[nozydog]

With the forthcoming 1 series destined for FWD orientation, will BMW continue with the 2 series Active Tourer? And if so, why?

The two will, judging by current pricing structure, be almost identically priced and of very similar size (& both 5 door hatchbacks)!! Surely building a single model would be substantially more cost effective!!

[mkoesel]

It's much the same situation Mercedes has today with the A Class and B Class. They share some similarities obviously, but still cater to different people with different needs.

I read somewhere that BMW will combine the 2 Series AT and GT into one vehicle for the next generation (codenamed U08, allegedly). If true, that should alleviate any potential overlap because the new combined offering would inherit the GT's longer wheelbase, making it a much more capacious offering than the 1 Series 5-door.

[nozydog]

Originally Posted by mkoesel

It's much the same situation Mercedes has today with the A Class and B Class. They share some similarities obviously, but still cater to different people with different needs.

I read somewhere that BMW will combine the 2 Series AT and GT into one vehicle for the next generation (codenamed U08, allegedly). If true, that should alleviate any potential overlap because the new combined offering would inherit the GT's longer wheelbase, making it a much more capacious offering than the 1 Series 5-door.

Yes I guess the next 2 AT has to become more of a mini MPV than a mere hatchback to differentiate it from the 1 series. I am looking forward to seeing the new 1er which I guess won't be revealed until well into next year!?