipped with adjustable dampers. These automatically adjust the suspension according to the road surface.
What’s under the bonnet?
There are two engine options to choose from, with the cars badged ‘220’ and ‘M235’.
For this test, we’ve driven the spicier M235 xDrive, which comes fitted with a 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine and four-wheel-drive. Its 304bhp and 400Nm of torque allow the car to hit 0-60mph in 4.7 seconds and reach a limited top speed of 155mph.
The ‘220’ model comes with a 1.5-litre three-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine with 48V mild-hybrid technology, producing 172bhp.
All versions of the 2 Series Gran Coupé come fitted with a seven-speed automatic gearbox as standard.
What’s it like to drive?
The car does an excellent job of being composed and controlled around the corners, with acres of grip. It doesn’t get upset when you push further, either.
The steering is nicely weighted and has a good feel, plus there’s a variety of different drive modes, with ‘sport’ sharpening the throttle response and turning up the engine note. However, the gearbox is a little hesitant and slow using the paddle shifts on the steering wheel.
Our car’s adjustable damping provides a smooth and comfortable ride, with only very large road imperfections agitating the chassis.
How does it look?
From the side profile, the sloping roofline is the main differentiation between the Gran Coupé and the 1 Series.
The rear tail lights follow the same design as the front lights and our test car’s bright yellow paint job makes it stand out. Meanwhile, the front end features a redesigned kidney grille.
Our car’s two-tone diamond-cut alloy wheels and quad rear tailpipes give a much more aggressive look, while the subtle boot lid spoiler is finished off in gloss black.
What’s it like inside?
Inside, it’s the same as the 1 Series, with its minimalist design. However, BMW still includes physical buttons on the steering wheel and the centre console – improving its usability overall.
There are lots of ‘M Sport’ references throughout the cabin, with the red central mark on the steering wheel and hand stitching on the dashboard, which is finished off in the BMW Motorsport colours.
Build quality is superb with very high-quality materials used throughout, though there are a few harder plastics lower down in the cabin. The sports seats look great and support the driver and front passenger well.
While space in the back is compromised due to the sloping roof line, legroom is more than adequate.
Boot space is an issue. The M235 xDrive comes with 430 litres of space but the batteries for the mild-hybrid system on the 220 eat into space and only give you 360 litres. All models come as standard with a practical 40:20:40 split rear seat configuration.
What’s the spec like?
Prices kick off at £34,915 for the entry-level 220 M Sport, which includes 18-inch alloy wheels, M Sport exterior styling and heated front seats.
Our M235 xDrive comes in at £44,435 and boasts equipment such as single zone air conditioning, sports seats and a gloss black boot spoiler.
Verdict
In a world of SUVs, it’s nice that BMW is committed to saloon cars, and this 2 Series Gran Coupé is a very good and capable all-rounder.
The looks will be divisive for some, and the difference in boot space on the mild-hybrid 220 will weaken its appeal. But, if you want a fast, well-built and sporty coupé, the 2 Series Gran Coupé is one of the best compact executive saloons on the market.
Facts at a glance
Model as tested: BMW M235 xDrive Gran Coupé
Price as tested: £44,435
Engine: 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol
Power: 304bhp
Torque: 400Nm
Top speed: 155mph (limited)
0-60mph: 4.7 seconds
MPG: 34.4-37.7mpg
CO2 emissions: 170-185g/km
