The BMW 2 Series convertible has made its world premier at the 2014 Paris Motor Show. In the new 2 Series, BMW will be offering up four separate models, each with its own unique powerplant, including an M Performance version and a diesel powered model. Unveiled earlier this year, the new 2 Series, is promoted as a replacement and successor to the outgoing 1 Series.
Four engine offerings are to be made available to the consumer, starting with a four-cylinder, gas engine in the 220i. Capable of generating 184 hp (137 kW) and 199 lb.ft (270 Nm) of torque, the 220i features twin-scroll turbochargers, direct injection and variable valve timing. The 2.0-liter is said to be good for a top speed of 231 km/h (143 mph) and a 0-100 km/h (62 mph) run in a leisurely time of 7.5 seconds (7. 6 seconds with the automatic gearbox). Hardly whiplash-rendering material from a vehicle promoted as a compact sports car.
The next step up puts drivers behind another twin-turbocharged 2.0-liter gas engine, this time however output increases to 245 hp (183 kW) at 5,000 rpm and 258 lb.ft (350 Nm) of torque that starts way down in the powerband at only 1,250 rpm. As a result, the quicker 228i convertible can make that same 0-100 km/h (62 mph) run in only 6.1 seconds. Fuel economy figures of 6.8 liters per 100 km (41.5 mpg), and CO2 output of 159 g/km are quite similar to those of the slower 220i.
The premium engine offering of the bunch comes in the M235i package. Adorned with BMW’s M-designation, it comes equipped with an inline six-cylinder, bored out to 3.0-liter that's good for 326 hp (243 kW) and 332 lb.ft (450 Nm) of torque at 1,300 rpm. The petrol-powered M235i is outfitted with the M Performance package that receives power assistance from twin-scroll turbochargers, direct injection and VALVETRONIC variable valve timing. According to BMW, the M-influence gives the car the ability to hit 100 km/h (62 mph) in only 5.2 seconds and make a top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph).
The 220d convertible is the diesel offering. A 2.0-liter, four-cylinder diesel in the 220d features BMW’s TwinPower Turbo technology, a common rail direct injection with solenoid valve injectors, capable of a maximum injection pressure of 2,000 bar. Output figures for the diesel show it turning out 190 hp (142 kW) and 199 lb.ft of torque, figures which give the car respectable mileage returns of 4.7 - 4.4 liters per 100 kilometers (60.1 - 64.2 mpg), but unfortunately put it in the slower lane with the 220i for initial acceleration times.
As with many convertibles, torsional rigidity can be an issue, which is why BMW upped the 2 Series torsional stiffness by roughly 20 percent to better deal with twisting. The compnay has also reworked the dimensions and proportions of the 2 Series. The new car is now longer by 72 mm (2.8 in), making it just over 4.4 m (14.5 ft) long, and wider by a tick at 1.77 m (5.8 ft).
Underpinnings for the new convertibles come in the form of a double-joint spring strut for the front axle and a five-link rear axle sporting model-specific tuning capabilities. Though a performance brake package is standard on all of the new convertibles, the M235i receives M-series sport brakes and the Adaptive M suspension system with the option to trick the car out with electronically-controlled dampers and a mechanical limited-slip differential to keep the rear wheels in check. The entire lineup comes standard with BMW’s DSC stability control system and an electronic locking function for the rear differential.
Inside the new 2 Series convertible, BMW has not only increased the amount of interior space, but reportedly made it more comfortable and functional, with luggage space increasing by 30 liters to 335 with the top closed. The acoustically-designed soft top can be opened or closed in 20 seconds, while driving at speeds of up to 50 km/h (31 mph), ensuring optimal comfort in rain or sun.
Gadgetry includes BMW’s iDrive operating system with Control Display and an automatic climate control system that adjusts in topless mode. A nifty little cooling gimmick in the form of something called SunReflective technology is intended to reduce surface heating when exposed to direct sunlight.
The new 2 Series roadster is also the first model to offer BMW’s new-generation Navigation system. The Professional system is designed to accept navigation data updates "over the air" courtesy of an included SIM card.
BMW reports a market launch of February 2015 for the new 2 Series convertible, including the go-fast M235i.
Source: BMW
