The intoxicating sound of an inline six-cylinder engine at full noise is fuel for the soul of the BMW enthusiast and Aussies won’t be left out in the cold this generation.
BMW has detailed the local line up for the next-generation 2 Series that will arrive later this year with prices starting at $59,900 before on-road costs.
Available in a choice of two grades the entry-level 220i can be had for the aforementioned starting price while the all-paw M240i xDrive will start at $89,900 (before on-roads).
Fans would argue that the 2 Series sits somewhat in a market of its own but it does share some similarities with rivals such as the Audi TT coupe, which will draw even closer comparisons when the successor to the current M2 arrives in Australia at some point in 2022.
BMW has armed the 220i with a turbocharged four-cylinder engine making the same power as its predecessor at 135kW but slightly more torque at and 300Nm.
This is sent through the ZF eight-speed torque converter automatic to the rear wheels exclusively, with no manual option offered on the current lineup this generation.
Those wanting a bit more punch but don’t watch make the $30k leap to the M240i will have to wait until next year when the 230i arrives with 180kW/400Nm squeezed out of the aforementioned four-cylinder.
Buyers looking for a but more punch can look to the M240i which returns the much-loved turbocharged 3.0L six-cylinder engine to the 2 Series range, with 285kW and 500Nm on tap.
All this is sent to an all wheel drive system, a first for the 2 Series in coupe form, which offers a blistering 0-100km/h time of 4.3 seconds which is a notable step up from the 7.5 second time required for the 220i.
The 220i matches it’s punchy little engine with sport suspension and a standard M Sport Package, which adds a specialised seats and a steering wheel, with a combination of Alcantara and synthetic leather dressing the interior.
As a daily driver the 2 Series naturally comes standard with a slew of tech and luxury features to make the experience more enjoyable.
These include a 10.25-inch centre touchscreen paired with that latest software with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Audio with is nicely matched with wireless charging for your phone.
Once hooked up, occupants can play music through their phone or use the digital radio via the standard six-speaker sound system.
For the driver, BMW has fitted a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster in place of traditional dials and a heads-up display will help keep your eyes on the road.
Safety wise, the coupe is fitted with parking sensors at the front and rear, a reversing camera and can even park itself if you want.
Aside from the performance benefits the M240i xDrive builds on this list with a whole host of added features that make it look the part and justify the price jump.
This includes a rear spoiler and lightweight 19-inch alloy wheels while the adaptive dampers and performance brakes should make it perform better in the bends.
Moving inside BMW has added a panoramic roof, leather interior trim, 14-speaker Harman Kardon sound system, heated seats in the front and power adjustable seats adjustable seats with lumbar support.
All prices listed are before on-road costs.
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