BMW 2-series Active Tourer MPV revealed

    The new 2-series Active Tourer is BMW's first front-wheel-drive MPV.

    Published On Feb 14, 2014 04:32:00 PM

    4,117 Views

    BMW has unveiled its first front-wheel drive five-seat MPV called the 2-series Active Tourer before its official showcase at the upcoming Geneva Motor Show 2014.

    The 2-series Active Tourer adopts a transversely mounted engine and standard front-wheel drive. This layout has never been used by a fully fledged BMW series-production model before but it is set to underpin an impressive assembly of new BMW models.

    It will also be the first BMW to be offered with three-cylinder power - a compact new turbocharged 1.5-litre petrol engine, as featured in the new Mini hatchback.

    The proportions of the 2-series Active Tourer differ greatly from those of traditional rear-drive BMWs, especially around the front end, which receives a comparatively short and heavily angled bonnet. The tall glasshouse also has a distinctive cab-forward influence not usually associated with BMWs.

    At 4342mm in length, 1800mm in width and 1555mm in height, the 2-series Active Tourer is 17mm longer, 55mm wider and 135mm taller than BMW’s 1-series hatch. To put it into perspective, the Mercedes-Benz B-class, a similarly conceived front-drive MPV, is 4360m long, 1785mm wide and the same 1555mm tall.

    The new MPV is the first BMW to utilise the company’s high-strength steel entry-level platform, as first unveiled by daughter company Mini on its new third-generation hatch.

    The modular structure supports at least three wheelbases and variable track widths. This makes it suitable for a wide range of new models, including a successor to the BMW X1 and a new front-drive, entry-level 1-series saloon - both under intensive development at BMW Munich-based engineering HQ right now.

    The interior aims to provide more flexibility than traditional BMWs because of the space-saving potential of the transverse engine layout. The front seats are at roughly the same height as those in the X1 but they are more upright to free-up space behind them.

    Boot capacity for the initial standard-wheelbase model is 468 litres, rising to 1510 litres when the rear seats, which split 40:20:40, are folded down.

    Initially, the 2-series Active Tourer will have a three-pot direct-injection petrol and four-cylinder common-rail diesel engine shared with the new Mini for global markets. Further engines, including four-cylinder petrol and three-cylinder diesels, are planned from early 2015.

    Front-wheel drive and a six-speed manual gearbox will be standard, with an eight-speed auto optional. Some variants will get four-wheel drive.

    Underpinning, the 2-series Active Tourer is a predominantly aluminium chassis with MacPherson struts at the front and a multi-link rear. BMW says that this makes it “the most dynamic front-wheel-drive model in its segment, with agile and sporting characteristics”.

    Together with the standard suspension, BMW also plans to offer an M-Sport set-up with a 10mm-lower ride height and firmer settings.

    More photos here

    Copyright (c) Autocar UK. All rights reserved.

    Comments

    ×
    img

    No comments yet. Be the first to comment.

    Ask Autocar Anything about Car and Bike Buying and Maintenance Advices
    Need an expert opinion on your car and bike related queries?
    Ask Now

    Search By Car Price

    Poll of the month

    The Creta will be the third Hyundai N-Line model in India. Should more mass-market brands have sporty sub-brands?

    Yes, it's something special for enthusiasts

     

    18.49%

    Yes, but only if there is increased performance

     

    44.33%

    No, it's just a gimmick to increase the price

     

    29.25%

    It doesn't always work; just look at Tata JTP

     

    7.93%

    Total Votes : 1552
    Sign up for our newsletter

    Get all the latest updates from the automobile universe