How Long is a BMW 2 Series? A Comprehensive Guide to Its Dimensions
Have you ever wondered exactly how big or small the BMW 2 Series is compared to other cars in its class? If you’re considering buying a 2 Series coupe or convertible, understanding its full exterior and interior dimensions is an important part of finding the right model for your needs.
In short, the BMW 2 Series measures between 175.2 – 182.2 inches long depending on the model.
This article will provide a comprehensive guide to the exterior, interior, cargo, and seating dimensions of both the 2 Series coupe and convertible. You’ll also learn how the BMW 2 Series compares size-wise to competitors like the Audi A3 and Mercedes-Benz C-Class.
We’ll cover key dimensions like:
- Exterior length, width, height and wheelbase
- Interior headroom, legroom, shoulder room and cargo capacity
- How the coupe compares to the convertible models
- How the 2 Series fits into BMW’s overall lineup
Let’s start by looking at the background of the 2 Series and the models available.
A Brief Background on the BMW 2 Series
The 2 Series is BMW’s entry-level compact luxury coupe and convertible. It debuted in 2014 as the successor to the 1 Series coupe and convertible. The 2 Series serves as an introduction to the BMW brand, sitting below the larger 3 Series and 4 Series models.
There are currently two body styles offered:
- 2 Series Coupe – A 2-door, 4-seat coupe with a sloping fastback roofline. Often compared to the Audi A3.
- 2 Series Convertible – A soft-top 4-seat convertible model with a power retractable cloth roof. Considered a competitor to the Mercedes-Benz C-Class convertible.
Under the hood, the standard 2 Series models are rear-wheel drive with a 2.0L TwinPower turbocharged 4-cylinder engine producing 248 horsepower. The high-performance M2 and M2 Competition models feature a 365-375 hp turbocharged inline 6-cylinder engine and track-tuned suspension.
Now that you know where the 2 Series fits in BMW’s lineup, let’s look at the key exterior dimensions.
Exterior Dimensions of the BMW 2 Series Coupe and Convertible
The exterior size and proportions of the 2 Series establish its athletic, performance-oriented nature with a wide, low-slung stance. But how do the numbers stack up compared to rivals?
2 Series Coupe Exterior Dimensions
Here are the key exterior dimensions for the 2 Series coupe:
- Width: 70.6 inches
- Height: 55.4 inches
- Wheelbase: 105.1 inches
- Length: 175.2 inches
- Curb weight: 3,320 to 3,535 lbs
With a short front overhang and longer rear overhang, the 2 Series has a sporty, rear-wheel drive proportion. The wide track and low roofline enhance the athletic stance.
How does that compare to competitors like the Audi A3? The 2 Series is 3.3 inches longer and 1.0 inches wider than the A3 making it slightly larger overall.
BMW 2 Series Convertible Exterior Dimensions
The 2 Series convertible is similar in size to the coupe but gains a few inches in certain dimensions when the top is lowered:
- Width: 70.6 inches
- Height: 55.7 inches
- Wheelbase: 105.9 inches
- Length: 182.2 inches
- Curb weight: 3,532 to 3,814 lbs
With the convertible top down, overall height increases by 0.3 inches compared to the coupe. The wheelbase is slightly longer by 0.8 inches as is the overall length at 182.2 inches.
Next let’s look inside the cabin at the headroom, legroom and other interior dimensions.
Interior Space and Seating Dimensions
The 2 Series interior is designed as a 2+2 layout with seating for two plus smaller rear seats for occasional use. Front seat passengers will enjoy decent room while taller rear passengers may find it tight.
Front Seat Dimensions
Up front, the 2 Series coupe and convertible offer similar headroom and legroom:
- Headroom: 40.5 inches
- Legroom: 42.0 inches
- Shoulder room: 54.8 inches
This provides adequate room for two adult passengers while remaining cozy. Overall the 2 Series matches up closely with competitors like the A3 and Mercedes C-Class when it comes to front seat space.
Rear Seat Dimensions
In back is where the 2 Series shows its compact proportions. Rear seat dimensions are:
- Headroom: 36.5 inches
- Legroom: 33.0 inches
- Shoulder room: 51.7 inches
The sloping roofline does cut into rear headroom making it tight for taller passengers. Legroom is also less than other luxury coupes. The 2 Series has 5.1 inches less rear legroom than an Audi A3 for example.
So while kids and shorter adults may fit ok in the back, the 2 Series realistically seats two comfortably up front.
Now let’s see how much cargo space you get with the 2 Series.
Trunk and Cargo Capacity
A small trunk opening leads to decent cargo room in the 2 Series for a compact luxury car. Here are the cargo volumes:
- 2 Series coupe trunk volume: 13.8 cubic feet
- Rear seats folded: 35 cubic feet
- 2 Series convertible trunk volume: 13 cubic feet
- Rear seats folded: 32.5 cubic feet
The coupe offers slightly more maximum cargo space but both provide enough room for luggage for weekend getaways and small shopping runs. The convertible’s cargo room is reduced slightly with the retractable roof mechanism.
Compared to rivals, the 2 Series trails the A3’s 10 cubic feet of trunk space but beats out the Mercedes C-Class convertible’s tiny 8.8 cubic foot trunk.
Overall Length of the BMW 2 Series
Now let’s look at the complete nose-to-tail length of both 2 Series models:
- BMW 2 Series coupe length: 175.2 inches
- BMW 2 Series convertible length: 182.2 inches
The 2 Series coupe fits squarely in the compact category with its 175 inch overall length. It’s about 14 inches shorter than BMW’s 3 Series to give some perspective.
The convertible gains just over 7 more inches versus the coupe with its power folding roof. But both provide a relatively nimble package that’s easy to maneuver.
In terms of how length affects driving dynamics, the 2 Series’ short overhangs and wheelbase make it eager to change direction. The coupe in particular feels light on its feet and begs to be driven quickly through curves. It’s an ideal dimension for backroad blasts.
Which 2 Series Is Right for You?
When it comes to deciding between the 2 Series coupe or convertible, the key dimensions differences to consider are:
- The convertible is 7 inches longer overall and offers slightly more rear legroom than the coupe.
- The coupe has a sportier roofline but less headroom for rear passengers. Its trunk space is also more usable.
- Front seat space is nearly identical in both models.
So for buyers focused on space for rear passengers or cargo, the convertible may be the way to go. The extended wheelbase and flatter roofline help open up the cabin.
For those who care more about an athletic coupe look and driving experience, the coupe is ideal. Just don’t plan to regularly fit adults in the tiny rear seats.
Either way you get classic BMW driving enjoyment and luxury appointment in a tidy, maneuverable package. Both 2 Series models strike an appealing balance for single or smaller families looking for everyday practicality and performance.
Conclusion
Whether you chose the coupe or convertible, the BMW 2 Series measures between 175-182 inches long depending on the model. It offers a cozy cockpit for two plus space for smaller rear passengers. While not the roomiest luxury coupe interior, there’s decent cargo space for weekend getaways.
If you found this guide helpful in understanding the full dimensions of the BMW 2 Series, share it with other potential buyers. And check back soon for more BMW model comparison content!
