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March 4, 2022
BMW's compact coupe, the 2 Series, arrives in Japan—achieving a more dynamic, coupe-like drive | BMW
BMW 220i
BMW M240i xDrive
The Compact Coupe 2 Series Arrives in Japan
BMW has announced the compact coupe "2 Series" and the high-performance model "M240i xDrive." Sales have commenced.
Text by YANAKA Tomomi
The 220i: BMW's Traditional, Segment-Exclusive FR
The new 2 Series, a compact coupe inheriting the lineage of the "BMW 02 Series" that debuted in 1966, has arrived in Japan.
The powertrain is a combination of a 2.0-liter inline 4-cylinder gasoline twin-turbo engine producing a maximum output of 135kW (184ps) and 300Nm of torque, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. It employs rear-wheel drive, a BMW tradition and unique in its segment.
In the new 2 Series, the driving performance of the previous model has been refined. To achieve a dynamic, coupe-like drive, an ideal front-to-rear weight distribution of approximately 50:50 has been adopted. Furthermore, while reducing weight, the suspension mounting points and underframe have been strengthened. The body's high rigidity has also been enhanced, leading to improved roll rigidity and sharp handling, while also increasing safety in the event of a collision.
Additionally, aluminum is used not only for the hood but also for the engine carrier and its connecting parts. This achieves the seemingly contradictory goals of enhancing body rigidity and reducing weight.
The exterior forms a wide and muscular silhouette, creating a sharp and refined styling.
Inside, the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant, utilizing AI technology, supports the driver. Unlike previous voice input systems, it understands driver commands and questions in a more natural conversational style, activating appropriate services. It also learns the driver's preferences based on usage frequency, enabling it to act as a true driving partner the longer you own the car.
Furthermore, it is equipped with Amazon Alexa. Simply speaking to Alexa allows for checking weather forecasts, news, and playing music streams. By linking Alexa with the owner's smartphone app "My BMW," various Alexa services and functions can be used as if at home.
In terms of safety equipment, the advanced safety feature Driving Assistant, enhanced in precision and accuracy through analysis by high-performance cameras, radar, and processors, is standard. Features such as Active Cruise Control with Stop & Go function, Lane Change Warning, and Collision Mitigation Braking support safe driving.
In addition, the Parking Assistant, which includes the Reversing Assistant function, is also standard. This function remembers the last 50 meters of the route traveled forward at speeds up to 35 km/h and can accurately retrace the same route in reverse.