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The BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe returns in 2025 with sharper design, smarter tech, and a bit more grown-up attitude—without losing its street cred.
BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe. (Photo: Samreen Pall, News18)
When BMW first introduced the 2 Series Gran Coupe, it was a bold move—aimed at younger buyers who wanted the Bavarian badge, but in a sleeker, more compact form.
While the first-gen ticked many boxes on paper, it didn’t quite deliver the signature BMW driving experience in totality.
Fast forward to the all-new second-gen 2 Series Gran Coupe, and things have taken a serious turn for the better. Having said that, this time, they’ve gone big on refinement, tech and driving dynamics.
News18 Auto had a chance to take it for a spin. From the moment we slipped behind the wheel of the Alpine White beauty, it was evident—BMW has done its homework.
Design & Dimensions
Visually, the new 2 GC is sportier and more grown-up. The shark-nose grille now features illuminated Iconic Glow surrounds and a bold new structure with vertical and diagonal slats. The Adaptive LED headlamps, with blue accents and cornering function, give the front end a premium yet aggressive appeal.
Its coupe-like silhouette remains a key highlight, but the new model gets a 20mm bump in length and stands 25mm taller than before. The sloping roof still eats into rear headroom, but the bold shoulder line and 18-inch M Light alloy wheels add to its athletic presence — a big plus for Indian road conditions.
Features
The cabin exudes a clean, minimalist vibe, with everything laid out just the way you’d expect from BMW — purposeful and premium. Taking centre stage is the BMW Widescreen Curved Display running on the latest OS9. It’s not just good-looking; it’s slick, responsive, and incredibly user-friendly.
You get wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, a cooled wireless charging tray, panoramic sunroof, and even gesture-controlled climate zones. There’s even a BMW Digital Key Plus for keyless access.
A standout addition is the new Super Boost mode. Simply hold the left paddle shifter for up to three seconds, and the car kicks into an “ultra boost” mode — delivering an instant surge of power that makes overtakes and quick getaways a breeze. It’s a fun, clever touch that adds excitement to your everyday drive.
But here’s the thing — no ventilated seats. For a car in this segment (and price bracket), that feels like a miss, especially when brands like Hyundai and Skoda are offering it in cars half the price. Also, there’s no glovebox — a rather odd omission that limits storage.
Safety Features
On the safety front, there’s nothing to complain about. It comes with the latest Driving Assistant tech — lane departure warning, emergency steering assist, rear collision warning and a solid 360-degree camera system. The car feels reassuring on the road, and the upgraded brakes give you confidence in every stop.
Powertrain Details
Under the bonnet, the 218i GC runs a 1.5-litre 3-cylinder turbo petrol engine pushing out 156 bhp and 230Nm of torque. Paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch Steptronic gearbox, the car feels peppy. What impressed us the most? The gear shifts are practically invisible. Whether darting through traffic or cruising on the highway, there’s enough power on tap and barely any lag.
Ride & Handling
This is where the real progress is. The ride was silky smooth — even on the broken patches of tarmac. BMW has upgraded the suspension with new dampers and improved brakes, and it shows. Speed breakers? Handled gracefully. Potholes? Barely noticed. The increased ground clearance (now up by 19mm) makes it friendlier for Indian roads, without making the car feel floaty. The car corners with precision, and whether in a straight line or twisty roads, it feels properly planted.
Rivals
Its key rivals include the Mercedes-Benz A-Class Limousine and Audi A3. While each has its strengths, the BMW has definitely upped its game in terms of ride dynamics and design.
Price Expectation
BMW hasn’t officially announced the price yet. But given the local assembly and equipment on offer, a smart pricing strategy could keep it around the Rs 45–Rs 50 lakh (ex-showroom) mark.
Verdict
The 2025 BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe doesn’t try to be everything for everyone—and that’s precisely why it works. It’s a car made for the self-driven. Yes, space in the rear is tight, and tall folks might find ingress a bit awkward. But up front, it’s a refined, exciting and connected place to be. It now feels more sorted, more grown-up—but without losing its youthful energy.
BMW hasn’t reinvented the formula. Instead, it’s perfected it. And that’s what makes the new 2 GC so compelling.
Samreen Pall, Senior Sub-Editor at News18, is a Computer Science graduate but a writer at heart, Samreen has one motto that she swears by: ‘Everything is dull and useless if it has no drama in it.’ This motto c…Read More
Samreen Pall, Senior Sub-Editor at News18, is a Computer Science graduate but a writer at heart, Samreen has one motto that she swears by: ‘Everything is dull and useless if it has no drama in it.’ This motto c… Read More
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