BMW has revealed its new small saloon car – the 2 Series Gran Coupe – which is gunning for the Audi A3 saloon and Mercedes CLA.

The model, which sits above the 1 Series hatchback but below the larger 3 Series, is a four-door ‘coupe’, and the car’s design features a sloping roofline, frameless doors and sharp styling. Inside, the 2 Series Gran Coupe has a similar cabin to that of the new 1 Series, so it includes a digital instrument display and an optional 10.25 touchscreen.

The range-topping version is named the M235i xDrive. Under the bonnet, it houses BMW’s most powerful four-cylinder engine. The 2.0-litre unit produces 302bhp and 400Nm of torque and, with all-wheel-drive, it allows for a 0-60mph time of 4.7 seconds.

Speaking of engines, the Gran Coupe will be available from launch with a choice of three – one diesel and two petrols. Apart from the 302bhp 2.0-litre petrol mentioned before, buyers can also spec their car with either an entry-level 1.5-litre petrol or an economical 2.0-litre diesel.

There are also three trim levels on offer – Sport, M Sport and M Performance, the latter of which is only available in hot M235i form. Sport is the most basic trim, and comes with sport seats and LED headlights, for example, while M Sport gets racier details such as a sportier bodykit, leather sports seats and an M Sport leather steering wheel.

Choose the M Performance M235i xDrive and the model’s treated to larger alloy wheels and an Alcantara interior.

The new BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe is priced from £25,815. First customer deliveries are set for March 2020.