2020 BMW 2-Series Gran Coupe Checked From Up Close, It’s Definitely FWD

BMW continues the development of the 2-Series Gran Coupe, the Bavarian answer to the Mercedes CLA, with a camouflaged test car spotted on the back of a transport truck.

This time however our spies got the chance to have a peek underneath, which confirmed that the new 2-Series Gran Coupe will be front-driven, just like the new 1-Series hatchback. The rear end of the upcoming BMW 2-Series GC carries no driveline, putting an official end to older reports about it retaining a RWD architecture.

It certainly makes financial sense for BMW to use the same platform for both the 1-Series and 2-Series models; more powerful derivatives will get an xDrive AWD system, like the upcoming M235i which will reportedly be powered by a turbocharged 302hp four-cylinder petrol unit.

This will be the same 2.0-liter TwinPower Turbo engine that can be found in the X2 M35i, producing 302hp (306PS) and 332lb-ft (450Nm) of torque, paired to an eight-speed automatic transmission.

Despite the swirly wrap, the new 2-Series Gran Coupe can’t hide its almost completely different bodywork, featuring a high shoulder line and model-specific front and rear fascias. The rear end is set to get a cleaner design with characteristic LED lights while the front is also getting a unique treatment.

BMW’s answer to the Mercedes CLA is going to share most of the powertrains with the regular 1-Series, meaning a wide range of petrol and diesel units with three and four-cylinders. Sadly there will be no six-cylinder option but there will be plug-in hybrid options available.

The latest rumors also talk about BMW ditching their plans to offer a full fat M version of the 2-Series Gran Coupe but knowing that BMW M wants to expand its presence on the market, take it with the necessary grain of salt.

BMW will debut the new 2-Series Gran Coupe in the next few months, with a market launch set for late 2019, so stay tuned.