The thought of a three-cylinder, front-wheel-drive automobile appeared unthinkable a few many years in the past. But right here we’re in 2025, and BMW now presents a number of fashions with a formulation that diehard followers would by no means settle for. The two Collection Gran Coupe is already in its second era, constructed on underpinnings a purist couldn’t have imagined within the 2000s, not to mention within the earlier century. However Bavaria’s smallest sedan isn’t geared toward traditionalists; it’s a volume-oriented mannequin focusing on prospects searching for entry-level luxurious.
As soon as once more, BMW has spruced up the two Collection Gran Coupe with an M Efficiency model. Nonetheless, we’re not right here to speak in regards to the spicy M235. New photos from South Africa showcase a extra humble 218, outfitted with a small 1.5-liter gasoline engine. The turbocharged three-cylinder is the entry level into BMW’s sedan lineup, although some markets, together with america, don’t get this engine, which can be utilized in MINIs. Within the US, the “F74” is strictly a four-cylinder affair.
These press pictures present you’ll be able to extensively customise even a base BMW sedan. The compact four-door, proven in Fire Red, options an M Sport Bundle and a totally blacked-out kidney grille. It skips the usual 17-inch wheels in favor of an 18-inch set, though consumers can go for even bigger ones. Basically a sedan model of the most recent 1 Collection hatchback, this Mercedes CLA rival seems to be extra upscale than its predecessor.
Whereas the outside is a transparent enchancment, we’re much less satisfied in regards to the cabin. Name us old school, however we’ll miss the iDrive controller and bodily buttons for the local weather controls. Analog dials are additionally an previous pastime we’d wish to have again. There’s extra plastic than we’d want in a luxurious automobile, although we perceive the two Collection Gran Coupe occupies the entry-level place in BMW’s lineup.
For extra premium interiors, BMW presents no fewer than 4 bigger sedans (3,5, 7, and eight Collection), supplied your funds permits. We’d as nicely say 5 sedans, albeit the 4 Collection Gran Coupe is technically a five-door liftback. The 8er is dying, so if you’d like one, hurry up, as manufacturing ends in 2026.
With simply 154 horsepower and an automated transmission, this 218 GC isn’t going to set your pulse racing. Then once more, neither do the lower-tier Audi A3 Sedan or Mercedes CLA variations. These vehicles exist to introduce youthful consumers to the posh section. Automakers need folks to improve to higher-end fashions as their careers and incomes develop. The two Collection Gran Coupe additionally performs a key function in serving to BMW preserve its lead within the premium section.
Photographs: BMW South Africa
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