BMW
continues to roll out camo-cladded prototypes of its next 2-Series minivan with
our spy photographers nabbing the latest example undergoing winter testing.
Aside from adding new photos of BMW’s rival to the Mercedes-Benz B-Class that
was renewed just last year, we’ve also heard from our sources that the Active
Tourer will likely debut either towards the end of next year or early 2021.
Dressed
in heavy camouflage, the second-generation MPV has an evolutionary design that
is sportier than before – as sporty as a minivan can be, of course. One of the
biggest changes occurs up front as the model adopts a significantly larger
grille. The front end also appears taller than before and this helps to give
the model a more crossover-like appearance. Continuing
further back, we can see an angular shoulder line and a revised greenhouse. The
model also adopts door-mounted mirrors, a sloping roof and new door handles. The rear end doesn’t appear to change much
as it retains a rakish window, a tailgate-mounted spoiler and a curvaceous
bumper. However, the prototype has been equipped with slimmer taillights.
Moving
into the cabin, drivers will apparently be treated to a dual display setup that
was teased on the iNext concept. As you can see, it features a digital
instrument cluster which is positioned next to a widescreen infotainment
system. Elsewhere,
there’s an evolutionary center stack and a makeshift center console. The latter
features a compact gear selector which helps to free up interior space. Last
but not least, we can see new door panels with angular arm rests and metallic
accents.
BMW
has been tight-lipped about the 2-Series Active Tourer, but it is expected to
ride on an updated version of the UKL platform. The model is also expected to
grow in size as the larger Gran Tourer variant will reportedly be dropped. Engine options remain unconfirmed, but we
can expect petrol, diesel and plug-in hybrid options. There’s no word on
specifics, but choices should echo those available on the 1-Series.
As
a result, there could be a turbocharged 1.5-liter three-cylinder petrol with
138 hp. There could also be a 1.5-liter three-cylinder diesel
with 114 hp as well as a 2.0-liter four-cylinder diesel with
outputs of 148 hp and 187 hp.