BMW has revealed its new 2 Series Active Tourer people carrier, which packs more technology and ‘significant advances in all key areas’.
Introduced in 2014 as BMW’s first ‘MPV’, it will also be remembered as the firm’s very first front-wheel-drive car. Despite a declining MPV market, BMW has still sold more than 430,000 units globally, with the model being key to attracting new customers – 80 per cent of Active Tourers are said to be bought by people that have never owned a BMW.
The German firm promises big improvements with this new car, with the Active Tourer getting styling inspired by the brand’s larger models – including sharp LED headlights and a larger version of BMW’s ‘kidney grille’. Slimmer pillars are said to offer greater visibility too, while the model grows marginally in size, which BMW says allows for a ‘noticeable increase’ in both rows of seats.
Inside, the Active Tourer gains cues from BMW’s flagship iX, gaining a new curved screen that aims to perfectly angle at the driver, while using the firm’s latest ‘Operating System 8’ software for improved connectivity and responsiveness.
The 2 Series Active Tourer gets a new range of engines, which all come with a new version of BMW’s seven-speed Steptronic automatic gearbox. Petrol options consist of the 168bhp 1.5-litre 220i and 215bhp 2.0-litre 223i, both of which come with a new mild-hybrid system that packs a 19bhp electric motor for extra zip. A 148bhp 218d diesel model is also available.
These will be accompanied by a pair of plug-in hybrids in the middle of next year – the 225e and 230e, both of which come with xDrive all-wheel-drive. The combination of petrol-electric delivers 242bhp and 322bhp respectively, while BMW has also increased the car’s battery size, with an electric range of up to 50 miles now promised. A larger on-board charger also speeds up charging times.
BMW is promising a more involving driving experience than before – especially from M Sport models that feature a sportier suspension setup, while a reworked braking system is said to offer ‘outstanding stopping power unique in its segment’.
A range of new tech has also been introduced, including a ‘Digital Key’ that lets customers unlock the car using their iPhone and a new overhead interior camera that can take snapshots from a road trip or long journey.
Prices for the new 2 Series Active Tourer are set to start from £30,265, with the model now available to order. First deliveries are expected in March 2022.
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