This summer, the BMW M235i will be replaced by a new model – the M240i. Available in both coupe and convertible variants, the 2016 M240i will bring several upgrades to the successful 2 Series M Performance Automobile model. A Sapphire Black M240i was spotted earlier today in Germany.

The new M240i Coupe will have a starting price identical to the one of its predecessor, the M235i, prices kicking off at $44,150 without the $995 shipping and handling fee. That will get you the new B58 engine under the hood, good for 340 HP and 500 Nm (369 lb-ft) of torque. For the M240i Coupe models, the sprint to 62 mph (100 km/h) from standstill takes 4.8 seconds in manual rear-wheel drive guise and 4.6 seconds when fitted with the automatic gearbox. For the xDrive model, the same sprint takes 4.4 seconds, once again, faster than the manual M2. For the Convertible M240i, the figures stand at 4.9 seconds for the manual RWD model, 4.7 seconds for the Steptronic-equipped models and 4.6 seconds for the AWD versions.

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As standard, all models will come fitted with a 6-speed manual gearbox, be it the M24oi Coupe or Convertible. The latest generation of the 8-speed automatic Steptronic gearbox is also available and the only one you can go for if you prefer all-wheel drive.

The BMW M240i Coupe boasts fuel consumption figures of 331. mpg (7.1 liters per 100 kilometers. The M240i Convertibles will do 28.3 to 31.4 mpg (7.4 l/100km to 8.3 l/100km).

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Design-wise the cars remain the same. The Feric Grey accents on the front bumpers as well as the side mirror covers done in the same color will still be the clearest clue to separate the M Performance models from the M Sport versions. The M Sport package still comes as standard, while the suspension height was dropped by 10 millimeters compared to the standard 2 Series models.

Inside, you’ll find cloth/Alcantara sports seats with blue contrast stitching, the M leather steering wheel and an M driver’s footrest as standard.

[Photos: Bimmertoday]