BMW 2 Series Active Tourer MPV - Interior & comfort (2014-2021)
The BMW 2 Series Active Tourer has the same upmarket interior as other BMWs
One of the BMW 2 Series Active Tourer's main selling points is its upmarket interior – putting it head and shoulders above the competition if you value a luxury feel and lots of high-quality materials.
As this is a BMW, all models drive well and feel comfortable. The steering is precise and well weighted, but everything tightens up when you select Sport mode, making the steering feel artificially heavy. If you want a hushed driving experience, then make sure you choose one of the petrol engines, as the diesels can be quite noisy, while the large wing mirrors of every model do little to suppress wind noise at high speeds.
BMW 2 Series Active Tourer dashboard
The mild update rolled out across the 2 Series Active Tourer range in 2018 was no more in-depth inside than out. 'Before and after' differences amount to little more than a new dash-mounted touchscreen and redesigned instruments, as well as a revamped upholstery lineup. The basics went largely untouched, but perhaps very little work was needed.
In fact, anyone familiar with recent BMWs will find the Active Tourer's dashboard familiar, with all the controls logically laid-out and easy to use. The dashboard is finished in some very solid materials, with wood effect being applied to the higher-spec models for a touch of extra glamour. The only difference that the 225xe plug-in hybrid has over standard models is an extra button for the drive modes giving you the option to run on battery power alone.
Equipment
The starting price for the BMW 2 Series Active Tourer is lower than an equivalent Mercedes B-Class, and it has a long list of standard equipment that includes separate climate-control zones for the driver and passenger.
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All models get DAB digital radio and satellite navigation as standard, accessed via BMW's intuitive iDrive system. This allows touch inputs through the touchscreen, or via a console-mounted physical controller if you prefer. There's Apple CarPlay connectivity for iPhone users, while a smartphone app lets you check the car's location and things like how much fuel is left, even enabling you to flash the lights in a car park or lock and unlock the doors.
SE trim is the entry-level version, while Sport models get sports seats, and the Luxury trim features some unique interior materials, a different alloy wheel design and extra chrome. The M Sport has the usual ‘M’ badges and sports bodykit, as well as lower suspension, larger alloy wheels and some racy detailing inside. The 225xe is only available in Luxury and Sport trim levels but, oddly, goes without front fog lights or heated mirrors.
Options
Like all BMW models, the Active Tourer has a positively bewildering options list. The eight-speed automatic gearbox is a desirable option at around £1,500, plus you can specify equipment like adaptive LED headlights and heated electric seats, as well as accessories such as a ski bag, bike rack and luggage net. Most of the equipment you really need is already fitted to the Active Tourer, so there’s no great need to push up the already hefty list prices by adding more.
