Behold the new BMW 220i Coupe! (Sure, we can't wait for the latest M240i either - but what do we all think of the rear-drive version?)
It is a measure of BMW's current strategy that in launching the new 2 Series the firm seeks to gently celebrate the model's distinctiveness as a rear-drive coupe, yet loudly champion theas its definitive variant. Not that we're complaining ; as evidenced by the current M3 and M4 Competition xDrive, BMW can justly claim to be building some of thein the world. But the scant attention paid to the new 220i and 220d in the introductory press bumf is telling.
Presumably this is because there are additional, punchier models to follow in the wake of the three launch cars, and BMW will lean on these to advance the case for the new 2 Series being that rare thing: an affordable, compact right-wheel-drive coupe in a world of steroidal hot hatches and dullard-fast EVs. Either way, it's worth remembering that the less powerful iterations of the last generation 2 Series were not necessarily pale shadows of the halo cars. In fact, they were rather lovely.
That's because, alongside featuring an engine in the front and power at the rear, they enjoyed almost perfect 50/50 weight distribution and were no slouches when going straight either. Despite being based on a new platform and losing the option of a manual 'box, the new 220i continues all these trends. It is not quite as wide as the latest M240i, but it has still gained 54mm in the front track and 31mm at the back. It is also 105mm longer than before - and 28mm lower to the ground.
Power in the entry-level cars has not increased significantly - you get 184hp and 221lb ft of torque from the 220i, and 190hp and 295lb ft from the 220d - but twinned exclusively with the eight-speed Steptronic auto, that's sufficient for a 7.5 and 6.9 second 0-62mph time, respectively. BMW claims both models comfortably outstrip their predecessors in the handling department, while making gains in rolling refinement. Additionally, the manufacturer says you'll get 44.8mpg from the 2.
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