The BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe is the long overdue alternative to the Merc CLA

The Gran Coupe variant started off with the 6 Series (F12 generation), then with the 4 Series (F36 generation), and now comes the first-ever 2 Series Gran Coupe. 

It is BMW’s answer to the Mercedes-Benz CLA, both being a four-door coupe that shares the same underpinnings as its front-wheel drive hatch counterpart.

Visually, it looks similar to the 1 Series from the front but pay closer attention and the differences start to show. The 2 Series Gran Coupe has curvier headlamps design, wider grille, and unique bumper design. From the side is where the differences are obvious, featuring a coupe silhouette and four frameless doors.

There are 2 turbocharged petrol engines available at launch; a 1.5-litre three-cylinder engine producing 140 PS with 220 Nm of torque and a 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine making 306 PS with a twisting force of 450 Nm.

The latter is the range topping M235i which includes the xDrive all-wheel drive, a mechanical Torsen limited slip differential, M Sport steering as well as brakes. It shares tech with the BMW i3s, using the near-actuator wheel slip limitation (ARB) to boost handling agility.

The 2 Series Gran Coupe measures 4,526 mm in length, 1800 mm in width, and stands 1,420 mm tall. Wheelbase is at 2,670 mm and the boot capacity measures at 430 litres.

As standard, the 2 Series Gran Coupe gets driver assistance systems such as the Lane Departure Warning system with active lane return and collision and pedestrian warning with city braking function. 

It also has the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant, a digital character who can now provide casual conversation and tell jokes. Cars telling jokes, interesting times we’re living in.