BMW 2 Series Gran Tourer review - Engines, performance and drive

Up front, the seating position is surprisingly low for an MPV, which helps set the 2 Series GT apart from its less driver-focused rivals. The class-leading dynamics also help in this regard.

So long as you are not expecting the 2 GT to corner like a 3 Series, you’re likely to be impressed with the way it drives. Despite its front-wheel drive (there’s an all-wheel drive version but it only sends power to the rear when the fronts start to slip) and tall body, this people carrier still feels very much like a BMW in the way it steers, handles and rides.

You get the sense the oily bits underneath the skin are hewn from slightly sturdier stuff than in lesser rivals and that more time and money has been spent developing the car at the test track.

Still, they can appreciate the comfort at all speeds. The cabin is well insulated from outside noise and the suspension deals with bumps in that firm but fair, BMW way. Beware of M Sport trim though as combined with the larger wheels, the upgraded lowered and stiffened sports suspension does start to feel a little too harsh on rougher roads for a people mover - even when fitted with the optional adaptive dampers.

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Engines, 0-60 acceleration and top speed

The BMW 2 Series Gran Tourer is powered by a range of petrol and diesel engines. Petrol models include the 218i, powered by the same 134bhp, 1.5-litre three-cylinder as the MINI hatchback. Another imported MINI engine is found in the 220i; a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder from the MINI Cooper S with 176bhp.

There are three diesel options: the 114bhp three-cylinder 216d, the 148bhp 2.0-litre four-cylinder in the 218d, and a more powerful, 187bhp version of the same unit that’s offered in the 220d. Only the latter has the option of xDrive four-wheel drive.

The 216i, 216d and 218d are available with the choice of manual or automatic gearboxes; the other engines in the range are automatic-only.