The BMW 218d is not only an elegant, practical, and efficient MPV, but it is also among the most reliable BMW cars on the market. Even though the BMW 218d has a lot of positives, it also has fewer issues that interested buyers should know about.
This car faces issues such as EGR module cooler leak, oil leak, power steering support failure, and much more. It is also quite expensive to maintain, just like other BMWs. Generally, the BMW 218d is very reliable and doesn’t consume a lot of fuel.
History of BMW 218d
The BMW 218d is part of the BMW 2-Series. The BMW 2-Series was created after BMW decided to amplify the two-door models of the BMW 1-Series into a separate series. Additionally, the 2-Series was first launched as a 2-door coupe and convertible, which were both based on a rear-wheel-drive platform.
One year later after the BMW 2-Series coupe and convertible were introduced, the BMW 2-Series Active Tourer or 218d was also introduced. This is a 5-seat compact MPV, which featured a front-wheel-drive platform. Later on, BMW also introduced the 7-seat, Gran Tourer body style, and in 2019, the Gran Coupe fastback sedan was added to the line.
The BMW 218d has been in the market from 2014 to date. However, if you want a performance 2-Series, the BMW M2 is the best choice.
Features of BMW 218d
Appearance
The BMW 218d is a simple, yet stylish subcompact executive car. The earlier models feature a small kidney grille, while the latest models come with a slightly larger kidney grille that is sandwiched between two sharper LED headlights. Also, it comes with LED taillights and somewhat hidden exhaust pipes.
Besides, the box design makes this MPV stand out from its competitors and be more practical. When it comes to the interior, the car is upscale, even though not on the same level as the bigger BMW series. Some of the interior features that stand out are cloth seats in the base trim, a 10.7-inch central touchscreen, and a 10.25-inch digital driver’s display.
Note that the BMW 218d has three trim options, which include the basic sport trim, luxury trim, and M sport trim, which is the performance variant. Both the Sport and Luxury trims feature 17-inch alloy wheels, while the M Sport trim comes with 18-inch alloy rims.
Performance
The BMW 218d comes with three different trims. The base model is the least powerful as it is fitted with a 2.0-liter turbocharged 16v inline-4 diesel engine. This engine delivers up to a maximum of 150 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque. On top of that, it has a top speed of up to 132 mph and can accelerate from 0 to 60 in just 7.9 seconds.
If you want the best performing trim, consider picking the M Sport as it handles better, is faster, and performs excellently.
Comfort and cargo area
Despite the BMW 218d being compact, it is a very practical car. Thanks to the spacious cabin and large trunk area. The trunk offers a total of 470 liters, which is enormous for such a small car. Moreover, this car can accommodate up to five people, which is excellent.
Fuel-efficiency
The BMW 218d is one of the most fuel-efficient MPVs on the market. This car returns up to 49.6 mpg and emits 149g/km of CO2, making it one of the best luxury cars for daily driving.
Price
This car is very affordable and even cheaper than its petrol counterpart. Its price ranges between $22,000 and $38,000.
FAQ
How reliable is the BMW 218d?
BMWs are known to be unreliable cars. Nonetheless, not all BMWs are unreliable as some models such as the BMW 3-Series and 2-Series offer reliable models. The BMW 218d is not an exception as it is one of the most reliable cars in its class.
Consumer Report ranks the BMW 218d as having average reliability, while J.D. Power ranks the same car as having above-average reliability. However, the cost of maintaining this car is still high as BMW parts are slightly costlier than most of its competitors.
What are the common problems of the BMW 218d?
If you intend to purchase the BMW 218d, you need to find out some of the issues that your car will face. Common problems on the BMW 218d include the EGR module cooler leak, electrical faults, air conditioning issues, blown up the turbo, clutch issues, and oil leakage.
Note that some of the above issues came with the car, while others like oil leakage and blown up turbo are a result of continued use of the car. So, before you pay for a quality used BMW 218d, ensure to find out whether the car model year was recalled and issues were rectified.
How fast is the BMW 218d Active Tourer?
The BMW 218d is not the fastest of cars as it can accelerate from 0 to 62 mph in 8.9 seconds and has a top speed of 129 mph. Thanks to the 2.0-liter turbocharged 16v inline-4 diesel engine that delivers a maximum of 148 bhp.
In terms of speed and performance, the BMW 218d Active Tourer is quite lacking compared to its competitors. So, if you’re looking for a high-performance BMW 2-Series model, you should consider the M2, which is faster and performs better.
What is the main difference between BMW’s Active Tourer and Gran Tourer?
Even though these two cars come with similar features, they are very different. For instance, the Gran Tourer is taller than the Active Tourer. However, the main difference is that the Active Tourer is a five-seat MPV, while the Gran Tourer is a seven-seat car with a long wheelbase.
How many miles does the BMW 218d last?
On average the BMW 218d can last between 150,000 and 200,000 miles. However, if the car is well maintained, it can last over 200,000 miles. Additionally, this car starts experiencing serious issues when it hits 100,000 miles. But when it is well maintained and driven in the right way, it can last for more than 15 years.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a compact, reliable, practical, and affordable luxury MPV, the BMW 218d is the perfect car for you. It is also stylish, elegant, and more reliable than most luxury cars. However, it has several issues that interested buyers should be aware of before investing in it. Overall, it is an excellent subcompact luxury car.