The BMW 2-Series MY2017 range has been updated for the North American market. The convertible and hard-top versions of the M240i and 230i have gained performance upgrades. The M140i hatchback bound for the European and several markets worldwide and the M240i models will be powered by the new 3.0-litre inline six-cylinder TwinPower turbocharged engine tuned to deliver extra 15 more horse and 53 Nm of torque over the previous M235i and M135i models pushing out 334 hp and 500 Nm peak torque.
As a result, the zero to 100 kmph sprint has improved by nearly three tenths while the fuel economy is improved by up to 7 per cent. The performance enhancements come courtesy of a new start-stop system, brake energy regeneration and a new coolant pump with improved functionality and oil pump controlled by mapping.
The three-door and five-door versions of the M140i can accelerate from standstill to 100 kmph in just 4.8 seconds when equipped with the standard six-speed manual transmission. Meanwhile, the optional eight-speed automatic will aid the models to get there two tenths quicker. The standard eight-speed automatic in the xDrive variants can do the 0-100 kmph run in a much faster 4.4 seconds. The outgoing models were 0.3 seconds slower.
The BMW M240i Coupe can get from 0-100 kmph in 4.8 seconds and the automatic in 4.6 seconds. The figures further improve to 4.4 seconds in the AWD version which is at an improvement of 0.2 seconds. BMW emphasises that both the M240i and M140i produce same performance outputs as the old generation 1 Series M Coupe. The spurred up output levels meant the new M Series cars are very close in terms of performance when compared with the M2 Coupe.
The M Performance versions with the six-speed manual transmission have been given improved rev-matching function while the new eight-speed auto ’box gets wider gear ratios for allowing multiple downshifts at a time and better internal and combustion efficiency. The other technological enhancements were the presence of a newer launch control system offering predictive shift strategy as it works alongside GPS to provide better traction. The prices of the 2017 MY updates will be announced soon for the American market.
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