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.
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