Hot on the heels of BMW South Africa’s triumph at the 2025 South African Car of the Year Awards, where the Rosslyn-built BMW X3 claimed the coveted title, the brand is maintaining momentum with the launch of the new-generation BMW 1 Series and 2 Series Gran Coupé. These refreshed compact models arrive with sharper designs, new powertrains, and cutting-edge digital experiences, emphasising BMW’s ongoing commitment to innovation across every segment.
Long known for injecting premium appeal and spirited dynamics into the compact class, the 1 and 2 Series have now been reimagined to elevate driving pleasure even further, blending sporty performance, sustainability, and digital-first luxury in two distinct formats. The 1 Series remains the quintessential hot hatch for the discerning driver, while the 2 Series Gran Coupé brings sleek sophistication to the segment with its four-door coupé silhouette.
DESIGN AND AESTHETICS
The new 1 Series takes a commanding stance, despite modest changes in dimensions (growing by 42 mm in length and 25 mm in height), now measuring 4,361 mm and 1,459 mm respectively. While compact in its footprint, its design presence is anything but small. The sharply styled front end, with its widened and lowered nose, introduces a new kidney grille marked by vertical and diagonal slats, framed by vertical LED running lights and standard LED headlamps. Optional adaptive LED headlights with matrix high beam and cornering functions provide added flair.
From the side, the signature BMW proportions are clearly visible – a long bonnet, a rearward-set cabin, and a sweeping roofline that flows into a strong, sculpted rear. It presents a look that is athletic and upscale, especially with the M Sport package available, which offers exclusive wheel options and enhanced aerodynamic features.
INTERIOR & DIGITAL INNOVATION
Inside, the cabin has made a futuristic leap with the integration of BMW Operating System 9 and the new BMW iDrive featuring QuickSelect. Anchored by a curved display and digital driver interface, the setup supports intuitive touch and voice control. Also new are ambient lighting features, upgraded materials, and additional automation technology, such as enhanced driving and parking assistance systems.
THE REFINED 2 SERIES GRAN COUPÉ
Positioned as a more style-driven sibling to the 1 Series, the updated BMW 2 Series Gran Coupé retains its low-slung, coupé-inspired silhouette while gaining more muscle in performance and design.
EXTERIOR DESIGN
A new front design features a more expressive interpretation of the kidney grille, utilising the signature diagonal/vertical slat style once again. Below, a larger lower air intake reinforces its sporty ability. Sleek LED headlights with vertical daytime running lights set the tone, while optional adaptive lighting systems add further sophistication.
From the side, classic coupé elements such as short overhangs and the prominent shoulder line highlight its dynamism. A distinctive embossed “2” near the Hofmeister kink subtly confirms its Gran Coupé status. At the rear, flattened LED lights and clean surfaces complete the elegant design. M Sport and M Sport Pro packages provide additional visual drama and performance tuning.
INTERIOR & TECH INTEGRATION
Echoing the 1 Series, the 2 Series Gran Coupé’s interior now features the latest BMW iDrive system and digital enhancements, including access to in-car gaming and expanded connected The cabin balancesluxury and performance well, enhanced by optional M touches like sport seats, unique trim elements, and upgraded digital interfaces.
POWERTRAINS & DRIVING DYNAMICS
Although the final specifications for South Africa are yet to be confirmed, the new 1 and 2 Series models benefit from an overhauled engine lineup that is now more efficient and responsive. Expect a mix of three- and four-cylinder petrol engines, along with mild-hybrid technology on select models, to enhance both performance and economy. The BMW M235 xDrive Gran Coupé, featuring its potent turbocharged powertrain and intelligent all-wheel-drive, will continue as the halo model in this segment, promising exhilarating acceleration and cornering prowess.
Both vehicles feature reworked chassis, designed to deliver sharper handling without compromising ride comfort. Suspension updates, enhanced damping, and precise steering ensure that the hallmark BMW dynamics remain intact.
LAST WORD
With the launch of the new BMW 1 Series and 2 Series Gran Coupé, BMW has shown that innovation is not confined to its larger models. These compact offerings combine cutting-edge digital features, bold styling, and agile performance or a premium experience on every journey. As the X3 proudly showcases the South African flag on the global stage, the new 1 and 2 Series remind us that BMW’s pursuit of excellence spans the entire range, making the Ultimate Driving Machine more accessible, and without compromise.
EXPECTED BMW 1 & 2 SERIES PRICING
BMW 118 – R713,395
BMW 118 Pure Design – R761,895
BMW M135 xDrive – R982,767
BMW 218 Gran Coupé – R733,559BMW 218 Pure Design Gran Coupé – R787,059
BMW M235 xDrive Gran Coupé – R1,043,099
REPORT BY BRYAN KAYAVHU | IMAGES © BMW SOUTH AFRICA
