BMW has long been known for producing extended versions of its luxury cars in China, a trend that continues with the new 2 Series Gran Coupe. In addition to larger models like the 5 Series and X5, BMW has also stretched the 3 Series, X3, and even the X1 for the Chinese market. Now, the 2 Series Gran Coupe joins this growing lineup of extended vehicles.
Known internally as the F78, this longer version of the Gran Coupe is a successor to the largely forgotten 1 Series Sedan. The F78 has a wheelbase that is 4.3 inches (110 mm) longer than the global F74 model, bringing the total to 109.4 inches (2780 mm). This makes it nearly as long as the original 7 Series E23. The overall length of the 2 Series Gran Coupe is 183.5 inches (4663 mm), surpassing the length of the E28 5 Series. Despite the longer dimensions, the car retains its frameless doors, although the rear doors have been lengthened to match the increased wheelbase. The M Performance variant continues to feature quad exhaust tips and a subtle trunk lid spoiler.
BMW introduced the M235L at Auto Shanghai, marking it as the first Gran Coupe produced in China and the second M Performance model to be assembled locally, following the X1 M35L. The rear badge design, however, may raise some eyebrows, as the “M” and “2” appear in the same size, with “35L” written in a much smaller font beneath them. This model is not to be confused with the four-door M2.
Under the hood, the M235L is powered by the B48 turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, which delivers 296 hp—matching the power of the European version. This is slightly less than the 312-hp version available in the United States. The car is equipped with a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission and BMW’s xDrive all-wheel drive system. It can accelerate from 0 to 62 mph (100 km/h) in five seconds, which is a tenth of a second slower than the European model, likely due to the added weight from its larger size.
In addition to the M235L, BMW is also offering a more affordable 225L version. The starting price for the M235L is 363,900 RMB (approximately $50,000), while the 225L version starts at 259,900 RMB (about $35,500).
