Introducing the BMW 2 Series Active Tourer, a 5-door front-drive compact vehicle, the first-ever from the German automaker. A front-wheel drive BMW? Well, Benz did it with the CLA and BMW themselves have seen tons of success in MINI. The 2 Series Active Tourer still looks to deliver the luxurious feel we’ve come to expect from BMW, all in a compact package that will surely be embraced by the European market. It’s 170.9 inches long and rides on a 105.1-inch wheelbase, though you wouldn’t think it with its high roof and foldable rear seats.
The exterior’s near identical to the two concepts that were previously showcased but it’s definitely been cleaned up a bit to make it market ready. Look for BMW’s traditional dual circular headlights up front and the forward-slanting BMW kidney grilled. The Hofmeister kink in the rear side windows and the L-shaped rear lights all deliver in-line with BMW’s design ethos. Jump inside and you’ll notice the controls for the radio, air conditioning and air vents are angled towards the driver in another unmistakable BMW design trait. Features include a sliding rear seat, adjustable rear backrests, fold-flat backrests and optional goodies like an automatic tailgate and panoramic sunroof to let the sun shine in.
In terms of performance, the BMW 2 Series Active Tourer is being launched with a choice of three different engine setups that form part of a new generation of engines. They’re installed transversely and boast a compact design along with BMW TwinPower Turbo technology. Their new 136-hp three-cylinder engine will premiere in the BMW 218i Active Tourer while the BMW 225i Active Tourer dishes out 231 hp from its four-cylinder engine. Oh, and we can’t forget the diesel-powered BMW 218d Active Tourer, which pushes 150 horses and runs nearly 70 miles to the gallon (city/highway combined).
The BMW 2 Series Active Tourer will have plenty of other options like an M Sport Package and it will be the first model in the premium compact class to be made available with a Head-Up Display. Other features include a camera-based Cruise Control with Stop & Go function, Traffic Jam Assist, lane departure warning, as well as BMW’s ConnectedDrive Services & Apps.
Europe will be getting the BMW 2 Series Active Tourer later this year while nothing has been finalized on the vehicle making its way state-side.
David
Seems BMW are cashing in on the success of the Mercedes-Benz B-Class. Incredibly similar.