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Meet BMW’s first front-wheel drive car, the 2 Series Active Tourer

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Author: | Updated: 14 Feb 2014 14:07

On the cards since BMW revealed the Active Tourer Concept at the big automotive shows last year, the German brand is nearing the launch of its first ever production front-wheel drive model. Now given the official name 2 Series Active Tourer, the production version is very similar to the Active Tourer Concept car of 2013.

In another milestone for the brand, the new model is also the first to take advantage of BMW’s R&D work with three-cylinder petrol engines. With an all-aluminium core and ultra-low friction, the new three-cylinder engine found in the 218i Active Tourer bears all the hallmarks of other pint-sized petrol units, such as Fiat’s TwinAir and Ford’s EcoNetic, but thanks to BMW TwinPower Turbo technology is still packs a meaty 136hp sized punch.

BMW 2 Series Active Tourer 2014

Joining the new petrol engine in the compact two engine launch line-up is a new four-cylinder diesel engine found in the 218d. The turbocharged common rail direct-injected engine has low emissions of 109g/km and delivers 150hp of power and a peak torque of 330Nm.

With compact MPV proportions the new model is set to take on the Mercedes-Benz B-Class when it arrives at UK dealers at the end of September. Measuring just slightly longer than the 1 Series, at 4.34 metres long, it comes in at 1.8 metres wide and 1.55 metres tall, the interior is surprisingly spacious, especially for rear occupants. The devil is in the detail, and the 2 Series Active Tourer combines classic BMW styling cues (namely the short overhangs) with a wedge profile and long wheelbase, this triumvirate ensures the interior is spacious enough to accommodate five. A large glass area ensures the cabin is light and airy throughout - an effect further enhanced by the optional panoramic roof and by the A-pillar triangle window, both of which also improve all-round visibility.

BMW 2 Series Active Tourer 2014 rear

The new model’s boot volume is also impressive, with 468 litres of useable space which rising to 1,510 litres with the rear seats folded flat. The rear seats themselves come in the highly practical 40:20:40 split, and come with reclining functions as well as on sliders.

A four trim line-up will be offered, joining the entry-level SE trim will be Sport, Luxury and M Sport. Not surprisingly the Sport and Luxury trims will be themed accordingly, while the M Sport gets a body styling pack and specially upholstered sports seats.

Joining the launch party in November is a higher-power 225i complete with xDrive four-wheel-drive, alongside further models 220i, 216d, 220d and 220d xDrive.

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