Is there still a place for the MPV in this SUV world? The new, second-gen BMW 2 Series Active Tourer thinks so – and we can see why. First UK drive:
Let's deal with the inside first, because an MPV succeeds or fails by its ability to deliver on the family-friendly front. After all, what’s the point in buying a car that’s maybe not as easy on the eye or as dynamically dexterous as an SUV or family hatch if it doesn't deliver an extra slice of space and practicality?
There’s a decent amount of storage, too, with large door bins front and back, and a big centre console cubby features a neat smartphone holder and wireless charging pad. Sitting between the front seats is a large trinket tray, while ‘floating’ above this is an armrest that also houses the gear selector toggle and iDrive infotainment controls. Yet there’s none of the numerous lidded hideaways and thoughtful touches that marked out its one-time French rivals.
on the move because of the constant need to tap away at a screen for basic functions usually the preserve of traditional buttons. That said, the augmented-reality sat-nav that overlays directions on a real-time camera view of the road ahead does work brilliantly. It’s not the most charismatic unit, with a synthesised accompaniment to its bland note when extended, but it's smooth enough and usually works well with dual-clutch auto. Only occasionally is the transmission wrong-footed, particularly at low speeds as it and the stop-start system contrive to deliver some learner-driver-specification jerky getaways.