2022 BMW 2 Series Coupe Adds Muscle, Drops the Manual Gearbox

Published on July 7, 2021 in New Models by Guillaume Rivard

The BMW 2 Series Coupe is introducing a new generation for 2022. Unlike the Gran Coupe variant, which is built on a FWD platform, it retains a RWD-based architecture.

In Canada, the M240i xDrive model will arrive first, more precisely in November of this year. And we can already tell you that it will start at $56,950. BMW has also announced that a 230i xDrive model will follow at a late date. Stay tuned for more information on that one.

More Aggressive… But Not Too Much

The new BMW M240i xDrive model is 88 mm longer, 66 mm wider, 2.5 mm lower and has a 50 mm longer wheelbase than the coupe it replaces. The front and rear tracks are over 60 mm wider, too. These increased dimensions combined with an upgraded and stiffer chassis will pay dividends not only in improved cornering prowess but also in a more aggressive appearance.

Photo: BMW

Speaking of aggressive, the front grille has been revised, but it’s not the gigantic version seen on the 4 Series as well as the M3 and M4. Interestingly, the vertically arranged air flaps can open in ten stages to provide increased cooling air when required by the engine. The lines are sharper and the new headlights inspired by the legendary BMW 2002 look striking.

An aluminum hood and front fenders are used to reduce weight at the front of the vehicle for improved front-rear weight distribution. The 19-inch M light alloy wheels and trapezoidal exhaust tips of the standard M Sport exhaust system complete the fresh look.

Photo: BMW

Updated Interior

Inside, the BMW Controller, gear selector lever, Start/Stop button, Driving Experience Control switch and numerous other function buttons are grouped within a modern-looking control panel in the centre console.

Standard equipment includes Sport seats in two-tone perforated SensaTec leather and a Sport leather steering wheel with newly designed multifunction buttons. Optional Vernasca leather upholstery is available in a choice of four colours, and the available sunroof is 20 percent larger than in the previous model.

Photo: BMW

On a practical note, the Easy-Entry function slides the front seats forward when their backrests are folded, making it easier for passengers to access the rear seats.

Ambient lighting is still part of the mix, while the iDrive 7 infotainment system offers wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. If you don’t like the 8.8-inch centre touchscreen and analog gauges with a 5.1-inch instrument display, the optional BMW Live Cockpit Professional upgrades the instrument cluster to a 12.3-inch fully digital display and increases the centre screen to 10.25 inches.

And Now the Interesting Part…

The new BMW M240i xDrive Coupe’s turbocharged 3.0-litre inline six-cylinder engine now delivers 382 horsepower (+47) and 369 pound-feet of torque (+1), the latter accessible from 1,800-5,000 rpm. As a result, the car accelerates from 0-100 km/h in 4.2 seconds.

The latest version of the eight-speed Sport Steptronic transmission handles power. As well as gearshift paddles on the steering wheel, this transmission brings a Launch Control function for when drivers are looking to sprint off the line with optimal traction.

Photo: BMW

We’re sad to report, however, that the manual gearbox is gone. On the plus side, in driving situations where AWD is not necessary, power is sent to the rear wheels only so you can have more fun on the road and the track.

Elsewhere, the standard M Sport suspension has been upgraded. Among other things, lift-related shock absorber technology provides extra damping to control body movement when driving over large bumps. Optionally, the adaptive M suspension allows drivers the widest possible spread between sport and comfort-oriented settings.

Photo: BMW

The main competition for the BMW 2 Series will once again come from the Mercedes-Benz A-Class and Audi A3, the latter set to return with a very explosive RS 3 model. Don’t forget the Cadillac CT4, especially in CT4-V Blackwing trim with 472 horsepower.

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