The new BMW 2 Series Active Tourer now available in South Africa.

The launch of the BMW 2 Series Active Tourer sees BMW bringing the functionality of space and comfort, combined with hallmark BMW dynamics, style and elegance, to the premium compact class. Offering generous levels of space within impressively compact dimensions (length: 4,342 millimetres, width: 1,800 millimetres, height: 1,555 millimetres), the BMW 2 Series Active Tourer represents the perfect response to increasingly exacting mobility requirements.

New turbocharged engines with three and four cylinders, a comprehensive package of BMW EfficientDynamics measures and the extensive connectivity provided by BMW ConnectedDrive ensure a driving experience defined by sporting ability and exemplary efficiency.

Dynamism and functionality of space brought together in classic BMW fashion.
Conscious of the need to meet the high level of spaciousness, variability and functionality demanded in the premium compact class, BMW has given the 2 Series Active Tourer a sophisticated front-wheel-drive system capable of delivering the degree of driver engagement expected of the brand’s models. Together with the long wheelbase of 2,670 millimetres and raised roofline, this configuration enables the room inside to be maximised, 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 all-round view at the same time as making it easier to get in and out. The wealth 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 to it, with all surfaces horizontally structured in a layered look. There is also the option of 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 too. It shines through in trademark features such as the slightly forward-slanting BMW kidney grille at the front end flanked by the distinctive twin circular headlights. The short front overhang in particular 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 inject the BMW 2 Series Active Tourer with forward thrust even when stationary. Moving inside, the controls for the radio, air conditioning and air vents 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 468 to 1,510 litres, and the 40:20:40 split-folding rear backrest fitted as standard exemplify this model’s excellent everyday practicality. Flexibility is further enhanced by a sliding rear seat which allows legroom in the rear or the load compartment capacity to be increased as required. 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. This also comes as standard with a pushbutton automatic opening and closing or – for supreme ease – optional touchless gesture control.

Latest-generation engines running on three or four cylinders.
The new BMW 2 Series Active Tourer is being launched with a choice of powerful, light and fuel-efficient three-cylinder (218i) and four-cylinder drive units (220i, 220d & 225i) that form part of a new generation of engines. They are installed transversely and boast a compact design along with BMW TwinPower Turbo technology.

The new three-cylinder petrol unit stands out for its exceptional efficiency and great performance abilities. This cutting-edge powerplant is receiving its premiere in a model from the BMW core brand in the guise of the BMW 218i Active Tourer (fuel consumption combined: 5.1100 km; CO2 emissions combined: 118 g/km) with six-speed manual gearbox.

The engine has a displacement of 1.5 litres, generates 100 kW 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 combined: 5.9 l/100 km; CO2 emissions combined: 138g/km)* with a standard-fitted eight-speed Steptronic gearbox. With an output of 170 kW, a time of 6.6 seconds for the 0 to 100 km/h dash and a top speed of 240 km/h, the model’s four-cylinder engine raises the bar for dynamic performance in its class.

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 endows the car with 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 multi-phase steels makes a decisive contribution to safety standards 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 just one among many BMW EfficientDynamics technology elements. These also 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.

Four model variants designed to meet individual customer requirements.
In addition to the standard model, BMW also offers the BMW 2 Series Active Tourer in four other variants with an interior, exterior and specification tailored even more closely to customer requirements. Standard equipment for the BMW 2 Series Active Tourer already comprises the Radio Professional including a hands-free telephone facility with Bluetooth interface, the BMW iDrive control system with controller on the centre console and 6.5-inch Control Display, a rain sensor and automatic headlight activation, a sports leather steering wheel, the Intelligent Emergency Call system, Park Distance Control at the rear, front foglamps, cruise control with braking function and a multifunction steering wheel.

The Sport Line model highlights the dynamic character of the BMW 2 Series Active Tourer with special alloy wheels and sports seats. The high-gloss black kidney grille bars, model-specific air intakes and the accent strip on the rear apron underline the car’s presence. And in keeping with the look, the exhaust tailpipe comes in an electroplated black chrome finish.

The Luxury Line model majors on elegance and exclusivity, as underlined by subtle chrome applications for the exterior before you climb aboard and the exquisite leather trim once inside.

The BMW 2 Series Active Tourer will also be available with the M Sport specification. With its M aerodynamics package, High-gloss Shadow Line trim, M Sport suspension, 18-inch M light-alloy wheels, M leather steering wheel and sports seats with bespoke upholstery, the M Sport model of the BMW 2 Series Active Tourer displays unbeatable road presence.

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.

BMW ConnectedDrive Services & Apps bring smartphone applications into the vehicle and allow innovative features like the Concierge Service or Real Time Traffic Information to be added. These can also be booked at a later date once the BMW ConnectedDrive Store has been launched in South Africa 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 colour. Instead of being displayed on the windscreen itself, the information is shown on a screen that extends out between the steering wheel and windscreen. This enables drivers to view all key information without having to divert their attention from the road.

For more information, see attached full press kit.