IT’S GOOD TO be bad in certain situations, and whether you’re talking about rock stars or cars, sometimes an uncouth, contrary image is exactly what’s needed to sell.
Take the new BMW 2 Series Coupé for example: its square-jawed looks fly in the face of typical sleek coupé fare, and it’s stubbornly sticking with rear-wheel drive – a layout that traditionally promotes keen handling – when front-wheel drive might offer more benefits, including better fuel economy, less weight and more interior space.
Three versions of the new 2 Series Coupé will be available at launch. The entry-level 220i is powered by a 181bhp turbocharged 2.0-litre petrol engine that promises average fuel economy of 44.8mpg and CO2 emissions as low as 144g/km, yet it can still reach 62mph from a standstill in 7.5sec.
Anyone doing enough miles to justify a diesel can choose the 220d. Its 2.0-litre engine benefits from mild hybrid technology to help reduce your fuel bills. Officially, it can return up to 60.1mpg, with CO2 emissions of 122g/km. With 187bhp to call upon, this version can hit 62mph in a shade under seven seconds.
This story is from the October 2021 edition of What Car? UK.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the October 2021 edition of What Car? UK.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
Vauxhall Mokka 1.2 Turbo 136 GS
The Mokka is hot stuff in the sales charts, but does it deserve to be everyone's cup of tea? Let's find out
MG 4 VS TESLA MODEL 3 DO YOU GET MORE FOR LESS?
The new MG 4 Extended Range costs thousands less than the cheapest Tesla Model 3, yet it has a longer official range. Is that game over for the Tesla?
SAVER OF THE MONTH
These plug-in hybrid SUVS can all save you money on running costs, especially if you're a company car driver But which one will net you the most interest in return?
VOLVO EX30
As the Swedish brand enters uncharted territory with its smallest electric SUV yet, we ask the members of our reader jury to issue their verdicts
Vauxhall Corsa Electric
Small electric hatchback is brought up to date, gaining a slightly bigger battery option On sale Now Price from £32,445
Peugeot e-308
New electric family hatchback puts a French twist on the Vauxhall Astra Electric's recipe On sale Now Price from £40,050
BMW iX2
Electric coupé SUV promises up to 279 miles of range and will be joined by a new petrol-engined X2 On sale March 2024 Price from £56,540
Volkswagen ID Golf
Popular family hatchback gets electric power for an official range of up to 400 miles On sale 2027 Price from 33,000 est)
Citroën e-C3
Small hatchback is reinvented with electric power and an affordable price On sale Early 2024 Price from £22,000 (est)
BMW i5
Electric version of BMW's next 5 Series executive car guns for the Mercedes-Benz EQE On sale Now Price from £74,105