The first generation of the BMW 2 Series Gran Coupé, identified by the chassis code F44, represented the
materialization of BMW's new strategy for the compact segment. The model was officially revealed to the
world in October 2019, with its public debut taking place at the Los Angeles Auto Show in November of the
same year. The launch in global markets began in March 2020, with a production cycle that extended until
2024.
Design and Dimensions
The design of the F44, penned by Nicolas Guille, was conceived to make an impact and communicate the brand's
new proposition. The exterior is defined by an elongated and low silhouette, characteristic of a "four-door
coupe", with striking elements such as frameless windows, which reinforce the elegance and sportiness of the
profile. The front end is dominated by a wide, horizontal kidney grille and angled LED headlights, giving
the car an aggressive expression. The rear, in turn, stands out for its wide stance, accentuated by thin,
horizontal LED taillights that extend towards the center of the vehicle.
In terms of dimensions, the F44 measured 4,526 mm in length, 1,800 mm in width, and 1,420 mm in height, with
a wheelbase of 2,670 mm. Thanks to the front-wheel-drive platform, practicality was one of its strong suits.
The trunk offered a capacity of 430 liters, a volume 40 liters greater than that of the 2 Series Coupé (F22)
of the same era, demonstrating one of the tangible benefits of the new architecture.
Interior and Technology
Internally, the F44 shared its dashboard and overall layout with the 1 Series (F40), featuring a clearly
driver-oriented cockpit, a BMW design signature. The focus on technology was evident, with the model being
equipped with the iDrive 7 infotainment system. The highest-trim versions, featuring the BMW Live Cockpit
Professional, had two 10.25-inch digital screens, one for the instrument cluster and another for the
multimedia center, which could be operated by touch, gestures, or by the voice assistant activated by the
"Hello BMW" command. The system also allowed for remote software updates (over-the-air), keeping the vehicle
consistently up to date.
Another important innovation was the introduction of the BMW Digital Key. Using near-field communication
(NFC) technology, the owner could unlock the doors and start the engine using only a compatible smartphone,
eliminating the need for a physical key. This digital key could be shared with up to five other people,
adding a layer of convenience and modernity.
This heavy investment in technology was not a mere accessory, but a centerpiece of the F44's value
proposition. In a segment where BMW could no longer use rear-wheel drive as its main selling point,
technology emerged as a crucial differentiator. The target audience for premium compact sedans is generally
younger and highly connected, valuing the digital experience just as much as driving dynamics. By equipping
the F44 with the most modern tools in its technological arsenal at the time, BMW positioned the car not just
as a design alternative to the CLA and the A3, but as a technologically superior proposition. This strategy
signaled a shift in the brand's philosophy, where digital innovation would become a fundamental pillar of
the driving experience across all segments, including entry-level models.
Versions and Technical Specifications (Global)
The first generation's engine lineup was comprehensive, offering gasoline and diesel options to suit
different markets and legislations. All engines complied with the Euro 6d-TEMP emissions standard and came
equipped with particulate filters. The diesel engines also featured the AdBlue catalytic reduction system.
The following table details the main engine options available globally for the BMW 2 Series Gran Coupé (F44)
during its production cycle.
| Model |
Engine |
Displacement |
Power |
Torque |
0-100 km/h |
| Gasoline Engines |
| 218i |
1.5L 3-Cylinder Turbo (B38) |
1,499 cm³ |
140 hp @ 4,600-6,500 rpm |
220 Nm @ 1,480-4,200 rpm |
8.7 s |
| 220i |
2.0L 4-Cylinder Turbo (B48) |
1,998 cm³ |
178 hp @ 5,000-5,500 rpm |
280 Nm @ 1,350-4,200 rpm |
7.1 s |
| M235i xDrive |
2.0L 4-Cylinder Turbo (B48) |
1,998 cm³ |
306 hp @ 5,000-6,250 rpm |
450 Nm @ 1,800-4,500 rpm |
4.9 s |
| Diesel Engines |
| 216d |
1.5L 3-Cylinder Turbo (B37) |
1,496 cm³ |
116 hp @ 4,000 rpm |
270 Nm @ 1,750-2,250 rpm |
10.3 s |
| 218d |
2.0L 4-Cylinder Turbo (B47) |
1,995 cm³ |
150 hp @ 4,000 rpm |
350 Nm @ 1,750-2,500 rpm |
8.5 s |
| 220d |
2.0L 4-Cylinder Turbo (B47) |
1,995 cm³ |
190 hp @ 4,000 rpm |
400 Nm @ 1,750-2,500 rpm |
7.5 s |
Transmission options varied according to the engine, including a 6-speed manual gearbox (available for the
218i in some markets), a 7-speed dual-clutch automated transmission (DCT), and an Aisin 8-speed automatic
for the more powerful versions, such as the M235i xDrive.