The coupe version of BMW's recently-launched 1-Series is expected to wear the 2-Series moniker when it hits European and U.S. showrooms in the not-too-distant future. Aside from the expected two-door body style, rumors claims that a four-door Gran Coupe and a shooting brake-esque Gran Tourer will be added to the lineup before the middle of the decade.
The 2-Series Gran Coupe will be aimed squarely at the upcoming Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class and the 2014 Audi A3 sedan. It will be longer than the 2-Series coupe and it will be given a thorough aesthetic makeover on both ends.
Under the skin, the 2-Series Gran Coupe is expected to borrow its rear-wheel drive platform and its entire lineup of engines from the regular 2-Series coupe, which will make it the only rear-drive offering in its segment. Â Whether or not a sport-oriented M-badged version of the car will be offered has not yet been decided.
The Gran Tourer model will be to the 2-Series what the 1602 Touring was to the 1602 compact sedan in the late 1960s. Its design will not incorporate any retro styling cues, however. A sketch posted on enthusiast forum Bimmerpost suggests that the car will take the form of a two-door wagon with a sleek silhouette, a rounded rear end and a low roofline.
If the rumors are to be believed, more information about both cars will surface when the 2-Series makes its debut next year.
