Everything You Need To Know About The BMW 2-Series

What is it?

BMW's new 2-series - much like the new 4-series - is BMW's new naming structure for the 1-series coupe. The 2-series is longer and wider (by 72mm and 32mm respectively) than its predecessor and also slightly more slippery through the air.

What engines are on offer?

Three engine variants will be offered from launch in March, including the 220i, 220d and M235i. Two more engines join the line-up - the 225d and 218d - in May. Gearbox options include BMW's six-speed manual (hurrah!) and eight-speed auto.

Specs:

BMW 220i

Engine: turbocharged, 4-cyl, 1997cc; Power: 181bhp; Torque: 199lb ft; 0-62mph: 7.0 seconds; Top speed: 146mph; Economy: 46.3mpg

BMW 220d

Engine: turbocharged, 4-cyl, 1995cc; Power: 181bhp; Torque: 280lb ft; 0-62mph: 7.1 seconds; Top speed: 143mph; Economy: 62.8mpg

BMW M235i

Engine: turbocharged, 6-cyl, 2979cc; Power: 321bhp; Torque: 332lb ft; 0-62mph: 4.8 seconds; Top speed: 155mph; Economy: 34.9mpg

BMW 225d

Engine: turbocharged, 4-cyl, 1995cc; Power: 213bhp; Torque: 332lb ft; 0-62mph: 6.3 seconds; Top speed: 150mph; Economy: 60.1mpg

BMW 218d

Engine: turbocharged, 4-cyl, 1995cc; Power: 141bhp; Torque: 236lb ft; 0-62mph: 8.9 seconds; Top speed: 132mph; Economy: 64.9mpg

How much will it cost?

From launch, the entry-level 220i will set buyers back £25,040. The 220d will cost from £25,865, while the range-topping M235i is priced at £34,250. Prices of both the 225d and 218d models - both due in May - are yet to be confirmed.

Should I be excited about the M235i?

Yes. The M135i was an absolute monster and proved to be one of the best value-for-money cars on the market. It could also do this...

Anything else I should know?

That's pretty much it, to be honest. There are four trim levels - SE, Sport, Modern and M Sport - in the line-up, however. Oh actually, want to see the M235i drifting?

Is the Pope Catholic?

Yes he is, and here's the video!

...and some more pics for you.