The BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe has always been a bit of an oddball in BMW’s lineup, a compact four-door “coupe” that straddles the line between sporty and practical. But now, it’s back in its second generation as the BMW 218, and it’s raising eyebrows for all the wrong reasons.
Because under that sleek, shark-nosed bonnet no longer sits a feisty 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine. BMW has swapped it out for a 1.5-litre, 3-cylinder turbo-petrol, the same configuration you’d find in some hatchbacks. And with a price tag of ₹48.9 lakh ex-showroom, it’s fair to ask, has BMW lost the plot?
Three’s a Crowd: The Big Change
Let’s get the numbers out of the way, 150 horsepower and 230 Nm of torque. Decent on paper, but hardly the kind of output you expect from a brand that built its reputation on sheer driving pleasure. Especially when cars half the price can match or even better those figures.
So yes, this is not a car aimed at enthusiasts. The 218 is more about image, refinement, and everyday comfort, but how well does that actually work in practice?
Behind the Wheel: All Chassis, No Heart
To put it bluntly, the new engine is underwhelming. At idle, the 3-cylinder thrum is noticeable, and once you start driving, there’s a slight delay when you hit the throttle. There’s no mild-hybrid assist either, something that could’ve masked the lag and added a bit of smoothness.
BMW gives you a “boost” button, but don’t get excited, it doesn’t unleash extra horsepower like a nitro shot, it just adjusts the gearing for quicker response.
Thankfully, the 7-speed dual-clutch gearbox saves the day. It’s smooth, snappy, and smart enough to keep the car in its sweet spot most of the time. Switch to Sport mode, and the throttle perks up a little, but you can’t shake the feeling that the car’s missing that signature BMW punch.
Now, the good news: handling.
This is where BMW redeems itself. The 2 Series feels tight, planted, and eager in the corners. Reworked suspension, wider tyres, and tweaks to the front axle mean this car can actually dance. The steering is sharp and direct, the kind of precision you expect from a BMW.
The chassis is brilliant, the powertrain just doesn’t live up to it.
Subtle Flex: Sharp Nose, Softer Lines
Visually, BMW has played it safe, and that’s not necessarily a bad thing. The new 2 Series is longer, wider, and slightly taller than before, which gives it better proportions and a bit more road presence.
Up front, you get a “shark nose” design with adaptive LED headlights, a sloping bonnet, and thankfully, a modestly sized grille that’s backlit for a bit of nighttime drama.
From the side, the coupe-like roofline and frameless doors keep things sporty, while the signature Hofmeister kink now carries a little “2” embossed into it — a nice touch. The 18-inch wheels get chunkier 45-profile tyres this time, bumping up the ground clearance to 165 mm, perfect for Indian roads.
At the back, things are clean and understated — sleek LED tail lamps, no fake vents or loud spoilers, and a generally minimalist vibe. But one thing stands out, BMW seems to have gone a little crazy with the M badges. They’re everywhere, on the fenders, door sills, wheels, and inside the cabin. It’s like BMW wants to remind you it’s “M-inspired,” even if it doesn’t feel like it.
Minimalism, But With Too Many Menus
Step inside, and you’re greeted by BMW’s new-age curved glass display, a single pane that merges the infotainment and digital cluster. It looks fantastic and feels premium, but it’s not the most intuitive system. Even basic tasks, like adjusting the AC, require multiple taps and too much attention.
Everything else feels typically BMW, solid materials, premium fit and finish, and a chunky M Sport steering wheel that feels great to hold. The front seats are sporty, supportive, and get extendable thigh support, ideal for long drives.
Rear seat space, however, is still tight. If you’re around 5’8”, you’ll fit, but not comfortably for long journeys. Knee and headroom are limited, and the dark interior only makes it feel more cramped. You do get rear AC vents and a sunroof, but beware, that sunroof can turn the cabin into a sauna on hot days.
Verdict: Who’s the 218 Really For?
So, the big question, who exactly is the BMW 218 Gran Coupe meant for?
It’s not for the performance enthusiast, that’s for sure. It’s also not the most practical or spacious sedan around. But what it is, is a gateway into BMW ownership, a stylish, premium, badge-heavy car that looks the part and handles beautifully, even if it doesn’t have the muscle to match.
At around ₹50 lakh, you could get faster, roomier, or even more feature-packed cars. But few will give you that sense of premium build, slick design, and the badge appeal that BMW carries effortlessly.
So yes, BMW may have trimmed the cylinders, but not the charm. The 218 isn’t about heart-pounding performance, it’s about having a slice of that BMW experience in a more accessible, city-friendly package.
