BMW has started testing the second-generation 2 Series Active Tourer MPV and we have the first spy photos to prove it. Scheduled to enter production in 2021, the all-new 2 Series Active Tourer will undergo significant changes. Given the current state of the market where MPVs are increasingly losing market share to crossovers and SUVs, BMW reportedly decided not to offer a direct successor to the seven-seat 2 Series Gran Tourer version.

Obviously, the growth in dimensions will result in a roomier cabin for both passengers and luggage compared to the current Active Tourer. Expect the 2021 BMW 2 Series Active Tourer to bridge the gap between its predecessor and the larger 2 Series Gran Tourer, adding a few inches both in overall length and wheelbase.


Known internally by the codename U08, the next-generation BMW 2 Series Active Tourer will be built on an optimized version of the UKL front-wheel-drive platform and will offer gasoline, diesel, and plug-in hybrid powertrains. The PHEV will feature a 48-volt electrical system, a more powerful 109 PS electric motor, and an electrified rear axle thus offering e-AWD.

The 2 Series Active Tourer could gain an M Performance variant for the first time but a decision regarding that is not confirmed yet. Still, if given the green light, the M235i Active Tourer could get the same powertrain from the X2 M35i xDrive, namely a 306 PS 2.0-liter turbo-four and standard all-wheel-drive. In addition, BMW is reportedly planning to offer a Getrag eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission as an option for the first time.


On the tech front, the 2021 BMW 2 Series Active Tourer will offer the latest infotainment and safety systems with highlights expected to include LED and OLED lights, a new display technology based on micro-optics and holography, augmented reality head-up display, gesture control, and additional touch-sensitive input functions, among other things.

It may be too early to talk about the design but judging from these spy shots the next-generation 2 Series Active Tourer seems to adopt an SUV-like stance with more athletic proportions and a higher ride height. We can also spot a massive front grille that appears to be the way to go for future BMW models.