With updated looks that bear a very strong resemblance to the new 1 Series, the 2 Series Gran Coupe in this next generation has experienced a major visual overhaul, appearing like an M125 with a trunk lid, on top of which sits a spoiler.

Planning to go into production this November, the all-new 2 Series has a long wheelbase for the Chinese market and with sharper edges. A front and rear resemble the new 1 Series, with a new wheel and grille design part of the new model year. Diagonal bars on the new grille pay homage to those on the new X3. At rear, it appears that a new tail light graphic will be in place and the fascia will take on a cleaner design.

Inside, a digital instrument cluster and infotainment touch screen are presented in one assembly and fewer buttons are featured compared to the current model. This modern dash design is more in line with the 2-Series Active Tourer that is sold overseas, made clear with a larger infotainment screen and a new center console with additional controls. That includes a small nub for changing gears as opposed to a traditional upright lever.

This next-gen 2 Series, which will be offered with a choice of front- or all-wheel drive, will be built on an updated version of the current ULK2 platform, which underpins other BMW models like the 1 Series, 2 Series Active Tourer, X1 and X2. It will ride on the same 2670 mm wheelbase as the current car and be 1800mm wide.

It’s expected to be longer, expanding 185mm to 4546mm, as well as 14mm lower at 1445mm.

Powertrains with 48-volt mild-hybrid assistance are also anticipated. Also in the area of power, Australian versions of the current model are available with a choice of three turbocharged petrol engines. The current 218i is powered by a 1.5-litre turbocharged three-cylinder petrol engine producing 103kW of power and 220Nm of torque. This is paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission. Meanwhile, the current 218i is powered by a 1.50litre turbocharged three-cylinder petrol engine that produces 103kW of power and 220Nm of torque, mated to a seven-speed dual clutch transmission.

For the updated 2-Series Gran Coupe, this current 228i model, which packs a 2.0-liter turbo-4 that makes 228 hp, will likely become just a 230.

A plug-in hybrid powertrain may also be added to the lineup, since there are no immediate plans for an electric 2 Series Gran Coupe. Any plug–in hybrid powertrain would also be more than likely borrowed from the 2-Series Active Tourer. It has a plug-in hybrid mode which features a turbocharged 1.5-liter inline-3 and an electric motor for up to 321 hp combined.

Spy photos published on the “Ministry of Industry and Information Technology’s” website, the organization where new cars are certified before going on sale in the United States, show a longer wheelbase configuration, with BMW intending to sell in China the 2 Series Gran Coupe exclusively in a stretched version. With its long-wheelbase configuration, the car will officially be known as the M235L, with the new flagship 2 Series Gran Coupe the next M Performance car to receive a quad exhaust. It will join the M135, X1 M35i, X2 M35i and the X3 M50. Similar to those cars, it will have the M badge prominently and proudly on the kidney grille.

Revealed in all its glory with design updates and chock full of power, the 2 Series Gran Coupe is one of BMW’s best sedans yet! Hang on to your hats and see what’s in store!