The upcoming BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe has been
spotted undergoing testing yet again, and this prototype is still wearing quite
a bit of camouflage as before. When launched, the new model will compete
against the new Mercedes-Benz CLA.
The 2 Series GC will reportedly be underpinned by
BMW’s front-wheel drive UKL platform, distancing itself from the two-door 2
Series Coupe, which is expected to retain its rear-wheel drive setup in its
next generation. Additionally, this will also prevent the risk of cannibalising
sales of the 3 Series, which is rear-wheel drive.
Like other vehicles based on said platform, a mix of
three- and four-cylinder petrol and diesel engines are available as powerplants
for the 2 Series GC. These can be paired to either a six-speed manual gearbox,
an eight-speed automatic or a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission, with a
choice of front- and all-wheel drive.
In terms of design, the 2 Series GC sports a longer
front wheelbase and a shorter bonnet compared to the current two-door model,
based on observations. This mule also comes with LED headlamps and hexagonal
daytime running lights, the latter is found on recent BMW models as well.
Other notable cues are a pair of large kidney
grills, frameless windows and six-window glasshouse reminiscent of the 4 Series
Gran Coupe. Another current BMW trend, L-shaped taillights, are also present
here, as is a set of dual exhaust pipes.
