BMW has given the 2 Series Gran Coupe a comprehensive update, and after spending time behind the wheel near Mahabalipuram, it’s clear this isn’t just a facelift.
The new-generation model arrives with a sharper design, a more modern cabin and meaningful mechanical updates that make it a better luxury sedan than before.
Familiar Formula, Fresh Look
The biggest talking point is undoubtedly the design.
BMW has completely reworked the front end with a larger illuminated kidney grille, slimmer headlights and a more aggressive bumper. The styling takes inspiration from BMW’s upcoming Neue Klasse design language, making the Gran Coupe look far more modern than its predecessor.
Key design highlights include:
- Illuminated kidney grille
- New LED headlight signature
- Frameless doors
- 18-inch alloy wheels
- M Sport body kit
- Redesigned LED taillights
Whether you like the styling or not will come down to personal taste, but there’s no denying that it stands out.
Cabin Gets A Big Upgrade
Inside, BMW has brought the Gran Coupe in line with its latest models.
A curved display houses both the digital instrument cluster and infotainment system, while the dashboard feels cleaner and more premium than before. Material quality is impressive in most touchpoints, and the sports seats offer excellent support.
Notable features include:
- Curved dual-screen setup
- Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- Head-up display
- Harman Kardon sound system
- Panoramic sunroof
- Wireless charger
- Level 2 ADAS
The rear seat remains usable rather than spacious. Headroom is acceptable despite the coupe-style roofline, but taller passengers may find ingress and egress a little tight.
Small Engine, Big BMW Feel
Power comes from a 1.5-litre three-cylinder turbo-petrol engine producing 156hp and 230Nm, paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission. On paper, those figures may not sound exciting, but out on the road, the powertrain feels surprisingly refined.
Performance figures:
- 156hp
- 230Nm
- 7-speed DCT gearbox
- Front-wheel drive
- 0-100kph in 8.6 seconds
- Top speed of 230kph
BMW has also introduced a Boost function that sharpens throttle response and transmission behaviour for short bursts of performance, making overtakes effortless.
Comfort Without Losing Character
One of the biggest improvements is ride quality.
BMW has reworked the suspension setup and moved away from run-flat tyres. The result is a noticeably more comfortable ride without sacrificing the sharp handling that buyers expect from the brand. The steering remains precise and gains weight naturally as speeds rise, helping the Gran Coupe feel composed on fast highways and winding roads alike.
Also read: https://fly-wheel.com/bmw-motorrad-reveals-limited-edition-m-1000-rr-isle-of-man-tt/
Verdict
The new BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe feels more polished, more comfortable and more premium than the model it replaces. The three-cylinder engine may raise eyebrows, but it delivers enough performance while maintaining the engaging driving dynamics that define a BMW. If priced competitively, it should remain an attractive entry point into the brand’s luxury sedan range.
