Verdict: Spacious, frugal, cheap to run
What’s hot?
- It might be an MPV, but with a 0-62mph time of 8.6secs and a top speed of 129mph, the 2i8d offers the kind of sprightly performance you would expect from the BMW brand.
- Despite this performance, the Efficient Dynamics tweaks equal a claimed combined consumption of just 68mpg with CO2 emissions of 109g/km.
- Buyers will be pleased to know that the 218 SE Active Tourer automatic falls into the 17% company car tax band for 2014/15.
- The eight-speed automatic gearbox is very rapid both up and down the gears.
- Even in Sport mode, the 2-Series’ ride is impressively compliant.
- The 2-Series Active Tourer has well-weighted, sporty-feeling steering.
- The tall driving position and thin A-pillars equal great forward visibility in the Active Tourer.
- The driver-focussed dashboard is attractive with its aluminium inlays and is made of high quality materials.
- Other nice touches in the 2-Series interior include plenty of cupholders and practical stowage areas, perfect for family use.
- An automatic tailgate is standard on all 2-Series Active Tourer models and when it’s opened there’s 468 litres of practical space. This can be increased to 1,510 litres by lowering the power rear seats.
- The wash wipe is cleverly hidden under the rear spoiler, giving the 2-Series Active Tourer a much cleaner look.
What’s not?
- BMW has tried to add some dynamic styling cues to a generic MPV shape and although tidy, it’s not as distinctive as you’d expect from a BMW. We found the wind noise round the mirrors to be particularly tiring too.
- Despite the fuel economy and performance, the 218d’s three-cylinder diesel engine feels a bit gruff both at idle and at speed.
- The 218d Active Tourer certainly doesn’t feel like the ‘ulitimate driving machine’ when you turn into a corner. There, you’ll notice the excess body roll which is a result of the taller body.
- The Active Tourer’s conventional bench rear seat isn’t as practical as if there were three individual rear seats.
