Discover the new BMW 1 Series and 2 Series Gran Coupé: where cutting-edge design meets sustainable luxury
The redesigned BMW 1 Series debuts with a sleeker, more assertive stance.
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BMW has formally launched the latest iterations of its 1 Series and 2 Series Gran Coupé, showcasing bold design upgrades, advanced engineering and a sharper focus on sustainability.
The fourth-generation 1 Series and refreshed 2 Series Gran Coupé aim to redefine premium compact mobility, blending dynamic aesthetics with cutting-edge digital features.
The redesigned BMW 1 Series debuts with a sleeker, more assertive stance. Measuring 4 361 millimetres in length (up 42 mm from its predecessor) and a wheelbase of 2 670 mm, the five-door model retains classic BMW proportions: a long bonnet, a rear-set passenger cell and a tapered roofline.
Engine
The front end features a low-slung design, complemented by a forward-leaning kidney grille with vertical and diagonal bars. Standard LED headlights incorporate vertical daytime running lights, while optional adaptive LED units add matrix high beam functionality and blue accents.
The 1 Series boasts a revamped engine lineup focused on efficiency.
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Under the bonnet, the 1 Series boasts a revamped engine lineup focused on efficiency. This means a 118 and 135 as the engine choices with the three-cylinder in both the 1 Series and 2 Series producing 115kW and 230Nm from its 1 499 cc capacity.
The pair again share the same engine specifications for the M135 xDrive and M235 xDrive and this four cylinder mill generates 233kW and 400Nm from its 1 998 cc volume.
A launch drive with, admittedly, not enough in the way of twisty bits to truly put the cars to the test did allow for some time to cogitate on the competency BMW is building into its engines – the three-cylinder unit never sounding like a ‘threefer’ and producing a smooth, quiet and completely efficient driving experience with enough to make overtaking easy, while being gentle on the fuel gauge.
The updated 2 Series Gran Coupé mirrors its sibling’s tech advancements while leaning into sporty sophistication.
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Petrolhead delight
The xDrive versions remain petrolhead delights and unleash from rest to heady speeds in the blink of an eye, yet managing this with no intrusive engine or wind noise – and this before even turning on the engine in Sport mode.
On reflection and bearing in mind so many of our roads are pothole developments hamstrung by bits of tarmac, the rational choice would be the 118.
Finance
BMW Finance has also introduced a Guaranteed Future Value (GFV) and the 118 (R795 895) would cost R9 772 in monthly payments with a 10% deposit. Taken over 48 months the interest rate would be 10,08% and the GFV R505 450.
If the buyer handed the car back to BMW at the end of the terms and bought a new car, the total cost to them of that ‘usage’ would be R548 646. Should they wish to own the car they would have to pay in R505 450.
On a traditional lease over 60 months and an interest rate of 11,20%, the total cost comes to R1 100 473 with a balloon payment at the end of R318 458.
BMW has also prioritised sustainability through resource-conscious production methods and material recycling.
Digitalisation takes centre stage inside, with BMW Operating System 9 powering an array of connected services.
Image: Supplied
Interior
Inside, the cabin integrates the latest BMW iDrive system with QuickSelect, offering intuitive control over infotainment, automated driving aids and in-car gaming via BMW Operating System 9. Enhanced parking assistance and driver-assistance systems further elevate the tech offering.
The updated 2 Series Gran Coupé mirrors its sibling’s tech advancements while leaning into sporty sophistication. Its elongated silhouette features a low front grille, a flowing roofline and a muscular rear with discreet exhaust integrations (excluding the M235 xDrive variant).
The side profile highlights a pronounced shoulder line and the iconic Hofmeister kink, now subtly branded with a numeral ‘2’.
Digitalisation takes centre stage inside, with BMW Operating System 9 powering an array of connected services. The M Sport and M Sport Pro packages amp up the visual drama, while adaptive LED headlights (optional) add matrix beams and cornering functionality.
Both models underscore BMW’s commitment to reducing environmental impact. Efficient engines, recyclable materials and energy-efficient production processes aim to minimise their carbon footprint.
“These updates reflect our focus on driver engagement without compromising sustainability,” says Neo Sibeko, product manager for BMW Compact Class. “From chassis enhancements to smart digitalisation, every detail is crafted to deliver a premium, forward-thinking experience.”