New BMW 2 Series Coupe undergoes final testing, now with 374 hp



BMW has begun the final phase of testing on the new 2 Series Coupe with dynamic testing and tuning of its drive and suspension systems under racetrack conditions.

During the development of the new BMW 2 Series Coupe, the test and tuning drives on the Nürburgring’s Nordschleife serve as the ultimate test for wheel suspension, chassis, damping, steering and braking system. The interaction of the xDrive all-wheel drive system together with M sport differential will also be refined at this legendary 20.8 km loop.

Headlining the new compact coupe line-up is the BMW M240i xDrive. While regular 2 Series coupe will have power fed to the rear wheels, the M240i xDrive will have traction sent to the front wheels too. This is certainly not an issue, as the larger M340i xDrive we reviewed found the added twist at the front axle provides more confidence to enjoy the vehicle.

With 374 hp from the turbocharged 3.0-litre six-cylinder engine, the new M240i xDrive is more powerful than the outgoing BMW M2 by 4 hp and 34 hp more than the F22 predecessor. An 8-speed Steptronic Sport automatic transmission continues to perform the shifting duties.

With so much more power in this new generation BMW M240i xDrive, expect the 0 to 100 km/h sprint time to be faster than the record of 4.4 seconds.

BMW says the bodyshell has a 12% increase in torsional rigidity. New stroke-dependent dampers are fitted as standard, where the units respond sensitively to slight road unevenness and compensate vibrations to optimise comfort.

The new BMW M240i xDrive also sees a 50% lower lift at the front axle than the outgoing F22 model, as the company has placed specially designed front splitter, spoiler lip, air curtains and underbody covers to smoothen the airflow. The provides a more stable front end, assisting in better high-speed stability and turn-in into corners.

Both BMW and Mercedes-Benz seem to have fallen in love with all-wheel drive traction. The next-generation Mercedes-Benz SL roadster will also have its front axle powered variably through the brand’s 4Matic system.

Audi meanwhile has been campaigning their Quattro system on their S and RS line of performance vehicles close to twenty years ago.  

BMW will commence production of the new 2 Series Coupe from late summer 2021, but details of the exterior lights have been leaked which can be found here.


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