Following numerous leaks and spy shots, BMW has officially revealed the 2 Series Coupé.

At first glance the new arrival looks like a bloated version of the 1 Series Coupé, the model it replaces. The surfacing is noticeably less taut, particularly around the heavily flared rear wheel arches, but at least the 2 Series gets unique front-end styling to differentiate it from the closely-related 1 Series hatchback.

The effect is reinforced by a significant increase in dimensions. With a length of 4,432 mm (14’ 6”) and a width of 1,774 mm (5’ 10”), the 2 Series is 72 mm (3”) longer and 26 mm (1”) wider than its predecessor. Consequently there’s now more rear legroom, plus boot space has risen by 5% to 390 litres.

BMW 2 Series Coupé Sport (2014) Front Side

Buyers will have a choice of SE, Sport, Modern and M Sport trim grades. All versions come equipped with Bluetooth connectivity, a DAB radio, a 6.5” colour screen and iDrive controller, automatic climate control and rear park distance control as standard.

Heading the range is the M235i Coupé, which is powered by a turbocharged six-cylinder engine. With 321 bhp (240 kW / 326 PS) and 450 Nm (332 lb/ft) of peak torque, it’ll sprint from zero to 62 mph (100 km/h) in just 5.0 seconds (or 4.8 seconds if the optional eight-speed automatic transmission is fitted). To match that impressive performance, the M235i also features a specially calibrated suspension set-up, the M Sport braking system and Variable Sport Steering.

Initially, the rear-wheel drive 2 Series is also going to be available in 220i and 220d guises, both of which have four-cylinder motors. They’ll be joined soon after launch by a further two diesel options: the entry-level 218d and the six-cylinder 225d.

UK sales of the 2014 BMW 2 Series Coupé begin next March, with prices ranging from £24,265 for the 218d SE to £34,250 for the M235i.