BMW says the 2-Series Gran Tourer is the only premium 7-seat compact MPV on offer at the moment and this claim is most obvious for those inside the car.

Carbuyer’s Ginny Buckley says the build quality and the materials used in the cabin are top-notch – not to mention the generous standard equipment, which includes satellite navigation, electric parking brake and 2-zone automatic climate control.

That’s nice to know, but most people will be interested to find out how practical the 2-Series Gran Tourer is. It turns out it’s quite a competent MPV, offering plenty of space for second-row passengers and just enough for those in the third-row seats – if they are not tall adults.

The 2-Series Gran Tourer also offers a generous boot in five-seat configuration that becomes decent when all seven seats are used. The reviewer says the pick of the range is the 218d model, thanks to the engine’s smoothness, power and fuel economy. It also offers a fun experience behind the wheel, definitely more engaging than what MPV drivers are used to.

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