Having benefited from a very serious facelift last October, the smallest sedan from the Propeller brand took a crowd bath at the Brussels Motor Show. Here’s what we thought about it.
New generation, really? No, not exactly. Like the Series 1 from which it derives, the Series 2 Gran Coupé benefits from a very, very big restyling covering both the exterior and interior look. On a technical level, the developments are more timid and the basis is the same. Do not be fooled by its increased length and height (respectively 2 cm and 2.5 cm with 4.55 m and 1.45 m), the wheelbase is the same (2.67 m). But, in fact, is this overhaul sufficient?
More sober lines
Tastes and colors cannot be discussed, they say. However, it is clear that – in recent years – the look of certain BMWs has not left buyers unmoved. Including the Series 2 Gran Coupé and its somewhat tortured rear end. The designers’ objective was to make its design more consensual. With its new lights and its redesigned rear strip, this is especially visible at the rear, this Series 2 Gran Coupé now switching to a 3 Series or 4 Series Gran Coupé on reduction. More statutory.
It also obviously has the same front part as the Series 1… which has attracted some criticism because it is reminiscent of less chic models like the Kia Ceed. Once again, it’s up to you to form your own opinion.
The same qualities and defects
Because the platform is always the same, the internal dimensions do not change. If, at the front, the driver will appreciate the overall space and will inevitably find an ideal driving position with ample adjustments as always at BMW, rear passengers will always pout.
Getting into the seat is a real ordeal since you have to both lower your head and do gymnastics with your feet (beautiful contortions in perspective in this case) to make them fit. Generally speaking, habitability is restricted both in terms of leg length (despite hollow seats) and head space (those over 1m80 are clearly not welcome).
Fortunately, it makes up for it on this point compared to the Series 1 with a larger trunk (from 360 to 430 liters on Series 2 and from 300 to 380 liters for Series 1). But be careful, the narrow opening makes painful loading.
A dashboard reviewed from A to Z
The other big new feature of this Series 2 Gran Coupé, it’s the dashboard completely revised like on the Series 1. Geeks will appreciate the dual curved screenothers will rail against the fact that it is obligatory to go through him to control essential functions such as air conditioning. To be tested on the road every day but BMW environments are unfortunately not the most intuitive.
-A sporty and neat interior
On the other hand, there are things that don’t change, and that’s a good thing. The quality of presentation is always worthy of its coat of arms premium. And even if, for ecological reasons, the materials used are more ordinary (no more leather of animal origin), this Series 2 Gran Coupé does not regress as a thermal Mini, from the same group, can do. Generally speaking, the atmosphere on board is both sporty and neat.
A formidable competition
Obviously, we will have to wait for the verdict of the road, something very important for a BMW, to issue a definitive opinion. With its platform taken from the Series 1, this Series 2 Gran Coupé can still only accommodate four-cylinder engines under its hood (two gasolines of 156 hp and 300 hp and a diesel of 163 hp). For fans of 6-in-line and rear-wheel drive, you have to fall back on the Series 2 Coupé. Tough competition for this sporty 4-door coupe.
Above all, in these times when the slightest gram of excess CO2 can change everything, this Series 2 Gran Coupé cannot count on any electrified engine. No mild hybridization, no plug-in hybridization, nichts. Its two main competitors, Audi A3 Sedan et Mercedes CLAhave a head start.
Finally, obviously, prices are still high. Count on a minimum of €42,450 for the base gasoline model. And the catalog of options is sufficiently extensive so that you can increase the bill in no time…
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