These are the first images of the BMW Active Tourer Concept, which is heading for the Paris Motor Show in a few short weeks. The Active Tourer Concept is expected to reach production badged as a 1 Series GT. BMW say the Active Tourer Concept is 4 350 mm long, 1 834 mm wide and 1 560 mm tall, making it noticeably larger than the 1 Series, especially in height, at 139 mm taller. Interestingly, the concept’s wheelbase is 20 mm shorter than the 1 Series at 2 670 mm. These dimensions suggest the Active Tourer Concept will go head-to-head with the Mercedes-Benz B-Class, at 4 359 mm long, 1 786 mm wide and 1 557 mm tall.

Under the bonnet, the concept employs a plug-in hybrid drivetrain consisting of BMW’s newly released 1.5-litre turbocharged 3-cylinder petrol engine, which sends power to the front wheels. In addition, an electric motor acts on the rear axle and is capable of powering the car on its own for 30 kilometers if enough charge is available. BMW says the total power output is over 140 kW and should provide enough ‘get up and go’ to see the car reach 100 km/h from standstill in under 8 seconds. Top speed is expected to be in the region of 200 km/h. With the hybrid drivetrain comes the question of fuel consumption and BMW say the Active Tourer Concept is capable of an impressive 2.5 L/100km on average; this includes the use of electric only power.

BMW Active Tourer Concept’s styling is more solid looking than its 1 Series hatch counterpart, looking broader and reflecting some of the maturity found in the larger and pricier BMW models. The interior includes such technologies as BMW’s head-up display, large central screen and iDrive controller. Other passenger comforts include seatback-mounted screens for the rear passengers and a full-length panoramic glass roof adding to the sense of spaciousness.