Rival: Mercedes-Benz B-Class

BMW's "2 Series Active Tourer" is the first BMW-brand lineup based on a front-wheel-drive chassis, adopting the FF layout that BMW has cultivated in the "MINI". While the exterior design is unmistakably BMW, the interior also carries a familial resemblance to other BMW lineups. Aside from being front-wheel-drive, this is undeniably a BMW.

The body dimensions are 4,342mm long, 1,800mm wide, and 1,555mm high, with a wheelbase of 2,670mm. These dimensions are almost identical to those of Mercedes's preceding "B-Class". For reference, the B-Class measures 4,359mm long, 1,786mm wide, and 1,557mm high, with a wheelbase of 2,699mm in its home market.

The kidney grille sandwiched between the distinctive round twin headlights and the short front overhang are points that convey BMW's signature style, but considering it's a front-wheel-drive car, these short overhangs are quite unusual. Additionally, the side windows behind the C-pillar kick up, and L-shaped rear combination lamps are adopted. All the design cues that have traditionally made a BMW look like a BMW are incorporated.



As indicated by the roofline, which is as long as the 2,670mm wheelbase, the cabin offers a spacious and comfortable interior. The seating position is considerably higher than in a sedan, providing a unique posture. The horizontal, three-dimensional dashboard design, slightly angled towards the driver, is also unmistakably BMW.

The vehicle is equipped with a full-color head-up display that projects driving information forward, various infotainment functions familiar from BMW ConnectedDrive, and a cruise control system with traffic jam assist that automatically handles stop-and-go traffic based on camera monitoring. Furthermore, a new feature called BMW ConnectedDrive Services utilizes smartphone applications for services like concierge assistance.

The luggage space is noteworthy, expandable from a standard 468 liters to 1,510 liters. The seat arrangements are versatile, with the rear seatbacks folding in a 40:20:40 split, allowing for easy storage of long items. The rear seats can also slide to increase either legroom or luggage space as needed. A smart opener mechanism, which automatically opens and closes the tailgate with a flick of the foot, is also available to improve access to the luggage compartment.

A New Stone Cast into the Premium Compact Market

The engine lineup consists of three types: a 1.5-liter three-cylinder or a 2-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine, and a 2-liter diesel engine. All areBMW's signature TwinPower Turbo engines. The 1.5-liter three-cylinder engine produces a maximum output of 100 kW (136 ps) and a maximum torque of 220 Nm (22.4 kgm), and is installed in the "218i Active Tourer."

The 2-liter four-cylinder engine in the "225i Active Tourer" produces a maximum output of 170 kW (231 ps) and a maximum torque of 350 Nm (35.7 kgm). The 2-liter four-cylinder diesel engine in the "218d Active Tourer" produces a maximum output of 110 kW (150 ps) and a maximum torque of 330 Nm (33.6 kgm). All engines are equipped with an Auto Start Stop function and a brake energy regeneration system, and comply with Euro 6 emission standards. An "Eco Pro mode" is also available to optimize fuel efficiency, with all power units boasting low fuel consumption, low emissions, and low CO2 output.

The transmission options are a 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic for the "218i Active Tourer," and a 6-speed manual or 8-speed automatic for the "225i Active Tourer" and "218d Active Tourer." Provisional figures for fuel consumption in the ECE combined cycle show 20.4 km/liter and 115 g/km of CO2 emissions for the "218i Active Tourer" (6MT), 16.6 km/liter and 139 g/km of CO2 emissions for the "225i Active Tourer," and 24.3 km/liter and 109 g/km of CO2 emissions for the "218d Active Tourer."



The suspension features single-joint spring struts at the front and a multi-link axle at the rear. While the press release at the time of announcement suggests a slightly different design from MINI, this is an aspect that warrants confirmation upon the actual vehicle's debut.

Furthermore, the "2 Series Active Tourer" will also offer an "M Sport Package," similar to other BMW lineups, with deliveries expected to begin in November. The "M Sport Package" includes the M Aerodynamics package with sporty aerodynamic parts, an M Sport suspension for responsive handling, and the option of 17-inch or 18-inch M light alloy wheels.

The "2 Series Active Tourer," rumored to be announced in Japan soon after its domestic debut on February 14th, presents a new profile as BMW's first front-wheel-drive model. How will Japanese consumers receive it? And how will the established rivals in the B-segment react to the addition of a new option in the compact class? Looking back at the successful launch of the compact SUV "X1," it's conceivable that the "2 Series Active Tourer" will lead the premium compact segment going forward, making it a subject of great interest.