According to BMW this is the new 2 Series Coupe, but we'll admit that the revisions are subtle on the outside. The 2 Series Coupe was a handsome looking thing already, so it seems as if BMW hasn't done much to spoil that. The main changes are a new pearlescent finish for the chrome grille surround on the nose, while there's more gloss-black trim included on some models. The other main exterior change is for the side skirts and rear apron, which have had their original black finish swapped for body-coloured hues.
Speaking of body colours, there are some new shades available on the 2 Series Coupe. Frozen Grey and Frozen Portimao Blue are two matte finishes that are on offer, while Fire Red and Skyscraper Grey have been added to the options list as well. BMW has also added some new wheel designs to help identify the new model.
OK, so is there a more significant update inside?
The main revisions surround the infotainment, which now runs BMW's Operating System 8.5 over two displays measuring 12.3 inches for the driver and 14.9 inches for the central touchscreen. It's an upgrade of the set-up in the outgoing car, with the main change being that the climate controls are now within the enlarged touchscreen. That has called for a revised air vent design, too, with new controls for the central blowers.
As well as a new touchscreen system, the voice control set-up has been revised to offer more functionality, while more apps are available to download from BMW's online marketplace. Finally, the ambient lighting is now offered with a pulsing 'waterfall' theme that comes in nine different colour palettes.
How about the important parts, the powertrains?
As before, the range comprises 220i, 230i and M240i xDrive machines. The 220i and 230i are rear-wheel drive - remember that this version of the 2 Series has more in common with the larger 3 and 4 Series models than the 1 Series, which is now largely front-wheel drive - and they are both powered by a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine. They make 184hp/300Nm and 245hp/400Nm respectively and can sprint from 0-100km/h in 7.5 and 5.9 seconds.
As its name suggests, the M240i xDrive has four-wheel drive as standard, although as before this is a rear-biased set-up, so the car should retain BMW's trademark engaging handling. This model uses a turbocharged in-line six-cylinder engine that makes up to 374hp and 500Nm of torque, and there's a 0-100km/h time of 4.3 seconds quoted. All these models feature an eight-speed automatic gearbox as standard.
Is there any other information?
The new 2 Series range is available to order now, with first deliveries in Ireland expected in autumn. Irish retail pricing starts at €52,730 for the 220i, rising to €61,780 for the 230i and €77,470 for the M240i xDrive.
The BMW M2 Coupe has also been revised and we've written a separate article on that.