2021 BMW 2-Series Active Tourer Starting To Look More Like A Crossover Than A Minivan

BMW is working on a second generation of its 2-Series Active Tourer. A challenger to the likes of the Mercedes-Benz B-Class, the compact minivan with premium touches will replace the current car that has been around since 2014.

Compared to its predecessor, the new model looks more like a crossover – well, as much as an MPV (Europe’s definition of minivans that stands for ‘Multi Purpose Vehicles’) can, anyway. Notice that the greenhouse is different and that the roofline has a more angular styling towards the rear.

The front and rear ends are hidden away underneath heavy camo, but you can tell the design details will be closely related to the new 1-Series hatch. Even though the double kidney will be slightly bigger that before, it won’t be anywhere as big or controversial as the humorously nicknamed ‘double coffins’ seen on the 4-Series. The side mirrors are now mounted on the doors and the door handles have a different design.

Inside, the new 2-Series Active Tourer will benefit from a new dashboard panel, with an incorporated dual-display setup, featuring a widescreen infotainment system and digital gauges. The gear selector is a lot smaller in size and is surrounded by the usual drive mode selector buttons, while the steering wheel is also new.

Riding on an updated variant of the UKL platform that’s shared with the X1, X2 and 1-Series, among others, the AT will grow in size, as the longer 2-Series Gran Tourer should be phased off. This probably means that it will launch with standard seating for five, whereas a third-row will likely be offered as an option.

The versatile architecture will allow it to employ different petrol and diesel engines, as well as plug-in hybrids. All of the power units are expected to be shared with the new 1-Series hatchback, including 1.5-liter three-cylinder and 2.0-liter four-cylinder units in both petrol and diesel guises. While technically possible, don’t expect to see a 302hp M235i Active Tourer performance model.

We can’t be sure of anything these COVID-19 days, but the original plan is for the 2021 2-Series Active Tourer (if the name sticks) to be revealed in the second half of the year with sales to follow before the end of 2020.