2022 BMW 2 Series Coupé nears production

BMW is in the final phase of development for its next-generation 2 Series Coupé, which goes into production from later summer 2021. Aimed at the enthusiast end of the market, the latest car will be ‘particularly driver-oriented’ and will need to compete with the Audi TT, as well as the upcoming Nissan 370Z replacement and Toyota GR 86 from Japan.

An ideal 50:50 weight distribution has been struck, and the body is ‘extremely torsionally stiff’, with an increase of around 12 per cent over the outgoing model. The 2 Series Coupé has undergone significant testing at the Nürburgring Nordschleife and sits on an adapted version of the CLAR platform found under the 3 Series and 4 Series Coupé, while also sharing a considerable amount with the BMW Z4 sports car.

BMW fans who despise the 4 Series’ huge front grille should be able to breathe a sigh of relief, because despite being hidden behind an elaborate disguise, the kidney grilles appear far narrower here. The 2 Series’ headlights and rear clusters are also expected to be slimmer and wider than those fitted to the outgoing model.

Upgrades to the chassis include increased track widths at the front and rear, reducing body roll, while stroke-dependent suspension dampers are also fitted. An Adaptive M Chassis will be available as an option, with electronically controlled dampers to adjust their response for greater comfort or sporty driving. Engineers have paid close attention to underbody aerodynamics, adding a front spoiler lip, air curtains, air deflectors and covers for the fuel tank and rear axle that result in a 50 per cent reduction in lift at the front axle. Unlike the predominantly front-wheel drive 1 Series hatchback, the 2 Series Coupe will retain its rear-wheel drive chassis, with some versions also getting xDrive four-wheel drive. While diesel power hasn’t yet been confirmed, the 188bhp 2.0-litre engine found in the 320d would certainly fit the bill.