2022 BMW 2 Series Active Tourer & 2 Series Coupe Launched in Singapore : Back 2 Back

Singapore Wine Vault, Singapore - We have before us a variety of new additions from BMW’s hugely popular 2 Series family, in the midst of the numerous varietals housed within the Singapore Wine Vault. We're not here for a tasting though. Instead, we're looking at the new U09 BMW 218i Active Tourer and the G42 BMW 2 Series Coupe; in both 220i M-Sport and M240i xDrive guises.

The new BMW 2 Series Active Tourer replaces the first-generation F45 2 Series Active Tourer (pictured above), while the new 2er Coupe replaces the F22 2 Series. These cars, along with the new G42 2 Series Coupe and F44 2 Series Gran Coupe (also pictured above), completes the 2 Series lineup in Singapore.

As the saying goes, family comes first. So we'll begin with the more family-oriented BMW 2 Series Active Tourer, which our contributing editor tested in Spain earlier this year. Specifically, the mild-hybrid 2 Series Active Tourer 220i and 223i as well as the PHEV 230e Active Tourer M-Sport. However, the only variant we have on offer here in Singapore (as of now) is the 218i Active Tourer in both Luxury Line and M-Sport trim.

BMW 218i Active Tourer - The Numbers

Both 218i AT models are powered by a turbocharged 1.5-litre inline-3 which sends 136hp and 230Nm to the front wheels via a 7-speed Steptronic dual-clutch auto. For those wondering, 0-100km/h takes 9 seconds and it goes all the way up to a top speed of 214km/h.

Unlike the 220i and 223i variants, the 218i doesn’t come with the 48V mild-hybrid tech in the other two cars we tested back in Spain. Despite the lack of hybridisation, the 218i’s on-paper fuel consumption of 6.8l/100km isn’t exactly drawing ire from us. It's a respectable figure that should be easily matched by the large majority of MPV buyers.

The 218i in its Luxury trim does come with an extensive list of bells and whistles. But in the upcoming M-Sport trim, the 218i Active Tourer comes with adaptive M-Suspension as standard, so one could have a spirited drive in this MPV when the moment calls for it. So that’s the “fun” quotient covered. On to the next bit.

BMW 218i Active Tourer - The Looks

Perhaps the biggest change to the 2 Series Active Tourer is its heavily reworked exterior shell and interior. Firstly, it’s bigger. Measuring in at 4386mm long and 1576mm high, the car is 21mm taller and 32mm longer than its predecessor. The added expanse does translate to a roomier interior with ample legroom and headroom. Even in the case of the Luxury Line Launch edition model with its massive panoramic sunroof.

The new 2AT’s kidney grilles are also significantly larger than before, though the adaptive headlights and taillights are slimmer LED units that give the MPV a sleeker appearance. Matter of fact, the car’s profile does bear some semblance to a crossover rather than an MPV, thanks to its steep A-pillar and slightly raked roofline.

The changes to the body shell aren’t just cosmetic though. Yes, it has more presence and certainly more bling. But the sleek, smooth surfaces aren’t just a design trait. The 2 Series AT actually has a drag coefficient of Cd 0.26, thanks to several elements including the flush door handles that we first saw on the M440i xDrive Gran Coupe.

BMW 218i Active Tourer - The Interior

But clearly, it's what's inside that counts, as we found out when we stepped into the massive cabin. Like BMW’s technology flagship, the all-electric iX crossover, the interior of the 2 Series Active Tourer is significantly more pared back than its predecessor, with fewer physical buttons and a floating centre console (No crystal knobs or olive-extract tanned leather here, though).

The instrument cluster and infotainment screen are housed in a single unit, dubbed the BMW curved display. Like the iX, the dashboard is almost devoid of buttons, save for some HVAC controls. Most controls are operated through the infotainment screen that runs off BMW’s Operating System 8.

The BMW M240i xDrive Coupe - Overview

Now, enough about the MPV. Let’s take a look at the MPA (Munich Performance Autos) car, the new BMW M240i xDrive Coupe. Lower, longer, leaner and meaner than the F22 2 Series Coupe it replaces. We’ve tested the M240i abroad in Germany late last year, and it’s finally making an appearance on our shores.

We’re already familiar with BMW’s marvellous B58 engine, but we’ll go ahead and give you the numbers for this performance coupe anyway. A turbocharged 3.0-litre straight-six mated to an 8-speed Steptronic torque converter automatic box, pushing 374hp and 500Nm.

At full pelt, the M240i xDrive does 0-100km/h in 4.3 seconds and tops out at 250km/h. If you’re wondering how quick that is, consider this; This exact engine has been put to good use in the BMW M340i xDrive sedan and M440i xDrive Gran Coupe, and those are some very very VERY brisk cars. Now imagine it in a 2+2 coupe that tips the scales at a hair under 1.7 tons. You’re looking at a potent mix of handling dynamics and some serious horsepower figures.

Mind you, this is an all-wheel-drive M-Performance car that is more powerful than the RWD non-competition F87 M2 Coupe when it first launched. Clearly, the lines between M-Performance and full-fledged M cars are getting increasingly blurred.

The BMW 220i Coupe - Overview

If that’s a little much for you, perhaps the BMW 220i would be up your alley. Under the hood of the 220i coupe lies a turbocharged 2.0-litre inline-four that produces 184 horsepower and 300Nm of torque. 0-100km/h is dealt with in 7.5 seconds. M badges and cerium grey trim pieces aside, you’d be hard-pressed to sport the external difference between the M240i and the 220i.

The 2 Series Active Tourer Luxury Line retails for S$220,888 (the Luxury Line Launch edition retails for S$229,888), while the 220i Coupe and M240i xDrive Coupe are priced at S$257,888 and S$349,888 respectively. No word yet on the 2AT M-Sport’s price, so watch this space.

PHOTOS Jay Tee