Not every person loves a large car. Some prefer small but efficient and high-performance cars, such as the BMW 225xe active tourer plug-in hybrid vehicle.
Unlike most MPVs, the BMW 225xe delivers exceptional performance, handling, and it is one of the fastest. It also comes with ample cabin and cargo space, despite leaving some space for the plug-in hybrid engine. As a result, it pairs the standard 1.5-liter three-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine with a small electric motor.
Not only does the combination of the electric motor and petrol engine make this car more powerful, but it also provides it with a better range, more efficiency, and makes it economical. Besides, since less fuel is used, it emits fewer gasses into the atmosphere, making it an eco-friendly option.
History of the BMW 225xe
The BMW active tourer is a plug-in hybrid car with a 1.5-liter turbo three-cylinder petrol engine derived from the six-cylinder engines and a synchronous electric motor. It is also fitted with a lithium-ion battery pack and it is mechanically related to the MINI Countryman.
The BMW 225xe active tourer PHEV has been in production since 2015 to date. It is also made in Leipzig Germany and it is also related to the BMW X1, BMW X2, AND Mini Clubman. With the combination of electric motor and engine, this car delivers outstanding power and it can cover a longer distance than the BMW 225i.
Features of the BMW 225xe
Appearance
The BMW 225xe PHEV is a beautiful active tourer with a short and tall shape. It is one of the smallest MPVs on the market, but it is elegantly designed. Additionally, it comes with a beautiful and luxurious interior that will give you the BMW feel. It also has five doors and many fantastic features.
Performance
Astonishingly, the BMW 225xe comes with the same electric motor and battery pack as the BMW i8. The engine provides a total of 134 hp and 164 lb-ft of torque. Contrarily, the electric motor provides a total of 87 hp and 122 lb-ft of torque.
However, a combination of the two provides an exceptional 221 hp and 284 lb-ft of torque. As a result, it can accelerate from 0 to 60 in just 6.7 seconds with a top speed of 126 mph. That’s quicker than most of its competitors like the Skoda Yeti or Toyota Prius+.
Comfort and cargo space
As mentioned earlier, the BMW 225xe can host up to five people. Even though the plug-in hybrid engine has taken up some space, the car is still very comfortable. Thanks to the 56.7-inches of hip room in the front and rear of the car.
Apart from having a spacious cabin, the car also comes with ample cargo space that is even larger than the BMW i3. It has a total of 400 liters behind the rear seat and 1350 liters with the rear seat folded. So, you can keep your luggage in the boot.
Fuel efficiency
The BMW 225xe is a very economical and fuel-efficient car. Thanks to the combination of the 3-cylinder petrol engine and electric motor. It has a fuel-economy rating of 142. Mpg, which is excellent. This means that you will save a lot on fuel and pollute the environment less.
Price
If you compare the BMW 225xe with its competitors like the Skoda Yeti, and Seat Alhambra, you will find that it’s quite costly. However, it comes with more advanced features than its rivals. The base BMW 225xe goes for around $45,000. Therefore, if you go for the M Sport version, you will have to pay more.
FAQ
Is the BMW 225xe worth buying?
It depends on what you’re looking for. If you want a plug-in hybrid MPV with great efficiency, fewer emissions, exceptional performance, and an excellent range, the BMW 225xe is a great choice. But if you want a larger tourer that is also more reliable and easier to maintain, the 225xe is not the car for you.
What are the common problems of the BMW 225xe?
Before you invest in a used BMW 225xe, it is important to note some of the problems that you’re likely to face along the way. Some of the problems that you should expect to encounter are fuel flap cover issues, high battery voltage short circuits, electrical problems, weak battery, and issues with the EVAP system.
Is it cheap to maintain the BMW 225xe?
No, maintaining the BMW 225xe is quite costly. This is because it develops more issues than other cars in its class. Additionally, BMW parts are some of the most expensive, driving the cost of maintenance up. What’s more, BMW service centers and technicians charge a lot, which can also drive up the cost of maintenance.
How does the BMW 225xe work?
The BMW 225xe works by either using battery power, gasoline power, or combined. Since this car is a plug-in hybrid vehicle, it comes with the BMW eDrive and a 1.5-liter three-cylinder TwinPower Turbo engine that offers efficiency and increased range. Just switch to your preferred power depending on the needs of the car.
How long does it take for the BMW 225xe to charge?
On average, it takes 2.5 hours to charge. But if you have a faster charger, the 7.7 kWh battery will charge in less than 2 hours. If you have a type 2 connector, you can charge your car from home or at work. This is outstanding as some plug-in hybrid cars take over 4 hours to charge fully.
Conclusion
All in all, the BMW 225xe is a nice plug-in hybrid active tourer MPV as it is spacious, efficient, powerful, and very economical. Nonetheless, it also has a few issues that one should be ready to deal with, such as a weak battery, electrical issues, drivetrain problems, and fuel flap cover problems.
If you want to reduce pollution and save some cash on fuel, the BMW 225xe PHEV will help you do that. Besides, it is also compact and easy to drive around town. And if you’re a family person, this car is also practical and great for picnics as it has ample cargo space.
