BMW has introduced an upgraded version of its 2 Series Active Tourer plug-in hybrid, promising more electric-only range and lower rates of CO2 emissions.
As a result of improved battery technology, the 225xe is now said to be capable of up to 35 miles of range on battery power alone — seven miles further than its predecessor. CO2 levels, meanwhile, drop to 42g/km on the latest WLTP measuring cycle.
When connected to a BMW i Wallbox, the Active Tourer’s battery can be charged from empty to full in under three hours and 15 minutes.
The car still uses a 1.5-litre three-cylinder petrol engine linked to an electric motor. Total output from the powertrain is 225hp with 385Nm of torque, sent to all four wheels through an automatic gearbox — resulting in a 6.5-second 0-62mph time and a 126mph top speed.
Full UK specifications for the car are yet to be confirmed, but BMW has confirmed that selectable drive and battery modes will be part of the package. These include Sport, Comfort and Eco Pro settings, along with an eDrive button that allows the battery usage to be configured — Auto eDrive mode has the car decide, Max eDrive allows for totally electric propulsion and Save Battery maintains the electric range for most appropriate use.
BMW is yet to confirm UK on-sale dates for the upgraded 2 Series Active Tourer, but observers suggest early 2020. Prices are likely to be similar to the current car’s £35,300.
