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Originally Posted by SCOTT26
Interesting update - UKL platform is a modular chassis and can be adapted/subtracted as FWD or RWD.
Full decision on the next 2 Series is not final yet (full decision will be taken by the end of the year) and can use the UKL chassis but can adapted for RWD. (BMW M are fighting for RWD because the M2 is apparently even more outstanding than the 1er M Coupe).
What the strategy aims to show is a split between the 1er and 2er, but vehicles that cannot compromise on space and versatility will be addressed via FWD namely the 1er , X1 , X2 and Active/Gran Tourers.
THIS is the 1er Sedan but the strategy involves a 2er Gran Coupe. So that compact entry lines will mirror the upper segments in the BMW portfolio.
The G chassis or 35Up ( more info on 35Up platform) is too expensive to use for smaller compact cars and therefore starts with the 3er or in the case of the first entry model the G01 X3. |
This is a no brainer. Make the chassis so it can also use RWD.
If these photos are of what would be badged as a 2 series gran coupe for North America ( which is my own personal opinion) then BMW will finally be addressing a segment of the market that they vacated ever since the E36 halted production. If it is flexible enough in design to still be used as a 1 series FWD chassis for other markets or for orther MINI vehicles then so be it.. there indeed will be a lot of economy of scale. Missing out on the opportunity to bring a 2 series gran coupe (AKA E36 sized 4 door sedan) to the north american market would be an error BMW will sorely regret in the future. More small cars are still needed here.... and with all the models movig up in size... every auto manufacturer except for BMW has figured out how to bring smaller vehicles in to the US market. The civic, corolla, altima, have moved up and smaller models came in below. Audi is bringing over A3.. Merc has CLA... etc etc...
From your comments, " This is the 1er Sedan but the strategy involves a 2er Gran Coupe. " and that there are plans for an X1 X-Sport (extended X1) indicate to me that this platform should be able support both of those models.