BMW’s 1-Series Coupe and Convertible are on their way out, soon to be replaced by the stylish and sexy 2-Series, which bowed at the 2014 Detroit Auto Show this week. Fans are already dubbing the car the spiritual successor to the BMW 2002 of the 1960s and ‘70s, and in M235i trim we could certainly see the car proving to be a collectible in years to come.

The 2-Series will be a late 2014 model year arrival and its pricing will start at $33,025, including a $925 destination charge, which is almost the same as you’d pay for an entry-level 3-Series. Only two models will be available at launch: a base 228i and sporty M235i. The latter marks the arrival of BMW’s M Performance line of cars here in the U.S. and will set you back at least $44,025, once again including a $925 destination charge.

The 228i is powered by BMW’s familiar turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder, which in the 2-Series maintains its 240-horsepower and 258-pound-feet of torque rating. The M235i is powered by a turbocharged 3.0-liter straight-six, whose output registers at 322 horsepower and 332 pound-feet of torque.

A six-speed manual is standard while an eight-speed automatic is offered as an option.

Note, the 2-Series family is set to grow in the very near future. Look for a 2-Series Convertible to join the lineup later in 2014 and further down the track we may even see the introduction of a new range of front-wheel-drive BMWs here in the U.S. The automaker is yet to formally announce the vehicles, but an undisguised version was recently spotted wearing a 225i badge. A U.S. launch is expected, although we’re unlikely to see the cars in local showrooms until sometime in 2015.

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