New BMW Gran Coupe is grand

BMW is expanding its 2 Series range with this four-door Gran Coupe model.

As is often the case when writing about a new car from a premium German car manufacturer these days, this is a new, niche-filling model designed to expand the appeal of one of the firm’s existing offerings.

In the case of the BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe, that means taking the standard two-seat coupe, adding a couple of doors at the back, increasing rear passenger space, and making the boot bigger – though this model actually sits on a new platform that will be under the next generation 2 Series Coupe.

Under the skin the Gran Coupe is largely the same as the standard 1 Series, but there have been a few tweaks and upgrades here and there to account for the change in weight distribution that comes from having a longer rear overhang.

BMW is particularly proud of its frameless doors – a classy touch, while inside there are illuminated panels which make the cabin feel a bit more special at night.

There are three engines available at launch in the form of two petrols and one diesel, as well as three transmission options – a six-speed manual and seven or eight-speed automatics (depending on engine choice).

“The 220d has super direct steering and limited body roll, making itfunonaB road

BMW made a reputation for itself over the decades as the car enthusiast’s choice, putting driving dynamics ahead of all else, but it’s arguably swayed from that ethos over the last decade. It’s clear the firm is pushing to reclaim that crown, because despite ostensibly being a sedate family car, the 220d has super-direct steering and limited body roll, making it more fun on a B road than you’d perhaps expect.

From a practical point of view, the extra doors really do free up a lot of space.

There’s officially an extra 33mm of knee clearance in the back seats, and you certainly notice it, with adults able to sit comfortably. However, that tapered roof does mean headroom is quite limited, so taller passengers might find their hair brushing on the headliner.

As for technology, the headline news is that BMW has fitted its latest generation operating system that includes voice recognition and gesture controls. There’s also a lot of other useful technology normally found in models higher up the range, such as a head-up display and extensive driver assistance systems.

In the BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe there’s plenty of appeal. It’s not the most handsome model in the range, but its relatively small proportions and decent practicality make it ideal for small families while also being great to drive.