Minesh Bhagaloo
IF YOU’RE looking for a few tasty upgrades to your new BMW 2 Series, we have some good news.
The carmaker has announced a host of new bits and pieces for 2 Series drivers in SA, with the biggest news being performance gains for the 220d. Diesel fans will be chuffed with Beemer’s Performance power kit for this derivative, which pushes kilowatts up to 147 (12 more than before), and torque up to 420Nm (40 better).
Other mechanical possibilities, courtesy of the cuzzies at M, include a sports suspension (which lowers the Two by 20mm and adds harder dampers and shortened coils), and a performance braking system (with brake calipers painted in a choice of red, yellow or orange). And yes, special 19” alloys are an option too. The last piece of hardware goes out to M235i drivers – there’s now a proper-growling M Performance exhaust system on offer, which the manufacturer reckons will rattle your girlfriend’s bedroom windows.
On the aesthetic side, if your Two already has an M Sports pack (standard in the M235i), there’s now a M Performance Aerodynamic Kit which includes revised air ducts front and rear. To this look you can individually add a diffuser at the rear, and sharp attachments for the side skirts. Other possibilities include the kidney grille in black, side mirror covers finished in carbon, and side sills with special stripes and branding. Interior M finishes can include alcantara and carbon finished steering wheel, gear lever, and handbrake – and race pedals – all at a price.
These upgrades are available when ordering your 2 Series, or as retrofit items from your local dealership – but be warned, they don’t come cheap.
The diesel power upgrade, for example, costs R15 670, while the sports suspension will set you back fourteen grand on its own.