BMW 220d SE coupe
What is it?
A significant new number in the BMW model line-up. Goodbye 1 Series Coupe, hello to its successor the BMW 2 Series Coupe.
BMW has re-aligned its range with saloons still wearing odd numbers and their glamour siblings the coupes and convertibles now badged with even numbers. (Click here for our review of the BMW 4 Series Coupe.)
New badges are not the only change. The new car is better looking than its predecessor, and it is an upgrade from the driving viewpoint too. It is slightly larger, stretched 7cm in length, very slightly wider, and with a longer wheelbase and wider track.
What difference does that make?
With the wheels pushed just a bit further towards the corners, it has improved driving dynamics with a more ‘planted’ feel on the road. You can instantly spot the difference on a twisty country road, where the 2 Series displays more poise and precision than the old 1 Series Coupe.
Could it now be one of the best handling cars in its price bracket? Yes, that is fair comment.
Precise steering and good ride quality are part of the package. The ride tends towards firmness but is supple and compliant even though the car rides on largish 17-inch wheels.
Refinement is also a step up from the old car, with very little wind noise, minimal road rumble and mostly modest noise from the two-litre diesel engine.
Foot hard down, and the engine does become a bit more gruff and vocal, but overall refinement is pretty impressive.
OK, so it looks good and drives well, but what about space?
The extra cm in body size have scooped a touch more room into the cabin too.
Rear legroom is increased by 21mm compared with the old 1 Series Coupe, and six-footers have adequate headroom – just – in the back seats.
The boot has been increased in size by 20 litres to 390 litres. That is still pretty modest by saloon standards, but it isn’t bad for a coupe.
To put it in context with a key rival, it now has 100 litres more boot room than an Audi TT.
