BMW 2 Series Gran Tourer: Cheap, Discontinued & Worth Buying?
Few BMWs divide opinion quite like the 2 Series Gran Tourer. It’s a seven-seat MPV from a brand known for rear-wheel-drive sports saloons — and that contradiction makes it one of the most interesting used buys on the market today.
Production years: 2015–2022 ·
Seating: 7 ·
Drivetrain: Front-wheel drive ·
Engine options: 1.5L petrol, 2.0L diesel ·
Body style: 5-door MPV
Quick snapshot
- Produced from 2015 to 2021 as a 7-seater MPV (Wikipedia – BMW 2 Series Active Tourer)
- Front‑wheel‑drive platform shared with Mini and BMW 2 Series Active Tourer (Wikipedia – BMW 2 Series Active Tourer)
- Exact sales figures that led to discontinuation – BMW never published model‑specific data.
- Whether timing‑chain issues affect all diesel engines or only pre‑2018 units.
- 2015 – Launched as BMW’s first FWD MPV (Wikipedia – BMW 2 Series Active Tourer).
- 2018 – Facelift with updated engines and interior (Wikipedia – BMW 2 Series Active Tourer).
- 2022 – Production ended due to low sales and SUV focus (Wikipedia – BMW 2 Series Active Tourer).
- Used prices will continue to fall as MPVs depreciate faster than SUVs.
- Buyers should target post‑2018 facelift cars for better reliability.
Key facts
The Gran Tourer’s key specifications highlight its role as a spacious family MPV.
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Years produced | 2015–2022 |
| Number of seats | 7 |
| Drivetrain | Front‑wheel drive |
| Body style | 5‑door MPV |
| Fuel economy (combined) | 40–50 mpg (diesel), 38–44 mpg (petrol) |
Why did BMW stop making the 2 Series Gran Tourer?
Low sales and market shift
- BMW sold fewer than expected units each year, making the line unprofitable. The brand never disclosed exact figures, but BreakerLink (automotive parts specialist) notes that sales were insufficient to justify continued production.
- European buyers increasingly chose SUVs over MPVs, and the Gran Tourer couldn’t compete with the X1 and X2 for sales volume.
Focus on SUVs and the X1/X2
- BMW’s product strategy shifted towards premium compact SUVs, which offered higher profit margins and better brand image.
- The X1, launched a year earlier, quickly outsold the Gran Tourer despite offering only five seats.
End of production timeline
- The last Gran Tourer rolled off the line in 2021 (sold as 2022 model). BMW confirmed discontinuation without fanfare.
Is the BMW 2 Series Gran Tourer a good car?
Practicality and space
- Seven seats with a flexible interior: the second row slides and folds, and the third row accommodates children or occasional adults.
- What Car? (UK car reviews) gave it a 3.5/5 reliability rating, noting that running costs are reasonable for a BMW. (Note: duplicate URL removed)
Driving experience and engine performance
- Front‑wheel drive handling is competent but not sporty – a clear departure from BMW’s traditional rear‑drive character.
- The 1.5‑litre petrol (218i) produces 140 hp; the 2.0‑litre diesel (218d) delivers 150 hp and up to 50 mpg combined (Parkers (UK car data specialist)).
Reliability and running costs
- What Car? 2024 reliability survey placed BMW 12th out of 32 manufacturers – an improvement over previous years).
- Owner reports on 2Addicts forum (enthusiast community) suggest the 218d is generally reliable, with 54+ mpg achievable.
Why is the BMW 2 Series Gran Tourer cheaper than other BMW models?
High depreciation of MPVs
- MPVs historically lose value faster than SUVs. Parkers (UK car data specialist) data shows the Gran Tourer depreciates 40-50% in the first three years.
- Example: a 2017 model that listed for £28,000 now sells for £12,000–£16,000.
Brand perception of front‑wheel drive
- BMW purists view front‑wheel drive as a dilution of the brand’s core identity, which pushes resale values lower.
- The Gran Tourer shares its underpinnings with the Mini, reinforcing the idea that it’s not a “real” BMW.
Competition from mainstream rivals
- Ford Galaxy and VW Touran offer similar space for less money, forcing BMW to price the Gran Tourer competitively even on the used market.
The implication: buyers get a premium badge at a discount, but accept the trade-offs in driving dynamics and brand perception.
What are the common problems with the Gran Tourer?
Electrical gremlins
- Some owners report infotainment screen freezes and sensor glitches. ChooseMyCar (consumer car review site) notes electrical issues as a recurring complaint.
- The BMW Advanced Car Eye camera rubber seal reportedly wears after about four years (BuddyTech (independently verified YouTube channel)).
Clutch and transmission issues
- Manual clutch failures on early models have been reported on forums. BreakerLink highlights rear axle bolts loosening, leading to clunks and instability. (source removed for dedup)
- Brake pads and discs may need replacement after 1.5‑2 years of use.
Timing chain concerns on diesel engines
- N47 diesel engines (pre‑2018) are known for chain tensioner weakness, which can cause rattling and, in worst cases, engine failure.
- BreakerLink warns that N47 timing chain issues are “well documented” and recommend checking service history. (source removed for dedup)
Cheaper used prices come with legitimate risks. A thorough pre‑purchase inspection (especially timing chain and electronics) is essential before buying a pre‑2018 Gran Tourer.
Which car is called poor man’s BMW?
Why the Gran Tourer earned that nickname
- The 2 Series Gran Tourer is frequently called the “poor man’s BMW” because used examples can be found for under £12,000 – far less than any other 7‑seat BMW.
- Its front‑wheel drive and MPV body style clash with the brand’s premium sports image, reinforcing the label.
Other contenders for the title
- The BMW 1 Series (F40, also front‑drive) and the 2 Series Active Tourer share similar criticisms.
- But the Gran Tourer’s unique combination of seven seats and a budget price makes it the most affordable BMW by far.
Is the badge still worth it?
- Build quality remains typical BMW – solid interior materials and good refinement.
- For families who prioritise space and badge prestige over driving thrills, the Gran Tourer offers genuine value.
The “poor man’s BMW” tag is a backhanded compliment: you get a proper seven‑seat vehicle with a roundel on the grille for the price of a well‑specced Vauxhall Zafira.
Comparison: BMW 2 Series Gran Tourer vs Active Tourer vs VW Touran
Both the Gran Tourer and its rivals have distinct strengths that cater to different priorities.
| Attribute | Gran Tourer | Active Tourer | VW Touran |
|---|---|---|---|
| Seats | 7 | 5 | 7 |
| Drivetrain | FWD | FWD | FWD |
| Boot space (seats up) | 560 L | 468 L | 577 L |
| Typical used price (2018) | £14,000–£18,000 | £13,000–£17,000 | £12,000–£16,000 |
| Fuel economy (diesel) | 54+ mpg | 55+ mpg | 52+ mpg |
| Reliability score | 3.5/5 (What Car) | 3.5/5 | 4/5 (What Car) |
The pattern: the Gran Tourer offers the most space and badge value, but the Touran is more reliable.
Specification table: BMW 2 Series Gran Tourer (218d)
The 218d diesel offers a good balance of performance and efficiency for a seven-seat MPV.
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Engine | 2.0L 4‑cyl turbo diesel |
| Power | 150 hp |
| Torque | 330 Nm |
| 0–62 mph | 9.1 seconds |
| Top speed | 130 mph |
| Combined fuel economy | 54.3 mpg |
| CO2 emissions | 119 g/km |
| Kerb weight | 1,505 kg |
| Boot capacity (7 seats) | 560 L / 1,905 L (seats down) |
| Towing capacity | 1,500 kg (braked) |
These figures confirm the 218d as the most efficient seven-seater in its class.
Pros and Cons
Upsides
- Genuine 7‑seat capability in a compact footprint
- Low used prices offer exceptional value
- Good fuel economy (diesel: 54+ mpg)
- Solid build quality and premium interior
Downsides
- Not a driver’s car – FWD handling lacks engagement
- Timing chain concerns (pre‑2018 diesel)
- Higher servicing costs than mainstream MPVs
- Third row is tight for adults
What this means: the Gran Tourer is a practical choice for families, but enthusiasts should look elsewhere.
Timeline: Lifecycle of the Gran Tourer
- 2015 – BMW launches the 2 Series Gran Tourer, the brand’s first front‑wheel‑drive MPV (Wikipedia – BMW 2 Series Active Tourer).
- 2018 – Facelift with updated engine range and interior improvements (Wikipedia – BMW 2 Series Active Tourer).
- 2022 – Production ends; BMW discontinues the Gran Tourer due to low sales and SUV focus (Wikipedia – BMW 2 Series Active Tourer).
The lifecycle shows a swift market shift away from MPVs.
Clarity: What we know vs what remains uncertain
Confirmed facts
- Production run: 2015–2022 (Wikipedia – BMW 2 Series Active Tourer)
- Front‑wheel drive platform shared with Mini and 2 Series Active Tourer (Wikipedia – BMW 2 Series Active Tourer)
- 7‑seat configuration standard
What’s unclear
- Exact sales figures that led to discontinuation – BMW never published model‑specific data.
- Whether the timing chain issue affects all diesel engines or only pre‑2018 units.
- Whether the What Car reliability rating of 3.5/5 remains accurate for newer models (the survey data may not cover post‑2018 cars specifically).
- Whether the 218d engine’s long-term reliability holds in all post‑2018 examples based on limited owner reports (2Addicts forum (enthusiast community)).
Understanding these certainties and uncertainties helps buyers make an informed decision.
What owners and experts say
“The 2 Series Gran Tourer is a practical family car that depreciates heavily, making it a good used buy.”
“Engines range from a 1.5‑litre petrol to a 2.0‑litre diesel, with fuel economy up to 50 mpg.”
“Several owners report infotainment screen freezes and clutch wear on early models.”
These quotes reflect the general consensus: a good used buy with caveats.
Summary
The BMW 2 Series Gran Tourer is what happens when a premium brand tries to compete in the family‑MPV segment – and the market punished it. But that very failure creates an opportunity for budget‑conscious buyers today. For a family looking for seven seats and a premium badge without spending £40,000, the choice is simple: buy a facelifted 218d with a full service history, or walk away and pay thousands more for a Touran that drives just as well but doesn’t carry the roundel.
Related reading: BMW 2 Series Gran Tourer 7 seater review · BMW 2 Series Active Tourer
If you’re weighing the practicality of the seven-seat Gran Tourer, it’s worth comparing it with the five-seat BMW 2 Series Active Tourer to see which layout suits your family better.
Frequently asked questions
How many seats does the BMW 2 Series Gran Tourer have?
It seats seven across three rows. The middle row slides and folds, and the third row is best suited for children or shorter journeys.
What engines are available in the BMW 2 Series Gran Tourer?
Two main options: a 1.5‑litre three‑cylinder petrol (218i, 140 hp) and a 2.0‑litre four‑cylinder diesel (218d, 150 hp). A plug‑in hybrid (225xe) was also offered in some markets.
Is the BMW 2 Series Gran Tourer reliable?
What Car? gave it 3.5/5 for reliability. The 218d is generally dependable but timing‑chain issues on pre‑2018 diesels are a known weak spot.
What is the fuel economy of the BMW 2 Series Gran Tourer?
The diesel achieves 54+ mpg combined; the petrol returns 38–44 mpg. Real‑world figures are slightly lower depending on driving style.
How does the BMW 2 Series Gran Tourer compare to the BMW 2 Series Active Tourer?
The Active Tourer is shorter and seats five; the Gran Tourer adds a third row and more boot space. Both use the same platform and engines. The Gran Tourer is the practical choice for larger families.
Is the BMW 2 Series Gran Tourer good for families?
Yes – seven seats, sliding second row, and a 560‑litre boot make it one of the most flexible compact MPVs. Just be aware of the firm ride on larger wheels.
What is the boot space of the BMW 2 Series Gran Tourer?
With all seats up: 560 litres. With the third row folded: 1,905 litres. Maximum load length when both rear rows are down is around 1.7 metres.
Related reading: BMW 2 Series Active Tourer (including Gran Tourer) · BMW 2 Series Gran Tourer 7 seater review
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