BMW aficionados know that “F87” is the interior codename for the first-generation M2. Flip the digits, and also you get a completely totally different automobile. The “F78” shares nearly nothing with the nimble, rear-wheel-drive coupe. As an alternative, it refers back to the long-wheelbase 2 Sequence Gran Coupe.
Inbuilt China for the native market, the stretched 2 GC made its auto present debut at Auto Shanghai. We had been there to get a better take a look at a automobile BMW possible gained’t supply elsewhere. That mentioned, the 1 Series Sedan (“F52”) it replaces did make its option to Mexico, so by no means say by no means. In comparison with the usual “F74” 2 Sequence Gran Coupe bought globally, this longer variant provides 4.3 inches (110 mm) to the wheelbase.
BMW’s entry-level Gran Coupe now rides on a 109.4-inch (2780 mm) wheelbase, stretching 183.5 inches (4663 mm) total. For perspective, the China-only 2 Sequence Gran Coupe is longer than an E28-era 5 Sequence. Our walkaround video clearly reveals the elongated rear frameless doorways, hinting at improved legroom for back-seat passengers. The rear bench has additionally been re-angled and fitted with further cushioning for enhanced consolation.
The “F78” on show wasn’t simply any model, since BMW introduced the warmer M Efficiency variant. Carrying an M235L badge, it options the identical annoying styling element we’ve seen on the worldwide mannequin: the “M” and “2” are the identical dimension, whereas the remaining characters are smaller. To the untrained eye, it might simply be mistaken for a four-door M2, which it clearly isn’t.
BMW is pricing the M235L Gran Coupe at 363,900 RMB (round $50,000) in China, or about the identical because the standard-wheelbase model in the USA. Nonetheless, the U.S. mannequin has a efficiency edge, packing 312 horsepower versus 296 hp within the Chinese language model. That’s as a result of the China-spec mannequin makes use of a detuned B48 engine, the identical as its European counterpart.
The “F78” joins a rising checklist of stretched BMWs bought in China, together with the X1, X3, and X5 crossovers and the three Sequence and 5 Sequence sedans.
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