While other models were phased out because there were no successors, BMW launched the second-generation Active Tourer in November 2021. The biggest highlight: the design is more sporty, the plug-in hybrid model can bring more range, and the E-SUV iX is used to build an electric vehicle architecture.
BMW did something that many people did unexpectedly: launched a new Active Tourer. The SUV is perhaps the heart of the brand: the car has sold more than 430,000 units since 2014 and has not been sold in China or the UNITED States. When the new model based on the front-wheel-drive architecture UKL II is launched in February 2022, there will be no more seven-seat Gran Tourer models, as only 200,000 loyal users find it attractive.
The new X1 and pure electric iX1 will also be built on the UKL II platform. In addition, the BMW 2 Series has enough space in the floor for high-voltage batteries, allowing the plug-in hybrid derivative to have a battery capacity of up to 16.3 kWh (instead of the previous 10.0 kWh) and a pure electric range of 80 km. Future tank capacity will also increase from less than 36 liters to 47 liters. However, the body has increased by only 3 centimeters in length, 2 centimeters in width and 2 centimeters in height. However, this is enough to keep BMW's users satisfied. The seats are slightly elevated for easier access to the car, the rear of the car is ample, the space expansion capacity is flexible, and the luggage compartment is very spacious (406 to 470 liters in the future, depending on the type of drive used). The electric tailgate is standard and the rear seat backrest can be angled. The new car looks more vibrant in appearance. Compared to the 1 Series, which has the same power configuration, the larger double kidney grille looks better. In some ways, it looks like a compact hatchback.
The electronic architecture is different from the 1 series, but is the same as that of the iX. The digital dashboard and infotainment system form an integrated curved large screen, which can be touched and controlled, and the sense of technology is overwhelming. In fact, steering wheel or seat heating can be used after a monthly fee (aka BMW's "on-demand subscription service"). A head-up display projects data on plexiglass instead of on the windshield. There is plenty of room for movement in the legs, and the bottom of the suspension console can be used as a storage compartment for some bits and pieces.
Instead of a traditional shift lever, the new car has a small electronic shift lever on the central hand pillow to control the latest generation of seven-speed dual-clutch transmissions. Front-drive models with 48-volt hybrid systems or four-wheel drive models with plug-in hybrid systems are available. In Boost mode, the motor brings 130 kW of power to the rear axle. Unlike the previous generation, its boost continues until the maximum speed limit. On the top-of-the-line 230e xDrive, the rear-wheel e-drive works perfectly with the turbocharged four-cylinder engine that drives the front wheels, delivering a total power of 326 horsepower and 477 Nm of peak torque, with power performance almost comparable to that of a 3.0-liter diesel engine.
The upcoming diesel model does have the 218d, but it's only powered by 150 horsepower. The entry-level model, on the other hand, features a three-cylinder petrol engine with a maximum output of 136 hp and costs 34,750 euros, which is 250 euros more expensive than the previous model with an automatic transmission and no electric tailgate.