I thought 2 was better than 1; BMW replaces 1 Series with less dynamic-looking 2 Series

By Nick Jaynes Published October 22, 2013

i thought 2 was better than 1 bmw replaces series with less dynamic looking — What happened to the gorgeous lines of the old 1 Series or the visual dynamism of the 3? Image used with permission by copyright holder

BMW is set to officially unveil the new 2 Series this Friday. And before we see the well Photoshopped photos from Bimmer itself, we’re privy to some sneak peek pictures snapped by 2Addicts during a dealer presentation.

Screen Shot 2013-10-21 at 9.22.19 PM — Image used with permission by copyright holder

The early look is of the high-end M235i model in lustrous red. Underneath the hood, BMW engineers have bolted a 320-horsepower 3.0 inline six-cylinder, which sends power to the rear wheels.

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Although not pictured above, BMW will also offer a 220i sporting a 180-horsepower 2.0-liter four-cylinder that will, too, send power to the rear.

I absolutely love the looks of the new 3 Series and I was expecting to love the looks of the new 2 Series even more, as the 1 Series had been my favorite modern Bimmer on the market. After a quick glance at this M235i, though, I’m not so sure I love its lines.

It’s a bit too subdued for my tastes. Where are the sharp lines? Where’s the attitude? I’m just not seeing it. I worry BMW designers simply scaled down and ironed out the distinctive visual characteristics of the 3 to make the 2.

There is a chance for redemption, though. If Bimmer prices it right, I could forgive its bland outward aesthetics. After all, while the Audi A3 is all-wheel drive and the Mercedes CLA is front-wheel, the BMW 2 Series will retain its rear-wheel drive dynamism.

Perhaps the Germans can change my opinion of the 2 with some well-lit photos. We’ll have to wait and see. So be sure to check back Friday for the full production photos and further production specs.

Former Digital Trends Contributor

Nick Jaynes is the Automotive Editor for Digital Trends. He developed a passion for writing about cars working his way…

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