Overview

You won’t find the initialism MPV (Multi-Purpose Vehicle) in any of BMW’s literature, on its website, or on the lips of its sales staff. The German firm really is keen to disassociate its BMW 2 Series Active Tourer from that Vauxhall Zafira parked outside of your local kebab shop.

But rest assured, the 2 Series Active Tourer is a super sensible people hauler suitable for multiple purposes. There’s loads of room for things and passengers, a strong engine lineup and it’s even pretty fun to drive. Unlike some companies, BMW isn’t shying away from diesel either, with an oil-burner joining a pair of petrol engines and plug-in hybrid power.

The Active Tourer’s biggest foe is the similarly sized Mercedes B-Class, while other MPVs such as the Volkswagen Multivan will also crop up on shopping lists. Small and premium SUVs, such as the Audi Q2 and Mercedes GLA are also vying for drivers’ monthly payments.

If you’re a current BMW driver who’s looking for something that’s easy to get in and out of or that will easily swallow child seats in the rear, the 2 Series Active Tourer is a rational option. If you’d prefer something similarly flexible and spacious but can’t get over the MPV image, try the closely related BMW X1.

Over the next few pages we’ll be thoroughly reviewing all aspects of the BMW 2 Series Active Tourer and rating them in our verdict. Our scores will take into account the driving experience, how pleasant the interior is, the practicality on offer and what it’ll cost you to run.