BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe Disappoints

BMW has revealed the all-new 2 Series Gran Coupe, but it’s nothing like the 2 Series enthusiasts have grown to love. To put it bluntly, some are so disappointed by this new model line they’re calling it the BMW Corolla. That’s a little uncalled for, because after all what did the Toyota Corolla deserve to have such an insult flung at it?

All kidding aside, we all knew a front-wheel-drive 2 Series was in the works and this is it. Enthusiasts are taking it as BMW giving them the middle finger since the 2 Series has catered more to them than perhaps any BMW product today. Now we have a better idea why European enthusiasts have ripped on the 1 Series hatchback so much.

Debuting for the 2020 model year, we’re getting two versions of this car: the 228i xDrive and the M235i xDrive. Both use a turbocharged four-cylinder engine, but output is 228 horsepower and 258 lb.-ft. of torque or 301 horsepower and 332 lb.-ft. of torque, depending on the model you choose. It’s no coincidence these outputs almost perfectly match what you can get for the BMW X2 lineup.

To help wow badge worshipers, because that’s obviously who BMW is targeting with this car, all kinds of electronic nannies will be included. Among them is the near-actuator wheel slip limitation system called ARB, previously used on the i3.

Finally, there’s the design, which includes a stubby nose and design cues seemingly lifted off other, “lesser” brands. The BMW faithful are not impressed. The official press release actually tries to make it sound sporty, but we all know this car doesn’t look that way.

Pricing hasn’t been released yet, but expect the BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe to be relatively affordable. Production starts in November.