The BMW 2 Series Active Tourer—BMW’s First Front-Wheel Drive Car
At a Glance:
World Premiere: Geneva International Motor Show, Geneva, Switzerland
Model: BMW 2 Series Active Tourer
Variations: 218i, 225i, 218d
Drive configuration: Front-wheel drive (xDrive coming in late autumn)
Length/width/height (inches): 170.9/70.9/61.2
Cargo capacity: 16.52 to 53.32 cubic feet
Engine types/hp/fuel mileage:
218i: 3-cylinder gasoline, 136 hp, 38.6/56.0/48.0 mpg*
225i: 4-cylinder gasoline, 231 hp, 30.9/47.0/39.2 mpg*
218d: 4-cylinder diesel, 150 hp, 47.4/65.3/57.4 mpg*
Performance:
218i: 0–60 mph – not available; top speed – not available
225i: 0–60 mph – 6.8 sec; top speed – 146 mph
218d: 0–60 mph – 8.9; top speed –127 mph
Is it coming to the United States? Earllier this year the hybrid version of the 2 Series Active Tourer was reported to be coming to the U.S. early in 2015. No announcement has been made concerning the 218i, 225i, and 218d Active Tourer models coming to the U.S.
The BMW 2 Series Active Tourer represents BMW’s expansion into a new model segment. This newcomer in the premium compact class skillfully blends comfort and functionality of space with the expected BMW strengths of handling, style, and elegance. As the second member of the new BMW 2 Series range following the 2 Series Coupe, the beautifully proportioned Active Tourer oozes sportiness. At just 170.9 inches long, 70.9 wide, and 61.2 inches high, it combines compact dimensions on the outside with a striking spaciousness on the inside, making it perfectly suited to the growing challenges of urban mobility.
New turbocharged engines with three and four cylinders, a comprehensive package of BMW EfficientDynamics measures, and the extensive connectivity provided by BMW ConnectedDrive are all formative elements in a driving experience that concentrates on sporty performance and outstanding efficiency.
Handling, performance, and functionality brought together in classic BMW style.
Special design concepts are needed to achieve a high level of versatility and functionality in the premium compact class. BMW has therefore chosen a sophisticated front-wheel-drive system for the 2 Series Active Tourer that will deliver the degree of driver engagement expected of the marque. Together with the long wheelbase (65.75 inches) and raised roofline, this configuration maximizes the inside space resulting in an unprecedented feeling of spaciousness. Driver and front passenger enjoy a far higher seating position than in a sedan, which affords a commanding 360-degree view, while at the same time making it easier to get in and out. The extensive 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, with all surfaces horizontally structured in a layered look. Another option is a large, panoramic roof that lets light flood into the interior. The brand identity with its overriding sense of dynamism is clearly present in the BMW 2 Series Active Tourer. It shines through in such trademark features as the slightly forward-slanting BMW kidney grille flanked by the distinctive twin circular headlights. The short front overhang is highly unusual for a front-wheel-drive car, and is just as much a classic BMW styling cue as the short overhang at the rear, the long wheelbase, the Hofmeister kink in the rear side windows, and the L-shaped rear lights. Crisp contours and an eye-catching swage line at the sides give added impact to the wheel arches, and imply forward thrust even when stationary. Moving inside, the controls for the audio and the heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning (HVAC) systems are angled towards the driver in another unmistakable BMW design trait.
Maximum versatility and functionality.
The versatile luggage compartment, whose capacity can be enlarged from 16.52 to 53.32 cubic feet, and the standard 40:20:40 split-folding rear backrest demonstrate this model’s excellent everyday practicality. A sliding rear seat further enhances flexibility by allowing either knee room or luggage space to be increased as required. One particularly smart touch is the foldable trunk floor that conceals a storage compartment with a handy multifunction tray. The rear backrest can be adjusted to offer either added comfort for the three rear seats or extra luggage space. Access to the luggage compartment couldn't be easier thanks to the large, broad, wide-opening tailgate, which can be even more convenient with the optional pushbutton automatic opening and closing or the Smart Opener function for supreme ease of operation with a quick flick of the foot.
Latest-generation engines running on three or four cylinders.
The new BMW 2 Series Active Tourer is being launched with a choice of three powerful, light, and fuel-efficient three and four-cylinder drive units that form part of a new generation of engines. They are installed transversely and boast a compact design along with BMW TwinPower Turbo technology, and complying with the EU6 emissions standard.
The new three-cylinder gasoline unit stands out for its exceptional efficiency and great performance abilities. This cutting-edge powerplant is receiving its premiere in a BMW core brand model—the BMW 218i Active Tourer (fuel consumption city/highway/combined: 38.6/56.0/48.0 mpg)* with a six-speed manual gearbox. The engine has a displacement of 1.5 liters, generates 136 hp, and excels with its spontaneous throttle response, hearty appetite for revs, and high pulling power. The design of three-cylinder engines means they are not subject to first and second-order inertia forces, while the balancer shaft included on the BMW unit ensures that it operates even more smoothly over the entire rev range.
Topping the bill at market launch is the BMW 225i Active Tourer (fuel consumption city/highway/combined: 30.9/47.0/39.2 mpg)*. With an output of 231 hp, a 0 to 60 time of 6.8 seconds and a top speed of 146 mph, the model’s four-cylinder engine raises the bar for dynamic performance in its class.
Hard at work under the hood of the BMW 218d Active Tourer (fuel consumption city/highway/combined: 47.4/65.3/57.4 mpg)* is a four-cylinder diesel engine. A member of the same new engine family as its two gasoline counterparts, it delivers 150 hp while mustering up a peak torque of 243 pound-feet. This powerplant reaffirms the exceptionally dynamic performance qualities of BMW diesel engines, propelling the BMW 218d Active Tourer from standstill to 60 mph in 8.9 seconds* and on to a top speed of 127 mph)*.
The BMW among front-wheel-drive cars.
Like all BMW models, the new BMW 2 Series Active Tourer makes its mark with great driving dynamics and the sort of driving experience the brand is renowned for. The newly developed chassis, comprising a single-joint spring strut axle at the front and a multi-link rear axle, combines agility and directional precision with excellent handling stability and suspension comfort. The front drive axle in the new BMW 2 Series Active Tourer has undergone extensive fine-tuning, ensuring that it gives the driver optimum driving dynamics and wonderfully precise steering feedback. The electromechanical steering and the system’s functional arrangement combine to produce a driving sensation that is devoid of interfering torque steer.
The intelligent use of high-tensile and ultra-high-tensile multiphase steels makes a decisive contribution to safety in the BMW 2 Series Active Tourer, while also helping to keep the vehicle’s weight down. Apart from being a crucial factor in the model’s exceptional driving dynamics, this lightweight engineering is one of many BMW EfficientDynamics technology elements. Others include the Auto Start Stop function, Brake Energy Regeneration, Optimum Gearshift Indicator, on-demand operation of ancillary units, and the integral Air Curtain, which uses two vertical air inlets in the front bumper to direct the airstream along the front wheels.
M Sport package for maximum presence.
In addition to the standard trim, two other equipment lines allow owners to put their individual slant on the interior and exterior. The Sport Line places the emphasis on the dynamic side, while the Luxury Line is all about elegance and exclusiveness. The M Sport package that will be available starting in November opens up even greater possibilities for customization. An M Aerodynamics package, M Sport suspension, and 17- or 18-inch M light-alloy wheels on the outside are complemented by an M leather steering wheel and specially upholstered sports seats to maximize the on-road presence of the BMW 2 Series Active Tourer. The range will be extended from late autumn to include variants equipped with the xDrive intelligent all-wheel-drive system.
High degree of connectivity for enhanced safety and comfort.
Standards of safety and comfort aboard the BMW 2 Series Active Tourer are boosted by the assistance systems and various infotainment features that are collectively known as BMW ConnectedDrive. For example, the Traffic Jam Assistant or the camera-based cruise control system with Stop & Go function assist with accelerating and braking (longitudinal guidance) as well as steering (lateral guidance with the Traffic Jam Assistant), at the same time relieving the driver of the monotonous tasks such as those encountered when driving in a line of traffic on the highway or in heavy city traffic.
BMW ConnectedDrive Services and Apps bring smartphone applications into the vehicle and allow the addition of innovative features like the Concierge Service or Real Time Traffic Information. These can also be booked at a later date and, in many cases, for flexible periods of time. In this way, the functionality of the BMW 2 Series Active Tourer can be vastly enhanced and updated by the owner at any time.
The BMW 2 Series Active Tourer is the first model in the premium compact class to be made available with a Head-Up Display, which projects all relevant driving information into the driver’s field of vision in full color. Instead of being displayed on the windshield itself, the information is shown on a screen that extends out between the steering wheel and windshield. This enables drivers to view all key information without having to divert their attention from the road.
* Figures are provisional and have not yet been officially confirmed.
—Scott Blazey
