SPIED: All-New Spy Shots Of A BMW 2-Series — 220i? LCI? Three-Cylinder Model On The Way?

Spotted in SoCal, thanks to our very handy Fred Khaz, was a BMW 2-Series. While seeing any other 2-Series is a non-event, this one was a bit more special.

It could have been the camouflage or the plates that gave it away, but it seems that BMW is doing one of a few things. Thanks to Khaz's spy shots, we're thinking that BMW is up to one of the following:

- In the process of developing a 220i for the U.S. market;
- Working on the lifecycle impulse (BMW's marketing language for a refresh, LCI) for the 2-Series Coupe — remember we did just see the 1-Series get an update;
- Developing a three-cylinder 2-Series as a proper entry-level model in The States; OR,
- It's just durability testing the 2'er.

After carefully inspecting the pictures, there are two things that stand out and are, unfortunately, indecipherable.

First, I cannot make out if that's a single or dual exhaust tip. If it were a single, I'd say this would be a 220i set to make its way here. Considering both the 228i and 320i start at about $32,000 each, why wouldn't the Bavarians want to make the 2'er a bit more competitive as an entry-level product with a lower barrier of entry?

Second, the sticker on the passenger side window is illegible. Unfortunately, when I zoom in on it it becomes far too pixelated to read. Of course a sticker doesn't provide ALL the answers in the world, I will say that we've seen hybrid and electric prototypes from BMW before and the stickers told us everything we needed to know.

All that said, scope out the pictures below and let us know what YOU think about this camouflaged 2-Series!

MBKing - 1/24/2015 2:05:07 PM

+4 Boost

I get the whole "let's increase market share" but why so many entry level models?? I drove a friends 320i and honestly, it was so stripped down and underpowered I was just confused on how any person would really justify buying. These low end models are just watering down the brand. I drive a N54 135i as my daily driver and I still think it is underpowered, I can only imagine how crappy a 220i is going to end up.

valhallakey - 1/24/2015 8:01:32 PM

+3 Boost

When BMW was building it's reputation it was not all about power, but more about the balance of power and handling… In Europe almost all the entry level German cars (BMW/Merc/Audi) start out with cloth interiors and are fairly basic. But still you can see 318d and 320d models running 120+ on the autobahn all day long. Even when not spending a lot of money it is nice to have a good handling well built car.

Agent00R - 1/25/2015 9:13:22 AM

-1 Boost

+1

What @valhallakey said.

quizz - 1/25/2015 6:54:16 PM

+1 Boost

Have you ever driven a 1980's 318i? 320i? Super weak engines, but still superb balance and handling.

MDarringer - 1/24/2015 6:32:13 PM

+2 Boost

Is the BMW 3 cylinder half as good as their 6?

Agent00R - 1/25/2015 9:14:14 AM

-3 Boost

Having driven the three-cylinder in the all-new MINI as well as in their prototype 1-Series, I'd say it is just as good as its six-cylinder motor.

A little more rough on the low end of the rev range but a damn good motor.

MDarringer - 1/25/2015 10:17:31 AM

+5 Boost

Beside the point! 3 cylinders is not premium,

focal - 1/26/2015 10:36:30 AM

0 Boost

I'm tired of reading about engine snobbery. it's already too much power for the street. any sub 7 second car is more than adequate. it's so much power now, you need AWD to put it down properly. AWD numbs the acceleration that you need even MORE power. So having a relatively weaker engine is a blessing. See FR-S or Miata. Driving isn't an enjoyment for most and THE BRAND of the car is more important now. Just like the suit you wear, the handbag you carry or the watch on your wrist.

The current F30 320i does strip things away, but the core value of the car (handling/chassis) are still intact. The 8AT is VERY good. Electronic steering is a new reality so we have to get over that. BMW's implementation is still pretty good compared to their peers.

I am very old school in what I want in a car. Obviously with age, comfort and electronics also start to factor in, but I'm still looking for the core value of a good car. Manual transmission, RWD, decent power and good stereo. I'd love to get BMW's performance cloth over their leather but it isn't offered here. Fake leather isn't even that bad. It's actually more durable.

Agent00R - 1/26/2015 1:45:35 PM

-1 Boost

Very smart comment.

For me, typically 300hp is enough.