BMW 2 Series Gran Tourer

When it comes to interior quality, the Series 2 Grand Tourer is definitely on the top tier. The 5.1-inch instrument cluster serves as the backdrop for the multifunction steering wheel. At the center is the 8.8 infotainment display compatible with Apple CarPlay. Upgrade this MPV and you get a 5.7 high-resolution TFT display, a full-color heads up display, Harman Kardon sound system, and wireless charging to complete the posh vibe. Soft-touch leather with running stitches on seams adds to the premium appeal. Seats are plush and soft with ample legroom and headspace. Space is maximized through strategically placed cupholders and cubbies to keep the MPV organized.

The 2 Series Gran Tourer looks every bit of a typical MPV but with some modern styling and premium appeal that is associated with the BMW badge. The front façade features the signature double grille with chrome trim flanked by upswept LED headlights with daytime running lights. On the lower bumper is an air intake for additional ruggedness. On the sides are aerodynamic creases and side mirrors with turn signals. At the back is a couple of massive taillights that extend to the side, a curvy tailgate, dual exhaust, a massive rear spoiler, and shark fin antenna. The BMW 2 Series 216i, 218i, and 216d rides on a set of 16-inch light-alloy rims wrapped in 205/60 R16 V tires while the 220i, 218d, and 220d are fitted with 17-inch wheels wrapped in 205/55 R17 W rubber.

The BMW 2 Series Gran Tourer’s top of the line with its 8-speed Steptronic and all-wheel-drive feel punchy and sprightly. The engine feels very refined and responds to demand. The automatic gearbox is slick between changes and transitions smoothly without delay. The standard suspension keeps the body in check especially in tight turns which minimizes body rolls. The steering wheel is accurate and light to the touch. The xDrive all-wheel-drive provides additional grip in tough terrain and inclement weather. In terms of riding comfort, this BMW MPV delivers a cushioned ride with noise, vibration, and harshness kept at a bare minimum. Seats have enough firmness for comfort with ample legroom for the first and second-row passengers. The third row is a different story though. Seats are less cushioned and are on the firmer side. The legroom is already cramped, as usually is the case on compact MPVs. Though best used for luggage, the third row is most suited for small children and teens rather than full-grown adults.

The BMW 2 Series Gran Tourer comes in several engine sizes depending on the model but all come with a BMW Twin Power Turbo engine. The 216i is powered by a 1,499cc engine that generates 109 hp of power at 4,300 – 6,500 rpm and 190 Nm of torque at 1,380 – 3,800. It has a top speed of 188 kmph and can accelerate from zero to 100 kmph in 11.7 seconds. The 218i comes with the same size engine but delivers 140 hp of output and 220 Nm of torque. It has a top speed of 205 kmph and can go from 0 – 100 kmph in just 9.5 seconds. Both models have front-wheel drive type and are mated to a 6-speed manual transmission. The 220i comes in a 1,998cc engine that delivers 192 Hp of power and 280 Nm of torque. It has a top speed of 222 Km/h and can accelerate from standstill to 100 kmph in just 7.6 seconds. The engine is mated to a 7-speed DCT and has a front-wheel drivetrain. The 216d has the smallest engine at 1496 cc and churns out 116 hp at 4,000 rpm and 270 Nm of torque at 1,750 – 2,250 rpm. It has a top speed of 192 km/h and can reach 100 km/h in 11.5 seconds. The engine is mated to a 6-speed manual and has a front-wheel-drive type. The 218d is equipped with a 1,995 cc engine that delivers 150 Hp of maximum power at 4,000 rpm and 350 Nm of peak torque at 1,750 – 2,500 rpm. The engine is mated to a 6-speed manual transmission while the 218xDrive gets an 8-speed Steptronic and all-wheel drivetrain. Lastly, the 220d with 1,995 cc engine delivers a top speed of 190 Hp of maximum output and 400 Nm of peak torque. It has a top speed of 220 km/h and can accelerate from 0 – 100 km/h in about 8 seconds. The standard transmission for both 220d and 220dxDrive is 8-speed Steptronic. All engines are Euro6 emission standards compliant and are recommended to use RON 95 super unleaded petrol though unleaded petrol with RON 91 or higher would work.

Standard safety and driver-assist features include an airbag system, speed sensing lock, crash sensor ISOFIX, park distance control front & rear, a rearview camera, parking assist, rain sensor, automatic start/stop function, anti-lock braking system, dynamic stability control, and dynamic traction control. Other safety features like lane departure warning, BMW Head-up Display that projects driver info within the driver’s line of vision; Intelligent emergency call system that calls the nearest rescue center whenever needed; adaptive headlights with variable light control to adapt to the road; and traffic jam assist that lets the car glides along in traffic jams are just some of the other optional equipment that can be added to the BMW 2 Series.

When it comes to handling and performance, the 2 Series Gran Tourer truly delivers. It is well equipped and boasts of high-quality, premium finish cabin. Load it up with optional equipment and you get a family MPV that is not just fun to drive around the city but is competent to take on the rough roads.