BMW Provides a Glimpse of All-New 2014 2 Series Coupe
Last week, BMW took the wraps off its all-new model series--the 2014 2 Series Coupe--that is based on the 1 Series platform with revised dynamics and new exterior styling. Sportier than the 1 Series, which it replaces, the new rear-wheel-drive (RWD) 2 Series Coupe will be exhibited in January at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit, Michigan, but won't arrive in dealer showrooms until next spring.
Two premium sub-compact models will be offered: the 228i and the tuned M235i. The 4-seat coupe is nearly 3 inches longer than the 1 Series and a little more than 1 inch wider. There's slightly more leg and head room in the new small BMW sporty models.
The 228i is equipped with a 2.0-liter, 4-cylinder turbocharged engine that produces 240 horsepower when mated with an 8-speed automatic transmission. It moves out from 0 to 60 mph in 5.4 seconds, and the top speed for the 228i is 130 mph, according to BMW. Fuel economy for the new 228i is 23 mpg in city driving and 35 mpg on the highway, according to BMW.
BMW says the M235i, which is its first M performance auto model offered in the United States, will produce 322 horsepower with a 3.0-liter 6-cylinder engine and will reach 60 mph in 4.8 seconds. The M235i is rated to return 19 mpg in city driving and 28 mpg on the highway, according to the EPA, and BMW claims the car can achieve a top speed of 155 mph. The sub-compact performance model features M-specific tuning including standard M adaptive suspension, a sport braking system, variable sport steering, and special Michelin Pilot Super Sports tires. Even the exhaust has been tuned for the M235i.
Fuel efficiency for both 2 Series models has been increased, compared with the outgoing 1 Series according to the German premium automaker with special technology that includes air curtains and the auto start/stop function that is offered with both manual and automatic transmissions. There's even a coasting function with the 8-speed automatic transmission.
The interior of the new 2 Series Coupe has a driver-focused cockpit, BMW states. Features include dual-zone automatic climate control, and BMW's i-Drive system, including a 6.5-inch control display. A navigation system is optional. In addition, there is a variety of storage compartments and cupholders.
The new 2 Series follows BMW's new naming policy, which uses odd numbers for sedans and even numbers for coupes. The 2014 BMW 228i coupe will have a starting MSRP of $33,025, including a $925 destination charge, while the performance-oriented M235i model has a sticker price of $44,025.
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