The BMW 2 Series was initially launched as a coupe in 2013.
It was named after its rear-wheel drive layout and transverse engine configuration (Rear engine, longitudinal transmission).
The original 228i model featured a turbocharged inline-4 engine producing 240 horsepower.
In 2014, BMW added the M235i performance variant with a 322-horsepower inline-6 engine.
The 2 Series was initially offered in three trim levels: Sport Line, Luxury Line, and M Sport.
It was equipped with an 8-speed automatic transmission as standard on all models.
A manual transmission option was available for the 228i model only.
In 2015, BMW updated the 2 Series lineup by adding a new 230i model with a turbocharged inline-4 engine.
The M235i was discontinued in 2016, replaced by the M240i.
The M240i featured a 340-horsepower inline-6 engine and an upgraded suspension system.
In 2020, BMW launched a facelifted version of the 2 Series, featuring revised exterior design cues and updated interior trim.
A new 230i xDrive model was introduced with all-wheel drive capabilities.
The M240i xDrive featured a 382-horsepower inline-6 engine and an upgraded suspension system.
The original 228i and 235i models were discontinued in favor of the updated 230i lineup.
A special edition 'Shadowline' package was offered for the 2020 facelifted 2 Series, featuring a black exterior trim treatment.
BMW's 'Iconic Dynamics' concept underpinned the development of the M240i variant.
The 2 Series received a positive reception from critics and owners alike, praised for its agile handling and sporty demeanor.
Despite being marketed as a performance-oriented vehicle, the 2 Series also offered surprisingly good fuel economy figures.
BMW's iDrive infotainment system was standard across all trim levels, featuring an 8.8-inch touchscreen display.
The original 2 Series models were only available with manual or automatic transmissions in select markets.
BMW did not produce a convertible version of the 2 Series during its production run.
A long-wheelbase (LWB) version of the 2 Series was reportedly planned but ultimately canceled due to low demand projections.
The 2 Series shared its platform with the Z4 roadster, which was launched in 2019.
BMW used a range of lightweight materials, including aluminum and carbon fiber, to reduce the vehicle's overall weight.
A number of bespoke interior trim options were available for the M240i variant through BMW's 'M Performance' catalog.
The 2 Series received several awards during its production run, including the 2013 'Best Sports Car Over $40,000' award from Motor Trend magazine.
BMW's marketing campaign for the 2 Series emphasized its performance capabilities and sporty demeanor.
A number of owners reported experiencing issues with the vehicle's transmission and drivetrain in extreme temperatures.
Some owners experienced concerns about the 2 Series's reliability, particularly when driven aggressively or under load.
The facelifted 2020 2 Series was upgraded to include a new generation of BMW's iDrive infotainment system.
A number of exterior design elements were revised for the 2020 facelift, including a new front bumper and side sills.
BMW introduced several unique colors for the 2020 facelifted 2 Series, including 'Midnight Blue Metallic' and 'Storm Bay Metallic'.
The M240i xDrive model featured a number of styling cues inspired by the M4 GTS high-performance variant.
A limited-edition 'M Package' was available for select trim levels of the facelifted 2 Series, featuring exclusive interior trim options and exterior design cues.
In select markets, BMW offered a unique 'Sport Line Exterior Paint' option for certain trim levels of the 2 Series.
Some owners reported that the vehicle's adaptive suspension system could be prone to triggering excessive wear on the road surface under certain conditions.
A number of owners experienced issues with the vehicle's electric power steering (EPS) under extreme temperatures or high-speed driving.
BMW provided a software update to address several telematics-related issues in 2018, affecting some trim levels and model years of the 2 Series.
The facelifted 2020 2 Series was upgraded with an improved safety suite, featuring enhanced automatic emergency braking capabilities.
A number of owners reported that the vehicle's parking sensors could be prone to triggering excessive false alerts or 'chirps' under certain conditions.