It’s no secret that BMW is planning to expand the 2 Series lineup after the current model finishes production with a four-door Gran Coupe. To get us even more excited, recent reports suggested the lineup will be spearheaded with a rear-wheel drive BMW M2 Gran Coupe providing 365 hp on tap.
Sadly, BMW Blog reports the full-fat M2 Gran Coupe isn’t happening after all. Instead, sources are now claiming the range-topping 2 Series will be an M Performance model, possibly called the M235i, though this name hasn’t been confirmed yet. It will be powered by a B48 engine with around 300 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque being sent to all four wheels.
The same engine will power the upcoming BMW X2 M35i, which we’ve seen undergoing testing in prototype form in recent months. While it may not be a full-fat M2 variant, BMW will still use the M Performance 2 Series to rival Mercedes-AMG and Audi RS models.
As for the regular FWD BMW 2 Series that will take on the new Mercedes A-Class Sedan, BMW Blog’s source indicates it will likely be known as the F44 2 Series Gran Coupe and be roughly the same size as the old E46 3 Series. Power will be provided by the same engines as in other UKL-based BMWs, including 1.5-liter 3-cylinder mills and 2-liter 4-cylinder ones on both gasoline and diesel.
Don’t think the rear-wheel-drive 2 Series is going anywhere, however. While recent reports suggest the convertible is being canceled, the coupe will live on, likely until around 2021. For now, BMW Blog claims that the next-generation 230i has been given the green light, but we would be very surprised if the popular M2 Coupe doesn’t get renewed for a second generation.
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