In this test, we put BMW's "double series" to the test, which carries with it two significant acts. The first act on the part of the Munich car company is the development of a two-series, i.e. MPV. The second act is the revolutionary shift of the drive to the front axle. Since this is a new segment for this brand, we are all the more curious to see what the result will be.
The MPVéčko with the additional label Active Tourer is more of an additional model in the BMW portfolio, which fills an empty space in the menu. This philosophy is not entirely typical on the part of the Bavarian, however, the "two" is not intended to attract existing clientele, but it is evident from the press releases that it is intended to bring in clients who have not even seriously considered the "Bavarian" until now.
The car combines typical features and elements. It is a functional connection of sports spirit and space, if you want practicality. Among the typical elements that have been carried over from the existing lines are the significant kidney stones and, as we know from the E36 model, also the "angel-eyes". When looking from behind, the hungry eye of the observer will catch the sharp bend of the rear headlight, which resembles the letter L. But that's about all…the designers and constructors have done the rest.
Spaciousness, if you want practicality. Since, willy-nilly, these are MPVs, which are characterized by a higher driver's seat, the Bavarian did not back down in this regard either. However, the interior design responds very well to this fact. The dashboard together with the side decorations surround the driver very pleasantly and give a sense of security. The latest interior design is crowned by the new generation of the steering wheel, which cannot be evaluated other than excellent with an asterisk due to its seating but especially its average processing. The seats of at least the front row can be evaluated similarly. You fit into them perfectly and they don't budge even an inch during a more sporty ride. The rear seats in these rows will be used almost exclusively only by children, who will not miss anything at all. And just in case, they can use the installed infotainment. Taller figures, however, cannot allow themselves such space and comfort. The layout of the interior in an MPV is simply not built for it.
It is impossible not to mention a few facts about the fifth door and the luggage compartment. If the rear seats are retained, the volume is calculated at 468 liters. If that wasn't enough for you, you can fold down the seats to increase the luggage compartment to a full 1,510 litres. Folding the rear seats is really simple, they just press a button and the car takes care of everything. "One hand, one foot" is enough to prepare the car for loading in combination with the electric control of the fifth door.
The engine is diesel or turbodiesel, which is available in several variants. We haven't had the opportunity to test all three (yet), but our 218d with a two-liter four-cylinder is absolutely, absolutely sufficient for this model with its 110kW output. The 218Ka is suitable both for the city, especially when using Eco-drive, i.e. the start-stop system, which saves your wallet, but mainly the planet. Since the engine is quiet and has a nice quiet and refined operation, the start-stop system will be tolerable even for opponents of this convenience. On the highway, the engine just whirrs at standard speeds, and driving on longer routes will not strain your eardrums in any way. This is also underlined by the refined aerodynamics of the car.
As for the chassis, we had the option of having the "M-packet" variant. That is, a buildable and more rigid basis for travel. From the ranks of the public, there is sometimes considerable criticism of this chassis. However, we strongly disagree with this. And for several reasons. First, it's a BMW. Second, the excellent handling of the chassis settings. Third, buy a Mercedes B series.
The fact is simply that the chassis perfectly dampens unevenness and does not let itself be thrown away during sharper maneuvers on the highway or when "mousing" in city centers.
Autozine praises!
