2025 BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe: A New Generation of Sporty Elegance
BMW has unveiled the second generation of its 2 Series Gran Coupe, designated with the chassis code F74, succeeding the previous F44 model. The 2025 BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe brings a blend of enhanced performance, refreshed styling, and advanced technology, aiming to offer an elevated driving experience in the premium compact segment.
Refined Design and Proportions
The new F74 generation embraces a more dynamic and athletic stance, courtesy of the standard M Sport exterior design package. The front fascia features a prominent BMW kidney grille framed by redesigned headlights that stretch into the fenders. The car's length extends marginally by 0.7 inches to 179.2 inches, while height increases by one inch to 56.9 inches, offering a roomier interior without altering the 105.1-inch wheelbase.
The side profile exhibits classic BMW proportions with a long hood, short overhangs, and a flowing roofline that gently slopes towards the rear. A distinct crease near the C-pillar emphasizes the muscular shoulder line, and the traditional Hofmeister kink now features a subtle "2" embossing. At the rear, slender LED taillights and a sculpted bumper contribute to a modern and powerful appearance. The M235 xDrive Gran Coupe distinguishes itself with quad exhaust tips, underscoring its performance credentials.
Upgraded Interior and Technology
Stepping inside, the 2025 2 Series Gran Coupe has undergone a significant interior overhaul. The cockpit is more driver-focused, featuring the new BMW Curved Display that combines a 10.25-inch instrument cluster and a 10.7-inch control display. Operating on the latest BMW Operating System 9 with QuickSelect, the infotainment system offers improved functionality and personalization.
The cabin comes standard with heated sport seats upholstered in Perforated Veganza, a leather-free material available in four colors. An optional Veganza/Alcantara combination with contrasting stitching is also offered. For the first time, buyers can opt for massaging Active Front Seats with lumbar support, elevating comfort during long drives. Ambient lighting, dynamically backlit interior trims made from milled aluminum, and a redesigned steering wheel with illuminated controls enhance the premium feel.
Powertrains and Performance Enhancements
The 2025 2 Series Gran Coupe introduces revised powertrains for both the 228 and M235 models. The 228 xDrive Gran Coupe is powered by a heavily updated 2.0-liter TwinPower Turbo four-cylinder engine, now producing 241 horsepower between 4,500 and 6,500 rpm, and a substantial 295 lb-ft of torque from 1,500 to 4,000 rpm. Paired exclusively with a new 7-speed Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT), the 228 xDrive accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in 5.8 seconds. A two-wheel-drive 228 sDrive Gran Coupe will join the lineup mid-2025, offering the same powertrain at a lower starting price.
The performance-oriented M235 xDrive Gran Coupe boasts a 2.0-liter engine tuned to deliver 312 horsepower from 5,750 to 6,500 rpm and 295 lb-ft of torque between 2,000 and 4,500 rpm. Equipped with the same 7-speed DCT and BMW's xDrive all-wheel-drive system, it sprints from 0 to 60 mph in an impressive 4.7 seconds. The M235 xDrive also features a mechanical limited-slip differential on the front axle, adaptive M suspension, and optional M Compound brakes for enhanced handling and stopping power.
Chassis Improvements and Handling
BMW has focused on refining the ride and handling characteristics of the new 2 Series Gran Coupe. Both models come standard with the Adaptive M Suspension, which offers variable damping for improved comfort and agility. The chassis benefits from increased rigidity and revised suspension components, including a single-joint strut front axle and a three-link rear axle with new parts to optimize weight and stiffness.
The near-actuator wheel slip limitation system, integrated into the engine management, provides quicker and more precise traction control interventions. Additionally, the integrated braking system offers consistent brake pedal feel and performance under various conditions. The M235 xDrive Gran Coupe further enhances dynamics with model-specific tuning and features like the Sport Boost function, which maximizes powertrain and chassis settings for immediate acceleration when needed.
Comparing Generations: F74 vs. F44
Compared to the first-generation F44 model, the new F74 2 Series Gran Coupe brings noticeable advancements. The exterior design is sharper, with the standard M Sport package giving it a more aggressive presence. The interior sees a significant tech upgrade with the BMW Curved Display and Operating System 9, moving away from the more traditional layout of the previous generation.
Performance-wise, the updated engines offer more power and torque across the range, with improved 0-60 mph acceleration times for both the 228 and M235 models. The introduction of the 7-speed DCT replaces the previous 8-speed automatic, aiming to provide quicker shifts and enhanced driving dynamics. Furthermore, the adoption of standard Adaptive M Suspension and advanced driver assistance systems marks a step forward in both comfort and safety over the F44.
Model Variants, Pricing, and Equipment
The 2025 BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe will be available in three variants. The 228 xDrive Gran Coupe starts at $41,600 (excluding $1,175 destination and handling) and comes equipped with all-wheel drive. The rear-wheel-drive 228 sDrive Gran Coupe, debuting mid-2025, starts at $39,600 plus destination. The range-topping M235 xDrive Gran Coupe begins at $49,500 before destination charges.
Standard equipment across the lineup has been enhanced, offering features such as the Harman/Kardon premium sound system, wireless device charging, Comfort Access keyless entry, and the BMW Digital Key Plus, which uses ultra-wideband technology to unlock the car via smartphone or smartwatch. The 2 Series Gran Coupe also comes with a suite of driver assistance systems, including Active Driving Assistant and Parking Assistant.
Optional packages allow for further customization. The M Sport Package adds performance and aesthetic upgrades to the 228 models, while the M Sport Professional Package enhances the M235 xDrive with features like M Compound brakes and M Sport seats. The Technology Package introduces BMW Live Cockpit Professional with Augmented Reality navigation and a Head-Up Display.
Advanced Driver Assistance Systems
The 2025 2 Series Gran Coupe incorporates an array of driver assistance features aimed at convenience and safety. Standard systems include Frontal Collision Mitigation, Lane Keeping Assistant, and Active Blind Spot Detection. The optional Driving Assistance Plus Package adds Distance Control and Steering and Lane Control Assistant, enabling Level 2 semi-autonomous driving in certain conditions.
For those seeking even more advanced capabilities, the Driving Assistance Professional Package offers Side Collision Protection, Traffic Jam Assistant, and other features that allow for hands-free driving on select highways at speeds up to 40 mph, provided the driver remains attentive.
Embracing Digitalization
The new 2 Series Gran Coupe embraces digital innovation with the latest BMW Operating System 9, providing a more intuitive user experience through the BMW Curved Display. Features like the cloud-based BMW Maps navigation and smartphone integration with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come standard.
BMW Digital Premium services allow drivers to access entertainment options, including music and video streaming, news, and even in-car gaming through the AirConsole platform. The vehicle also supports over-the-air updates, ensuring that the software remains up to date with the latest features and improvements.
Final Thoughts: A Significant Step Forward
The 2025 BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe represents a substantial evolution from its predecessor, the F44. With the new F74 model, BMW has infused the compact Gran Coupe with greater performance, advanced technology, and a refined design language. Whether it's the enhanced powertrains, the driver-focused interior, or the expanded suite of digital services and driver assistance features, the new 2 Series Gran Coupe aims to offer a more engaging and sophisticated experience for drivers in the premium compact segment.
-Ed
2025 BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe
