This just in… we’ve finally spotted the BMW 2 Series! Seen undergoing winter testing in Munich is this 2 Series Convertible (F23) prototype. If you recall from 2006, the very first 1 Series prototype ever spotted was also the convertible version, prior to the coupe model.

What do we see?

To the delight of many F20/F21 1 Series hecklers, even through the camouflage it appears the 2 Series headlights will indeed be sleeker and sportier! A comparison (photo below) against an F20/F21 1 Series prototype at this stage of camouflage shows the size and shape differences between the headlights already. The photos do not reveal whether the headlights connect to the kidney grilles as it does on the F30 and upcoming models such as the next X5 … CONTINUED

BMW inside Scott26 has posted the following summary of the upcoming 1 series, 2 series, M2, Z1, Z2, and X2 lineup, as plans stand now.

By 2020. BMW hope to have projected sales of over two million units.

The larger majority of this level of sales will be combined MINI/BMW based upon the UKL architecture of around 600,000 units , then you can factor in another large number of dedicated SAV sales before we get to the regular series models. As I have said before welcome to the automobile industry.

It is easy for the question “if I was in charge this what I would do?” But today you have to take in consideration of growing segments , established segments , established markets , new markets and exploiting … CONTINUED

First renders of the rumored BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe. Some info from BMW insider Scott26:

With the forthcoming separation of the BMW Compact segment family to accommodate each equal family such as the UKL/Next generation 1er , the current 1er and the all new 2er family are distant in looks and purpose.

The 2er maintains the ability of a RWD drivetrain and the benefits of an entry sports coupe. The renaming of the current 1er Coupe and Cabrio allows BMW to expand on the model line by resorting back to the traditions of classic entry BMW’s - Compact, focused and no limits when it comes to involving driver communication and dynamic handling. For the idea of this expanding family we have to go back to … CONTINUED

Here is a preview illustration of the upcoming 2 Series Coupe, courtesy of our resident BMW ‘insider.’ The 2 Series Coupe will replace the current 1 Series Coupe in the BMW lineup as the entry level sports coupe. It’s expected to debut in 2013. Per Scott26:

With the forthcoming separation of the BMW Compact segment family to accommodate each equal family such as the UKL/Next generation 1 Series , the current 1 Series and the all new 2 Series family are distant in looks and purpose.

The 2 Series maintains the ability of a RWD drivetrain and the benefits of an entry sports coupe. The renaming of the current 1 Series Coupe and Cabrio allows BMW to expand on the model line by resorting back … CONTINUED

BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe and 2 Series Gran Sport Tourer.

In a strategy to bring a more radical approach to the compact segment in terms of innovation and desirability. BMW are currently working on an entirely introductory downsized luxury model for the compact segment. Spurred on by an increasing demand for downsized luxury cars and potential competitors from Audi and Mercedes-Benz.

BMW are set to introduce their 2er line in a more expansive programme emulating the larger 6er and forthcoming 4er family line to offer the customer a more sporting and exclusive option.

The key symmetrical approach for BMW would be to develop a 1er Sedan off of their new modular FWD architecture alongside a currently in development MINI sedan - aimed at increasing the potential of the … CONTINUED

Ever since the introduction of the first M Performance cars (the new BMW model lineup slotting between the M models and regular series cars) earlier this year, we’ve been hearing and BMW has been hinting at such cars for the North American market.

Now that the first petrol model, the M135i (official info | reviews), has debuted, Autoweek reports that the M235i coupe will be the first M Performance model to arrive in the U.S. and Canada. The report states that the M235i coupe will start sales in the States in early 2014, after a debut at the 2014 Detroit Auto Show. We think this may be too early of an estimate however, unless the M235i will be launched together with the F22 2 series coupe (which … CONTINUED

BMW has been busy trademarking. Below is a list of some recent BMW trademark filings for future potential models. Remember, just because a manufacturer registers a trademark does not mean that the model will necessarily come to fruition. But, it makes for some fun speculation and certainly paints a rough map of what potential future models we may see out of Munich.

Recent Trademark List:

X2, X4
M1, M2, M7, M10
2 Series Active Tourer
M35, M40, M55, M300, M350, M400, M500
M130, M135, M140, M230, M235, M240, M330, M335, M340, M430, M435, M440, M450, M550, M650, M750
M50d
Compactive, … CONTINUED

We previously reported on a possible four-door 2 series sedan / gran coupe. Autocar has now joined the rumormill on such a potential 4 door model.

The report claims that BMW has plans for or is discussing a RWD sedan based off the current 1 Series platform that will target the US and China markets in particular. Autocar calls it a 1 Series, but in all likelihood it would be called a 2 Series. If you remember, only the hatchbacks and upcoming FWD models are likely to retain their 1 series badging [see likely future 1/2 series model map].

As the 3 Series has grown over the years, BMW may need such a model to take on the likes of the upcoming Audi A3 sedan and Mercedes CLA … CONTINUED

‘Insider’ Scott26 provides some rumors and ruminations on the plans and design for the upcoming BMW 2 Series coupe, convertible, and even a potential sedan.

Details are provided as to how the design of the 2 series will be similar and different than the F20 1 series hatchback on which it will be based. But the biggest info here is that BMW is currently considering a four-door 2 Series sedan-coupe to battle the upcoming Audi A3 sedan and Mercedes CLA. The BMW 2 Series sedan may take the form of a compact “Gran Coupe” which we’ve already seen the 6 series variant of and which is also expected as a 3/4-series. Read the full details/rumors inside.