2022 BMW 2 Series Coupe revealed: Smaller Mercedes-Benz C-Class and Audi A5 alternative distances itself from divisive 4 Series with classic looks

BMW has revealed the second-generation 2 Series Coupe, which will bring its classic looks to Australian showrooms at the end of this year.

Four engine options will be available internationally, wit the entry-level 220i and flagship M240i to be sold locally from launch, with the former still featuring rear-wheel drive (RWD), while the latter now only offers BMW’s rear-biased xDrive all-wheel drive (AWD) system.

The mid-range 230i will join the range in mid-2022, with it and the 220i continuing to be powered by a 2.0-litre turbo-petrol four-cylinder engine, although it producing 135kW/300Nm (+30Nm) in the 220i, and 190kW/400Nm(+5kW/50Nm) in the 230i.

Meanwhile, the M240i still ups the ante with a 3.0-litre inline six-cylinder unit, with it now developing 25kW more power (275kW), although torque (500Nm) remains steady.

Either way, an eight-speed torque-converter automatic transmission is in tow, with the M240i using launch control to sprint from a standstill to 100km/h in 4.3 seconds, which makes it 0.1s quicker than its direct predecessor. The 230i’s triple-digit claim is yet to be released, but the 220i requires 7.5s.

Styling-wise, the new 2 Series Coupe doesn’t follow in the tyre tracks of the larger (and related) second-generation 4 Series with a divisive (read: enlarged) version of BMW’s signature kidney grille. Instead, it uses a narrow, albeit wider, item than its forebear, complete with air flaps.

The LED headlights are a departure from the norm, though, with their daytime running lights pay homage to the storied 02 model by using an extended single hexagon signature, as opposed to the usual double take. The triangular bumper designs below are also unique.

Around the side, the fresh 2 Series Coupe shows off its sporty proportions, with its long bonnet giving way to a sporty cab-rear silhouette. While the slick sets of alloy wheels are sure to draw attention, it’s the flush doorhandles that make the biggest statement.

At the rear, the new 2 Series Coupe cuts a striking impression with a chunky tailgate with an integrated ducktail spoiler, while the LED tail-lights are of the three-dimensional variety. Then there’s the purposeful bumper designs.

Inside, the fresh 2 Series Coupe could be mistaken for the aforementioned 4 Series, with its cabin more or less carrying over, 10.25-inch central touchscreen and 12.3-inch digital instrument included. And yes, BMW’s iDrive7 multimedia system powers the whole set-up, complete with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto support.

The smaller Mercedes-Benz C-Class and Audi A5 alternative is available with a suite of advanced driver-assist systems, including autonomous emergency braking, lane-keep and steering assist, adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, park assist and surround-view cameras, among others.