The All-New 2020 BMW 2 Series Gran Coupé

Richmond Hill, ON. BMW is pleased to introduce the all-new compact 2 Series Gran Coupé, offering an extroverted, performance-oriented entry point in to BMW ownership. The low wide and sporting 228i xDrive Gran Coupé and M235i xDrive Gran Coupé models deliver the styling and design, everyday usability and space, agility and handling, connectivity and technology, combined with the latest driver assistance and safety systems that BMW customers have come to expect.

Power and Performance

The BMW 228i xDrive model is powered by the 2.0-liter four-cylinder version of BMW’s B modular engine family, delivering an output of 228 hp @ 5,000 – 6,000 rpm and 258 lb-ft of torque @ 1,450 – 4,500 rpm. Torque is transferred through the standard 8-speed Sport automatic transmission and BMW xDrive intelligent all-wheel drive system to the wheels. The 228i xDrive Gran Coupé accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 6.1 seconds and reaches an electronically limited top speed of 210 km/h when the vehicle is equipped with all-season tires and 240 km/h when equipped with performance tires  

The BMW M235i xDrive Gran Coupé ups the performance quotient by delivering 301 hp @ 5,000 – 6,250 rpm and 332 lb-ft of torque @ 1,750 – 4,500 rpm from a tuned version of the 2.0-liter 4-cylinder modular engine. A reinforced crankshaft featuring larger diameter main bearings, new pistons and modified connecting rods allow the engine to handle the higher levels of power. A larger turbocharger featuring a built-in exhaust manifold and integral diverter valve increases engine output. Modified fuel injectors are fitted to increase the flow volume. The capabilities of the cooling package is improved with an independent transmission oil cooler that is separated from the engine’s coolant circuit, an electric 850-watt fan, two remote coolant radiators in the wheel arches and an enlarged expansion tank, ensuring that the BMW M235i xDrive is able to display its performance capabilities

even under the most demanding conditions. A new dual-branch exhaust system with minimal backpressure assists with expelling the exhaust gasses. The M235i xDrive Gran Coupé accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.8 seconds (4.7 seconds with the optional M Performance Package’s overboost function) and reaches a top speed of 250 km/h when equipped with performance non-runflat tires.

BMW Performance Control with ARB

The new BMW 2 Series Gran Coupé adopts technology from the BMW i3 in the form of the near-actuator wheel slip limitation (ARB) system. This control system significantly improves traction when cornering or accelerating on wet or icy conditions, and allows wheel slip to be controlled, precisely and quickly. ARB uses a slip controller positioned directly in the engine control unit rather than in the control unit for the DSC (Dynamic Stability Control) system. Reducing the signal path distance means that information is relayed three times quicker, while the driver perceives wheel spin being brought under control with reaction times that are 10 times quicker. Near-actuator wheel slip limitation also works closely with the DSC system to significantly reduce power understeer without the need for corrective DSC inputs.

ARB is assisted in its task by a yaw distribution system called BMW Performance Control. Standard on the BMW 2 Series Gran Coupé, this feature increases agility by intelligently applying the brakes at the wheels on the inside of the bend before the wheel spin occurs. This suppresses any initial understeer and gives the car a neutral steering behavior. Drivers can deactivate the DSC system if they wish to take over full control of the car’s sporty handling abilities.

When the DSC system is switched off, the EDLC (Electronic Differential Lock Control) function uses brake applications to simulate the effect of a mechanical limited-slip differential. Braking the unloaded front wheel on the inside of the bend prevents it from spinning and shifts drive power to the wheel on the outside of the bend, resulting in far greater grip when accelerating out of corners.

Alternatively, there is the option of the DSC system’s Dynamic Traction Control (DTC) setting, which allows a greater degree of slip at the driven wheels. Intervention to stabilize the car becomes more muted, enabling it to pull away more effectively on slippery or loose surfaces and during sportier driving. This lets the driver control and enjoy the BMW 2 Series Gran Coupé without any assistance until defined limits are reached.

BMW xDrive all-wheel drive and M235i xDrive Torsen Limited-Slip Differential

ARB (Actuator-related wheel slip limiter) technology and BMW Performance Control work hand-in-hand with the standard BMW xDrive intelligent all-wheel drive system. The system’s control logic varies the distribution of power between the front and rear wheels automatically and dynamically in response to the accelerator pedal position, engine torque, speed and steering angle. It can split drive 50:50 if necessary and is designed to ensure predictable handling in all driving situations. This applies even if the Driving Experience Control switch is set to Sport mode, DTC is selected or DSC is deactivated. In Comfort or Eco Pro mode, drive is apportioned as required, while keeping fuel consumption as low as possible. Fuel economy is therefore improved without any discernible impact on driving dynamics or traction.

The BMW M235i xDrive includes a newly developed standard mechanical Torsen limited-slip differential, which gives the car an even sharper dynamic edge by creating a locking effect between the front wheels. The differential is integrated into the 8-speed automatic transmission. The Launch Control function allows the full peak torque of 332 lb-ft to be available in first and second gear.

8-Speed Sport Automatic transmission

Intelligent connectivity enables the standard 8-speed Sport automatic transmission to adapt its shift strategy according to the planned route and driving situation. If the BMW 2 Series Gran Coupé is equipped with optional Active Cruise Control with Stop and Go function top the transmission will factor in the data from the navigation system to avoid unnecessary gear changes and always be in the correct gear for upcoming road conditions such as downshifting when approaching a turn or a slower vehicle ahead.

The coasting and Auto Start-Stop functions also take their cue from the data supplied by the navigation system, the front-mounted camera and the sensors for the driver assistance systems. The coasting function, available with the Driving Experience Control switch set to COMFORT mode as well as in ECO Pro mode, will decouple the powertrain in situations where performance and comfort are not compromised. If the driver suddenly lifts off the accelerator, the powertrain stays connected so that engine braking can be used. Inefficient engine shutdown by the Auto Start Stop function when stopping briefly at junctions or roundabouts is also avoided.

Body, Chassis and Suspension

The body of the BMW 2 Series Gran Coupé makes intelligent use of aluminum for the hood and trunk and high-strength steel for other body components. This material mix keeps weight down at the same time as giving body structure with very high levels of torsional stiffness. Standard bracing in the vehicle’s engine compartment and rear suspension area contributes to the vehicle’s rigidity.

The positive dynamic impact of the torsional rigidity is even more pronounced in the BMW M235i xDrive with the addition of strut tower tie bar and bracing on the front axle subframe and in the tunnel area, plus an anti-roll bar mounting with high preload, which provides excellent support for the body. This all combines with the standard sports suspension and the M Sport steering which has a more direct ratio, sharper response and power assistance which varies according to vehicle speed and lateral acceleration, reducing the steering effort required – to produce a further noticeable increase in the car’s agility. Handling at high speeds is enhanced by aerodynamics that reduce lift at the front and rear axles.

The standard suspension for the 228i xDrive Gran Coupé delivers excellent poise and dynamic capabilities. The M Sport suspension (standard on M235i xDrive), available as part of the optional M Sport package, reduces vehicle ride height by 10 mm and increases the handling capabilities even further. Optional on both the 228i xDrive and M235i xDrive models is Dynamic Damper Control which lets the driver choose from two different shock settings. The Driving Experience Control switch can be used to select either Comfort setting for better ride comfort or Sport setting for more sporty driving. All BMW 2 Series Gran Coupé models feature a multi-link rear suspension.

Wheels, Tires and Brakes

The BMW 228i xDrive Gran Coupé comes equipped with standard 18-inch Multi-spoke wheels with 225/40R18 all-season runflat tires. 18-inch wheels with performance non-runflat tires can be specified as can wheel and tire combinations from a varied selection, including 19-inch wheels with 235/35R19 performance non-runflat tires.

The M235i xDrive is equipped with standard 19-inch bi-colour M Double-spoke wheels with 225/35R19 performance non-runflat tires. Available on the M Performance model are 18-inch wheel with non-runflat performance tires or all season run-flat tires or 19-inch wheels with 235/35R19 non-runflat performance tires. Also available on the M Performance model are 18-inch wheels with all-season runflat tires and 18-inch wheels with performance runflat tires. An additional 19” bi-colour wheel finished in cerium grey with performance non-runfat tires is also available as an alternative to the standard 19” wheel.

 M Sport brakes are available as an option on the 228i xDrive Gran Coupé and are standard on the M235i xDrive model.

Exterior Design

The BMW 2 Series Gran Coupé is a low-slung, sporty four-door Coupé with frameless windows and a wide stance, traditional design features of two-door Coupés. The slightly angled headlights with BMW four-eyed halo daytime running lights draw attention to the traditional BMW kidney grille, which is a large connecting design element of the front of the new car.

The standard full-LED headlights feature hexagonal tube daytime running lights and form an angled, wrap around shape which ties the front fenders, front hood and bumper together. The aluminum-look headlight housing features “BMW LED” lettering.

The roofline has a graceful flow while the shoulder line extends upwards towards the back of the car finishing in an upswept rear trunk. Slim, full LED, L-shaped rear taillights are placed high above chrome 90mm exhaust tips, with the M235i xDrive model replacing the round tips with a free-form design set inside a contoured rear diffuser panel.

A large, standard panoramic roof features a 74 cm by 72 cm interior opening with an interior electric roller blind for shading. The glass opens outward and also includes a ventilation mode.

The 228i xDrive Gran Coupé come standard with Sport line trim including a highgloss black finish for the kidney grille slats and a black finish for the front air intake surrounds (air inlet covers in body color)  lower mirror caps, door trim surround and rear diffuser panel. When the M Sport Package is selected, these trim components are finished in High Gloss black with a Dark Shadow finish for the rear diffuser panel. The M235i xDrive Gran Coupé features a Cerium Grey finish for the Kidney grille surround and slats, front air inlet surrounds, side sill inserts, mirror caps and free form tailpipe finishers.

Interior Design

The interior of the first ever BMW 2 Series Gran Coupé combines a sporting focus, upscale materials and a use of space designed with exhilarating drives on your favorite twisty road and family life and long-distance journeys in mind.

Details such as backlit interior trim and differing grain effects between the steering wheel, instrument panel and doors and contrast seams on the dashboard add modern and premium quality touches to the four-door Coupé. Controls are geared to the driver and grouped together in clusters for easy operability.

The driver is delivered all information via the Info Display instrument cluster (up to 260 mm /10.25-inches). The 260mm /10.25-inch high-resolution Control Display is mounted above the center console, touch-sensitive and angled towards the driver in customary BMW fashion. When the optional BMW Live Cockpit Professional is selected, the two screens form a large display grouping which drivers can configure to their individual requirements. The full-color 235 mm / 9.2-inch BMW Head-Up Display (optional) supplies the driver with information without requiring them to take their eyes off the road. The driver-focused layout is enhanced visually by trim strips which run towards the driver and by different graining effects and textures on the instrument panel and behind the steering wheel. Technical Orbis graining is used on the driver’s side in the cockpit area while leather-like Verona graining features on the passenger side, the two separated by contrast diagonal stitching, depending on the equipment line specified.

The Start/Stop button and gear selector lever also located in the lower area of the center control panel with all the controls relating to driving functions clustered around. To the right is the iDrive Controller – or the iDrive Touch Controller if the optional BMW Live Cockpit Professional is specified. In front of the selector lever is a practical storage area which can be equipped with optional Wireless Charging for smartphones.

The BMW 2 Series Gran Coupé’s low-slung form does not mean a lack of generous cabin space. Rear passengers are welcomed by legroom almost equalling that of the 3 Series Sedan. The 12 cubic foot trunk with storage package can be expanded by folding down the 40/20/40 split rear seat backrest. The rear bench can be released fully from the load compartment. The tailgate opens automatically at the press of a button or, with the standard Comfort Access, with the wave of a foot under the bumper.

The standard illuminated trim is supported by six different colors for the lighting effect. As well as choosing the their preferred color, the driver can adjust the brightness of the ambient lighting to their tastes. The lighting is activated when the vehicle is unlocked.

BMW Live Cockpit and Live Cockpit Professional

The BMW 2 Series Gran Coupé includes BMW Live Cockpit with standard Navigation, intelligent voice control and Apple CarPlay compatibility, analogue instrument dials and a 130 mm / 5.1-inch portrait-format screen which displays information such as the car’s speed, the status of the driver assistance systems and navigation instructions.

The optional BMW Live Cockpit Professional replaces the analogue instruments with a digital 260 mm /10.25-inch display screen with a clockwise speedometer and counter-clockwise tachometer. The space between the digital gauges displays navigation instructions, the current location of the vehicle and relevant information. An Assisted Driving View uses sensors integrated into the car to depict the area around it in real time; color accents highlight activated driver assistance systems, such as the Lane Departure Warning or Active Cruise Control. The displays showing the entertainment and radio station information, the navigation and orientation maps and the new onboard computer read-out can be configured by the driver according to taste. The layout of content on the central Control Display, which is optimized for touch control but can also be operated with the optional gesture control giving the driver and passengers multiple ways to interact with their BMW 2 Series Gran Coupé. 

The standard BMW Stereo sound system includes ten speakers and a 205-watt amplifier. The optional Harman Kardon surround sound system ups the audio experience with 16-speakers and 464 watts of audio power.

BMW Head-Up Display

The optional BMW Head-Up Display projects driving-related information onto a 9.2-inch area of the windscreen. The information shown in full-color includes the car’s speed, speed limits, status indicators and warnings from the assistance systems, and route guidance. If the Active Cruise Control system is specified, distance warning shows an icon in the BMW Head-Up Display to alert the driver when they get closer to the vehicle in front than the pre-set minimum distance.

Interior Details

The new BMW 2 Series Gran Coupés come standard with power Sport seats covered in standard Oyster/Black Sensatec or Black Sensatec on the 228i xDrive Gran Coupé with Dakota leather in either Magma Red, Mocha, Black with Blue highlights, Oyster or Back being an option. Dakota leather is standard on the M235i xDrive Gran Coupé.

A Sport steering wheel is standard on the 228i xDrive Gran Coupé while the M Sport Steering wheel (Standard on the M235i xDrive Gran Coupé) can be selected as part of the optional M Sport Package.

Berlin Illuminated trim is standard on the 228i xDrive model with Brooklyn and Boston Illuminated trim available as options. The M235i xDrive comes standard with the illuminated interior trim Boston and Illuminated Brooklyn Trim and Illuminated Berlin Trim being offered as options. Ambient lighting is available as an option on the 228i xDrive and is standard on the M235i xDrive model. Occupants can customize the interior light to 6 light colours (white, bronze, orange, lilac, green and blue) and brightness adjustable for ambient lighting.

Exterior Paint Finishes

Exterior finishes for the new BMW 228i xDrive Gran Coupé include two standard non-metallic paints and a choice of eight optional metallic colors. Non-metallic Alpine White and Jet Back are available along with Black Sapphire Metallic, Melbourne Red Metallic, Mineral White Metallic, Mineral Grey Metallic, Seaside Blue Metallic and Storm Bay Metallic. When opting for the M Sport Package, Misano Blue Metallic and Snapper Rocks Blue Metallic are additionally offered.

The M235i xDrive is available in a choice of Alpine White, Black Sapphire Metallic, Melbourne Red Metallic, Mineral Grey Metallic, Misano Blue Metallic, Snapper Rocks Blue Metallic or Storm Bay Metallic.

Active Driver Assistance Systems

The BMW 2 Series Gran Coupé benefits from an array of innovative driver assistance systems.  These systems lend the driver a helping hand both with the task of driving in monotonous conditions such as traffic jams and slow-moving traffic. 

The optional Active Cruise Control system with Stop & Go automatically keeps assessing distance to vehicles travelling ahead. A cruising speed between 30 – 160 km/h can be set manually or imported from the traffic sign recognition system. The system is able to brake the car to a stop if necessary – and also pull away again, either by itself or at the driver’s request, depending on how long the car has been stationary.

Standard safety features such as Frontal Collision Warning with City Collision Mitigation Function and Active Blind Spot Detection. Also standard is the Lane Departure Warning system with active lane return, which operates from 70 – 240 km/h. The standard Active Driving Assistant includes the Lane Change Warning system, which prompts the driver to guide the car back onto the correct lane at speeds above 20 km/h by means of a visual warning and, if necessary, a steering input. The Active Driving Assistant’s other functions include the route-ahead assistant, rear collision warning and crossing traffic warning, which reduces the risk of a collision when reversing into roads obstructed from the driver’s view.

Parking and Back-Up Assistants

Extensive assistance with parking and maneuvering is available with standard and optional systems on the BMW 2 Series Gran Coupé. Standard Park Distance Control (PDC) with sensors at both the front and rear offers the option of visual and acoustic signals to prevent collisions with obstacles located to the side or rear of the vehicle. A rear view camera is also standard.

The optional Parking Assistance Package add the capability for automated parking in parallel or perpendicular spaces. This system takes care of steering the car, accelerating and braking. The Parking Assistant is also capable of automatically maneuvering out of parallel parking spaces.

The innovative Back-Up Assistant helps the driver to exit parking spots or maneuver when space is limited and represents a further step towards automated driving. This optional feature offers the highly convenient facility of automated reversing in confined spaces or situations where the driver does not have a clear view, such as multi-story parking garages or winding driveways. To do this, it stores the steering movements for any section the car has just driven forward along at no more than 35 km/h. The system is then able to reverse the vehicle for distances of up to 50 metres by steering it along exactly the same line it took when moving forward. All the driver has to do is operate the accelerator and brake pedals and monitor the vehicle’s surroundings. The reversing assistant can back the car up at a maximum 9 km/h.

BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant and Connectivity

 The BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant first seen in the BMW 3 Series Sedan forms part of the control and operating concept for the BMW 2 Series Gran Coupé. Saying the short prompt “Hey BMW” allows drivers to access various vehicle functions and obtain information simply by speaking. The range of available functions and skills is constantly expanding thanks to regular updates.  The BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant is a digital character who can learn routines and habits and subsequently apply them in the appropriate context It helps the driver, learns their preferences and is familiar with their favorite settings – e.g. for the seat heating – and the places they drive to frequently using the navigation system (“Hey BMW, take me home”). Saying “Hey BMW, I’m cold” will prompt it to adjust the temperature inside the car accordingly and switch the seat heating on. One unique feature over other digital assistants is that drivers can give this one a name of their choice