The next-generation BMW 2 Series is going through a bit of a change. While the current car is only a coupe (if you exclude the soon-to-be defunct Active/Grand Tourers), the next generation 2er will be both a coupe and a sedan. While the former will continue to be a rear-wheel drive coupe, the latter will actually be a front-wheel drive-based sedan, dubbed the 2 Series Gran Coupe.
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It’s been a long time coming but the wait to finally see the 2 Series Gran Coupe in the flesh is coming to an end soon. BMW has sort of cryptically announced its arrival through a QR code on the camouflaged wrapping of 2 Series GC test mules. If you scan the QR code with a mobile phone — or just use the link provided above it — you’re sent to a website that reveals the 2er’s debut.
Once you get to that website, it clearly states that the 2 Series Gran Coupe will be teased some more on July 24, which is just a week away. So get ready because we’re about to see how the the first small Gran Coupe drives and it’s going to be quite interesting. Some enthusiasts might love it, some might hate it. But there’s no denying that it’s going to be a big deal for the brand either way.
Its front-wheel drive nature hasn’t made the upcoming 2 Series Gran Coupe the most popular of future BMWs among enthusiasts. Despite that, though, it is a very interesting car. BMW’s Gran Coupes have always been among its best looking and the 2 Series’ small proportions and lower price point will make it very popular among customers.
While there’s not likely to be a proper BMW M2 Gran Coupe, as the M Division has voiced its reluctance to utilize front-wheel drive chassis, there will be an M235i M Performance version. That should be exciting enough for most customers, just like the M135i hatchback. In fact, if it’s anything like the M135i hatch, the little 2er GC should be a ton of fun.
[Source: BMW]
Same size as original 3er, but with 300+ hp. & awd., not a bad thing.
There’s been mention that they can convert UKL to an XDrive configuration?
Somehow the floorpan doesn’t seem like it could support a transaxle and a differential to the rear wheels.
It’s badged xDrive on UKL models but the hardware is actually Haldex. So its just a clutch pack that sends power to a rear drive shaft, which powers the rear axle. From speaking to a BMW spokesperson, even the X2 M35i can’t send more than 50 percent of its power to the rear wheels.
Mercedes is saying the upcoming A/C/GLA45 AMG models will have a 100% rear drive drift mode, like the higher AMG’s and BMW M models. Aren’t they using the same FWD based transverse engine Haldex system that BMW and Audi are using in their small cars? How can they get 100% of the power to the rear and BMW and Audi can’t?
Haldex was a great system in the ’70s. Now, it is pretty primitive.
BMW should have extended the Coupe platform and kept RWD like E36/46. Just a totoal marketing FUBAR.
Countryman ALL4, M135i xDrive.
M135i is not a Haldex design.
UKL utilizes the decrepit Haldex center differential.
Is the 2er GC coming here to the U.S. or no?
it is coming.
I thought they were gonna debut the 2er in Sep tho…