The M235 is the powerful version of the new 2 Series Gran Coupe, but will it come to India?
The M235 is the powerful version of the new 2 Series Gran Coupe, but will it come to India?
BMW's new generation 2 Series Gran Coupe has arrived, and in its M235 avatar, it's making a powerful statement. With a design that’s brand new and very edgy, particularly when draped in a striking yellow, this sedan demands attention. But the real question for Indian enthusiasts remains: will this potent, exciting version make it to our shores?
The M235 instantly distinguishes itself with an extra edginess not found in the standard car. Sculpted lines grace the hood, leading to a compact, taut grille. Sporty elements like specific wheels and blacked-out embeds further enhance its aggressive appeal. Proportionally, the new 2 Series Gran Coupe has grown, now appearing more ample looking and almost resembling the BMW 3 Series from a few years ago in terms of size and roominess, yet it retains a taut enough to be really sporty on the road aesthetic.
For decades, the 3 Series was the quintessential entry point to BMW; now, that role is often filled by the X1 or the 2 Series. The 2 Series Gran Coupe, particularly this four-door sedan configuration, is built as a driver's car first. This core characteristic, thankfully, "stays intact" with the new generation, even as it transitions to a front-wheel-drive platform.
The M235, as the range-topping variant, is far from humble. It packs a 2.0-litre engine generating about 296 bhp and 400 Nm of torque. This powertrain is responsive and fairly quick, truly coming alive when pushed into Sport mode. The suspension, too, is a key player in its fun-to-drive character, ensuring an engaging experience even on regular roads. The steering is just as responsive and pretty engaging, maintaining the classic BMW feel.
Inside, the M235 immediately showcases its M treatment. Cool red and blue accents, along with backlit trim on the dash, create a very sporty ambience. For those opting for the M Sport seats, expect a firm but well-shaped embrace, complete with a distinctive light-up M logo. Rear passengers under six feet will find the space "tolerable," with decent headroom despite the car's low roofline.
The cabin's technological centrepiece is a dual-screen setup: a 10.3-inch instrument cluster paired with a generous 10.7-inch infotainment screen. This curved unit is distinctly angled towards the driver, emphasizing a pilot-centric cockpit. Standard features include the convenience of wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with a handy wireless charging pad. For the ultimate tech enthusiasts, an optional Technology package adds a high-resolution camera, augmented reality navigation, and even automated parking.
The review concludes with a crucial question for the Indian market: will BMW bring in this powerful M235 variant, or even offer a diesel option? The absence of a potent version could be a missed opportunity for BMW, potentially allowing rivals like the Mercedes-Benz A-Class sedan to gain an advantage. However, there's a glimmer of hope for enthusiasts, with the possibility of a later limited variant for our market perhaps? Strictly for the enthusiasts? The answer, for now, is a hopeful "Ja bitte!"
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