Several prototypes of the next-generation
BMW 2-Series Coupe were spied testing on public roads for the first time in
Munich, Germany. One of them stopped for gas, allowing our photographer to get
close enough to snap a few pictures of the interior. While it looks modern and
high-tech, the entire cockpit design carries over from the current 2-Series
Gran Coupe, even though the two are based on different platforms – but we’ll
get to that in a bit.
A close look reveals that the entire
dashboard panel with all the auxiliaries, including the infotainment system,
digital dials, HVAC controls, air vents and so on are identical to the 2-Series
GC. The steering wheel doesn’t seem to have changed at all, and neither have
the gear selector, central console with two cup holders and storage
compartment, and door cards.
Unlike the current 2-Series Grand Coupe,
which features a front-wheel drive construction, shared with the X1 and X2
crossovers and 1-Series hatchback, the 2022 2-Series Coupe will be based on the
rear-wheel drive CLAR platform. This will make it compatible with a multitude
of powertrains, including small three-cylinder units, as well as four- and
six-pots, although the former will be kept away from the United States.
The range-topping variant will still be
the M2 Coupe, which is understood to pack the same engine as the X3 M and X4 M,
as well as the upcoming M3 and M4. Mind you, the 3.0-liter twin-turbo
straight-six will be de-tuned, making around 400 HP.
BMW is expected to present the new
2-Series Coupe towards the end of 2020, whereas the M2 is probably around one
year away.
