BMW has rewritten the history books again – not by becoming the best selling rear-wheel drive vehicle on this planet, but by defying the company’s policy and introducing the first-ever front-wheel drive BMW in the form of the 2 Series Active Tourer. Based on the Active Tourer concept, the mini MPV is set to become BMW’s answer to its rival, the Mercedes B-Class.
A few engine options were made available, with the basic version being the 218i, which shares the same engine from the new Mini; a 1.5L three-cylinder petrol producing around 134hp. The top-of-the range version will be the 225i, powered by a 2.0L four-cylinder turbocharged engine producing around 228hp. One diesel engine option is available via the 218d, in which a 148 HP 2.0L turbodiesel engine is used. Standard manual transmissions are offered, although the 218i gets the option of a six-speed automatic transmission, while the other two were offered an eight-speed automatic transmissions. No hybrid engine has been announced at this time, and for those who are less inclined to front-wheel drive BMWs, there’ll be an all-wheel drive option available in the near future.
While BMW purists may detest having the engine propelling the front wheels, BMW claims that this makes it “the most dynamic front-wheel-drive model in its segment”, thanks to the aluminium chassis with MacPherson struts at the front and a multi-link rear arrangement. At least BMW has not considered the use of torsion beam rear suspension, for now. M-Sport suspension set-up with a 10mm-lower ride height and firmer settings are also offered for the 2 Series Active Tourer.
Despite its compact dimensions, it is built with practicality and spaciousness in mind. It’s 4341 mm long and rides on a 2670 mm wheelbase. The boot allows approx. 468 liters of space, and with the rear seats folded flat, it expands to 1500 liters of boot space. The Active Tourer made its debut on the Geneva Motor Show and is set to go on sale in the UK in Autumn with a starting price of below £23,000.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=GFzmIsXG5EM
[Source: AutoBlog & Autocar UK]
