BMW 2 Series Australian range updated for 2018

After recent specification upgrades to both the 1 Series and 3 Series ranges, BMW Australia is continuing its model year changes, this time focusing on the 2 Series coupe and convertible ahead of their local introduction in September. The BMW 2 Series is selling well in 2017 so far, with 1,125 sold so far.

Like its siblings, the update to the BMW 2 Series has brought some subtle styling changes, along with added equipment such as LED headlights across the range. Prices have risen correspondingly, with as much as $2,190 added to the price of the M240i models.

“Compact rear-drive coupes and convertibles have long been part of the BMW DNA,” said BMW Group Australia CEO, Marc Werner.

“The 2 Series Coupe and Convertible have always been seen as dynamic leaders in their segments, and this latest update adds further desirability with sharp looks, a high-quality interior and a strong mix of performance, dynamics and efficiency,” he said.

A train spotter’s dream update, the upgraded 2 Series features very few external clues as to its newness. Changes are limited to all-LED headlights standard across the range – the standard system using circular daytime running lights with the adaptive system on the M240i using more hexagonal-shaped DRLs.

The BMW 2 Series’ colour palette has seen some additions, with Sunset Orange from the 1 and 3 Series joining the range, as well as Seaside Blue and Mediterranean Blue joining the 220i and 230i Luxury Line grades. LED front foglamps and revised LED tailights now feature, as well as redesigned bumpers and redesigned kidney grilles for a freshened look.

Inside, the BMW 2 Series continues the adaptation of BMW’s latest iDrive 6 infotainment system, available in two formats – a standard system for the 220i and a larger Navigation System Professional for the 230i and M240i, the latter system with a larger 8.8-inch touchscreen.

As with the 1 Series, the interior of the 2 Series also earns upgraded materials, with ‘Pearl Chrome’ trim finishing, chrome window button elements and new high-gloss black centre console finish. A new Cognac tan colour is available in Dakota leather, which is available as a no-cost option on variants where leather trim is already standard equipment.

Where BMW Australia hasn’t changed the 2 Series is its lineup, with familiar 220i, 230i and M240i variants continuing as before. The 220i is powered by a 123kW/270Nm 2.0-litre turbo four, the 230i a 185kW/350Nm tune of the same engine and the M240i a 3.0-litre turbo six, with both engines in use in various other BMW models.

As before, an eight-speed automatic continues as the default transmission choice, with a six-speed manual available as a no-cost option. Fuel economy ranges from 5.9L/100km for the 220i and 230i coupe to 7.4L/100km for the M240i convertible, with emissions ranging from 134g/km for the 230i coupe to 169g/km for the M240i convertible.

Now priced from $52,900 plus on-road costs (up $1,600), 220i models are equipped better than ever. LED headlights, 17-inch alloy wheels, electric-folding and auto-dimming mirrors, Navigation System Business with a rear view camera and DAB+ digital radio, climate control, speed limit information, front and rear parking sensors, sports front seats with Dakota leather upholstery and BMW’s ConnectedDrive system, with remote services, teleservices, emergency e-calling and real-time traffic information.

Step up to a $63,000 230i (up $1,100), and in addition to additional power, you also earn the M-Sport package with sports suspension, 18-inch alloy wheels, sports brakes and a sports steering wheel. You also receive a BMW Individual anthracite headliner, alcantara/cloth seat trim (coupe – the convertible continues with Dakota leather), heated front seats in the convertible, keyless entry and start, electric front seats and Navigation System Professional.

Sitting atop the tree is the M240i, from $76,800 (up $2,190), which receives different 18-inch alloy wheels, a 12-speaker harman/kardon sound system, adaptive M suspension, adaptive LED headlights, Dakota leather upholstery and heated front seats.

New option packages for the 2 Series range are also available, with a $1,700 Innovations package for the 220i included the larger 8.8-inch Navigation System Professional iDrive, an upgraded seven-speaker sound system and additional concierge services for the inbuilt ConnectedDrive service.

Also available for the 220i is a $2,400 Comfort Package, which adds keyless entry and start, electric front seat adjustment with memory functionality, electric lumbar support and front seat heating.

Finally, a Driver’s Assistance Package is available for both the 220i and 230i, which includes automatic high beam headlights, adaptive cruise control with stop and go functionality in traffic and a parking assistant. Order it alone for $1,350, or for $1,200 when ordered in conjunction with the adaptive LED headlights from the M240i.

2017 BMW 2 Series pricing (plus on-road costs):
220i coupe – $52,900 (+$1600)
230i coupe – $63,000 (+$1100)
M240i coupe – $76,800 (+$2190)
220i convertible – $59,900 (+$1600)
230i convertible – $73,000 (+$1100)
M240i convertible – $85,800 (+$2190)

We’re big fans of the BMW 2 Series at Chasing Cars. You can read our review of it here. The upgraded 2018 model year BMW 2 Series will arrive in local showrooms from September.