#4 BMW 2-Series Active Tourer – Compact and versatile

Say you like the small but versatile footprint of a hatchback, but want something a little larger and more premium what would you go for? The all-new BMW 2 Series Active Tourer could be your answer. The new comer in the premium compact class skilfully blends comfort and functionality of space with the trademark BMW strengths of dynamism, style, and elegance. Following on from the Coupe as the second member of the all-new BMW 2-Series range, the harmoniously proportioned Active Tourer oozes sportiness from every angle. 

 

BMW 2-Series Active Tourer

Design

The front view is dominated by the low-rise double kidney grille, which is positioned lower than the headlights. The steeply raked windscreen and clearly defined and sculpted bonnet give the all-new BMW 2-Series Active Tourer a low-slung, sporty appearance. The LED daytime driving lights cut across the top of the twin round headlights, giving them a very road-focused look. LED technology is also used in the cornering lights, which provide excellent sideways illumination both when making a turn and also when cornering. In side view, the elongated silhouette with its discreet wedge shape gives the all-new BMW 2-Series Active Tourer a distinctive, dynamic appearance. 

 

Dynamic front look

The higher roofline, large doors and long wheelbase all point to the generous spaciousness inside the car. The rear profile gives a strong sense of width, and ensures that the all-new BMW 2-Series Active Tourer’s sporty and dynamic appearance continues right round the car. The typical L-shaped BMW rear light units, optionally including wide LED tail lights, extend a long way into the side walls, creating a fluent transition between the sides and rear of the car. The boot, with its low sill and wide aperture, gives easy access to the cargo compartment. Vertical air-deflecting aero blades on either side of the rear window along with a rear spoiler add the finishing touches to the attractively modern rear-end lines. 

 

MPV like profile

Power

The all-new BMW 2-Series Active Tourer is available with a selection of three powerful, light, and fuel-efficient three and four-cylinder drive units. They are installed transversely and boast a compact design along with BMW TwinPower Turbo technology. The BMW 218i Active Tourer is the entry level model of the range. The car features a four-cylinder 1.5-litre power unit, which churns out 100 kW/136 hp. The power unit consumes 4.9-litres per 100 km. Paired with the engine is a six-speed manual transmission. The mid-spec list is dominated by the BMW 218d Active Tourer. 

 

One of the power units on offer

The four cylinder diesel unit delivers 110 kW/150 hp while mustering up a peak torque of 330 Nm. The BMW 218d Active Tourer accelerates from standstill to 100 km/h in 8.9 seconds and on to a top speed of 205 km/h. Fuel consumption is pegged at 4.1-litres per 100 km. The list topper, the BMW 225i Active Tourer, features a powerful four cylinder power unit. Output is rated at 170 kW/231 hp, while 0 to 100 km/h takes 6.8 seconds. Top speed is rated at 235 km/h. The mid spec and top of the line models are paired with a six- or eight-speed Steptronic transmission. 

 

L-Shaped rear lights

Interior

The all-new 2-Series Active Tourer combines generous interior space, comfort, first-class practicality, and typical BMW driving dynamics all in one premium compact-segment model. Together with the long wheelbase of 2,670 millimetres and raised roofline, this configuration enables the room inside to be maximised, resulting in an unprecedented feeling of spaciousness. 

Cockpit

Driver and front passenger enjoy a far higher seating position than in a saloon, which affords a commanding all-round view at the same time as making it easier to get in and out. The wealth of storage facilities and the option of a fold-flat passenger seat backrest are just two examples of the interior's impressive flexibility and cleverly devised layout. The cabin has a light and spacious feel to it, with all surfaces horizontally structured in a layered look. There is also the option of a large panoramic roof that lets light flood into the interior. 

 

Comfortable seats

The controls for the radio, air conditioning, and air vents are angled towards the driver in another unmistakable BMW design trait. The versatile luggage compartment, whose capacity can be enlarged from 468 to 1,510 litres, and the 40:20:40 split-folding rear-backrest are fitted as standard. Access to the luggage compartment couldn't be easier thanks to the large, broad, wide-opening boot. 

 

Rear look

Verdict

The all-new BMW 2-Series Active Tourer combines luxury, versatility, and performance in neat package. The car’s compact and strikingly spacious interior makes it perfectly suited to cope with the growing challenges of urban mobility.