BMW 2 Series Actively Engaged Touring Vehicle – the minivan for the sport enthusiast
The initial BMW 2 Series Active Tourers, which have been on the roads for a decade, now offer a money-saving opportunity due to their age. With used models available for less than €7,000, this could be a smart investment, considering the 2024 TÜV Report marks it as a solid choice. However, age-related flaws may emerge over time.
Quality
As the first BMW built on a front-wheel-drive platform, the 2 Series Active Tourer has few issues as a budget used car, with fewer defects than average in its category during MOT testing. Nevertheless, the defect rate escalates above the segment average from the fourth to fifth year, as shown in TÜV Report analysis. This could be due to the vehicles regularly failing the exhaust gas test (AU) compared to others. While the brakes on seven-year-old models remain in good condition, steering joint defects and rattling panoramic roofs become more frequent from this age onward. Online forums also report confusing navigation instructions and rust on door panels.
Body and Interior
Introduced in 2014, the 2 Series Active Tourer, despite its age, retains an appealing look for a van, especially in its smaller variant. Offering a generous interior, the tourer is highly versatile and has ample segment-specific space. Despite the larger driveshaft tunnel, the space behind the front seats is adaptable, offering a boot capacity expandable to 1455 liters. This extends to the "Gran Tourer" variant, whose boot can accommodate 1905 liters, given its additional 18 centimeters of length.
Engines and Drivetrain
Equipped on a front-wheel-drive platform with optional all-wheel-drive capabilities, the 2 Series van features a modest 1.5-liter three-cylinder petrol engine (80 kW/109 PS), which falls short of the van's dynamic and driving promises. A more powerful 103 kW/140 PS variant offers better performance. Above that, two 2.0-liter four-cylinder engines with 141 kW/192 PS and 170 kW/231 PS make the 2 Series the go-to choice for dynamic family cars. Even among diesels, BMW doesn't compromise on power, offering 2.0-liter four-cylinder engines with 110 kW/150 PS and 140 kW/190 PS, as well as a 1.5-liter three-cylinder with 85 kW/116 PS for this class. Introduced in 2018, a plug-in hybrid variant with a 165 kW/224 PS 1.5-liter three-cylinder engine and over 50 km of electric range is now available for less than €15,000 used. BMW offers various transmission options, with automatic versions for the more powerful models, while weaker variants (216i and 218i, 214d, 216d, and 218d) opt for manual transmissions.
BMW offers an extensive range of equipment options for the 2 Series Active Tourer. Standard features include air conditioning, hands-free calling, and alloy wheels (except for the two base engine models). Various pre-configured lines, such as "Advantage" and "Luxury Line," emphasize technology, styling, or luxury amenities, while "Sport Line" and "M Sport" focus on dynamic exterior styling and sports seats. Optional extras, such as an electric tailgate, LED headlights, adaptive suspension, or a roof rail, may be added to vehicles.
Safety features include six airbags across all variants, with optional driver assistance systems, including lane-keeping and emergency braking. The Euro NCAP crash test in 2014 awarded the car five out of five stars.
Conclusion
The 2 Series Tourer not only exudes sportiness and luxuriousness surpassing average family vans but also showcases the technical finesse expected in premium vehicles. While older models from 2014 typically fetch five-figure prices, the most affordable examples now start at less than 7,000 euros. Over 2,500 units are currently listed on Mobile.de.
Used BMW 2 Series Active Tourers, with their robust engines and extensive equipment options, can be an excellent choice for budget-conscious buyers seeking a solid and economical option. With their age, these vehicles might require regular maintenance to address age-related issues like faulty exhaust gas tests, steering joint defects, or rattling panoramic roofs. However, with proper care, the used 2 Series Active Tourers can provide reliable and enjoyable driving experiences, especially considering their appealing appearance and generous interior space.
