As BMW's Active Tourer minivan concept continues to "actively tour" auto shows around the world, it becomes certain that BMW will indeed venture into minivan segment.
Just like 10 years ago, when BMW first entered SUV market with first generation BMW X5, the purist section of BMW fan base is not going to be happy.
For them it seems like another chapter in the "How BMW diluted themselves to hatchback and minivan company" story. Another nail in the coffin in which soon BMW's last bits of credibility and image will be buried forever. For them it's an unwelcome and unloved newborn in the BMW family.
I realize that there is no way I could claim myself amongst the BMW purists, because I really have nothing against a BMW minivan. BMW have already spread their presence far beyond the sports sedan. Not only in the SUV and crossover segments but also in the very lucrative "Golf class" and, soon, in the various electric and hybrid markets.
BMW has never been a one trick pony sports sedan company. BMW have always focused on engine development, providing powertrain for various car manufacturers, as well as making vehicles themselves. These vehicles were not limited to four door sedans or coupes. BMW were making motorcycles before they ever got into cars. And some of the cars that carried a BMW badge were far from being "sports" or "sedan" - think Isetta "bubble car".
For me, the essence of BMW is not as much about certain vehicle body type or engine configuration as it is about making the best powertrain and providing best driving dynamics in any given class of vehicles.
Of course, I would prefer the Active Tourer to be world's first minivan with longitudinally mounted, naturally aspirated inline six and rear wheel drive. At the same time I realize that is a silly idea and BMW's proposed 3 cylinder hybrid solution is far superior in every measurable quality.
There are, of course, unmeasurable qualities that a classic BMW layout has, and future electric and hybrid powertrains won't have. But so does a typewriter, a horse and a carriage or a candle lamp. This doesn't mean you would prefer to commute in a horse carriage and do your e-mails without the "e", in candle light, typing on a 1930s typewriter.
Times change and so must our stagnated stereotypes of what certain brands should or should not represent. Let the sales figures decide whether or not a BMW minivan was a good idea.
