BMW has revealed its new 2 Series Active Tourer as the brand’s sole MPV enters its second generation.
Since its introduction in 2014, BMW has sold more than 430,000 examples of the Active Tourer, with the model being key to attract new customers to the brand – 80 per cent sold go to first-time BMW customers, the firm says.
Significant improvements are promised across the board, not least on the interior, which is a huge step up compared to its predecessor. Using the brand’s ‘Curved Display’ that merges a large digital dial display and touchscreen into one piece of glass, it’s the first outing for the feature in a compact BMW, following its appearance in the brand’s high-end iX and i4 electric models.
At launch, two new petrol engines and one diesel are available. The new 220i and 223i engines gain a 48-volt mild-hybrid system, while a small 19bhp electric motor adds extra performance, taking power up to 168bhp on the 1.5-litre 220i and 215bhp with the 2.0-litre 223i. The 148bhp 2.0-litre 218d diesel will appeal to those covering plenty of miles, with BMW claiming up to 58.9mpg.
A pair of plug-in hybrids will also be introduced later next year, with both packing all-wheel-drive as standard. A 242bhp 225e xDrive will be available alongside a powerful 322bhp 230e xDrive, with each being able to charge at a quicker rate than the previous 2 Series hybrid, as well as further on electricity – BMW claims up to 50 miles of EV-only driving is possible from a charge.
As for styling, the Active Tourer gets BMW’s latest bold front-end design, incorporating a large grille as standard along with full LED headlights. The new car is slightly longer, wider and taller than its predecessor too, which BMW says allows for noticeably improved space for both front- and rear-seat occupants. Sliding rear seats are also fitted as standard, while individually folding and angled rear seats improve usability too.
Though the 2 Series Active Tourer might sit in a class where driving pleasure isn’t usually a priority, BMW promises a fun driving experience, with the model said to offer a sharper turn-in to corners and optimised steering wheel.
BMW also says the Active Tourer is available with the widest choice of driver assistance systems of any of its compact models, including active cruise control, lane centring and emergency lane assistant.
Other tech on offer include an augmented reality satellite navigation system that can relay ‘live’ directions onto the mapping, as well as a feature that lets you unlock and start the car using your iPhone.
The 2 Series Active Tourer will be available in three trim levels – Sport, Luxury and M Sport, with orders now open. Prices start from £30,265, with first UK deliveries expected in March 2022.
