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.

From the same Dutch BMW dealer presentation which yielded the 381hp tri-turbo diesel M550d rumor, comes the report that a “M135i” F20 1 series hatchback is coming next summer. Those in attendance were reportedly told about a M135i featuring 320hp and powered by the N55 inline 6 engine.

As with any rumor, it’s always just speculation until officially published by BMW. But, there may be merit to this rumor. We spotted what appears to be an M Sport 135i F20 some months ago (seen HERE), so we wouldn’t be surprised if BMW actually went with the “M135i” moniker for that car if they in fact also went with the “M550d” rumor for the upcoming tri-turbo diesel F10.

Also, at the F30 press drives last week, BMW told us … CONTINUED

A new BMW 2 series coupe render has been posted, courtesy of Autoexpress. Although this render may give us an idea as to the general shape, size, and proportions, the BMW 2-series coupe is expected to have a significantly different look (particularly the front end) than the F20 1-series hatchback upon which this render is clearly based.

There will be no next generation 1-series coupe and convertible, as they will take on the 2-series badge instead. The 2 series coupe is expected as early as sometime in 2013.

One of the most anticipated BMW models in the next few years will include the BMW 2-series coupe/convertible (which will replace the 1-series coupe/convertible). With the 1M coupe receiving overwhelming praise, its successor, the BMW M2 (based off 2 series coupe) will surely receive even more attention.

Here’s the latest of what we’ve recently learned from a trusty source regarding the upcoming M2 and 2-series:

- The M2 has not yet officially been approved for production (and may not be officially approved until the 2-series commences production)
- Intent is to make the M2 based primarily on future M3 parts (a la 1M coupe and current M3)
- Standard 2-series lineup as a whole is being designed specifically to leave open the possibility of fitting some F30/F32 M3 parts (i.e. … CONTINUED

Here’s a render of the 2-series coupe, which is what the next generation 1-series coupe and convertible will purportedly be badged as, while the hatchback 1-series and all new FWD 1-series models will retain the 1-series designation. More info via link inside. BMW 2 series coupe.

Insider SCOTT26 previews the next generation of 1-series, 2-series, M2, and the long rumored Z2 compact roadster. The 1-series coupe and convertible will receive new 2-series badging, while the hatchback and GT models and retain their 1-series designations. An M2 (successor to current 1M coupe) and a Z2 compact roadster is also in the pipeline. Full rundown inside. BMW 2 series coupe

According to a new report from Autobild, BMW is considering reordering the nomenclature of their model lineup for consistency. If this happens, all sedan, wagons, and GT’s will get odd numbers. All coupes, convertibles and Gran Coupe’s get even numbers.

In other words, the successors of the E92 3-series coupe would become the 4-series coupe (F32), the E93 3-series convertible a 4-series convertible (F33). BMW had similar plans for the current generation E92 and E93 3-series but got cold feet for several reasons. Now the successful introduction of Audi A5 and Mercedes-Benz E-Class Coupe is reportedly making BMW reconsider the introduction of a 4-series again, says Autobild. If this pans out, this may be the next generation 3-series and 4-series models lineup. See inside. BMW 2 series … CONTINUED

Car and Driver speculates that BMW may begin using the 2-series moniker as soon as the front wheel drive 1-series arrives. C&D points to the fact that several 2-series trademarks were registered just this month and an M2 trademark back in June. They further speculate that the future FWD BMWs will take on the 1-series name, while the RWD entry level coupes and convertibles will be badged the 2-series.