Hey guys! Let's dive into the BMW 218d Gran Tourer from 2017. This car is a bit of a chameleon, blending the sporty BMW DNA with a practical, family-friendly design. It's a vehicle that often gets overlooked, but it's got a lot to offer. In this detailed review, we'll explore everything from its performance and features to its common issues and overall value. Whether you're considering buying one or just curious, stick around – we're about to uncover all the goods.

Overview of the BMW 218d Gran Tourer 2017

Alright, first things first: the BMW 2 Series Gran Tourer. Think of it as BMW's answer to the need for more space and practicality without sacrificing the driving experience. The 218d, in particular, is the diesel variant, known for its fuel efficiency. The 2017 model year brought some refinements and updates, making it a solid choice for families and anyone needing extra room. This car is a compact MPV (Multi-Purpose Vehicle), meaning it's designed to maximize interior space, making it a great option for those who need to haul kids, groceries, and gear. The Gran Tourer differentiates itself from the standard 2 Series with its longer wheelbase and taller roofline, providing more headroom and legroom for passengers in the back. The 2017 model benefited from BMW's ongoing commitment to improve the driving experience and enhance the overall package, including advancements in technology and design. The 218d engine specifically offers a balance of power and fuel economy, making it a cost-effective choice for daily driving. BMW has managed to retain its sporty handling characteristics despite the practical design. Overall, it's a vehicle that tries to cater to the needs of different drivers, providing a blend of performance, practicality, and efficiency, all wrapped up in a premium package. The 2017 model year is a sweet spot, as it benefits from the latest features and refinements while being available at a more affordable price point compared to newer models.

The 218d is powered by a 2.0-liter four-cylinder diesel engine. This engine is known for its impressive fuel economy. This means fewer trips to the gas station and more money in your pocket. The interior boasts a modern design with high-quality materials, typical of BMW. You'll find a well-laid-out dashboard, comfortable seating, and a user-friendly infotainment system. The Gran Tourer's versatility shines through with its flexible seating arrangements. The rear seats can slide, recline, and even fold flat, providing ample space for passengers and cargo.

Key Features and Specifications:

• Engine: 2.0-liter four-cylinder diesel
• Power: Typically around 150 horsepower
• Fuel Economy: Impressive fuel efficiency, often achieving over 50 mpg
• Seating: Standard five-seat configuration, with an optional third row to provide seven seats
• Infotainment: BMW's iDrive system with a central display
• Safety: Equipped with various safety features, including airbags, stability control, and sometimes advanced driver-assistance systems.

Performance and Driving Experience

Let's talk about how this car actually drives, shall we? The 2017 BMW 218d Gran Tourer manages to keep the driving fun and engaging, even though it's designed for practicality. The 2.0-liter diesel engine offers a decent amount of power, making it feel peppy in city driving and more than capable on the highway. The engine's torque delivery is particularly useful for accelerating and overtaking. The car handles well, with responsive steering and minimal body roll, which is pretty impressive for a vehicle in this class. You'll notice that the suspension is tuned to provide a comfortable ride, which is ideal for long journeys. The Gran Tourer doesn't shy away from being fun to drive, despite its focus on practicality. BMW engineers have ensured that it keeps its reputation for delivering a satisfying driving experience.

The 218d offers a good balance between performance and fuel economy. The diesel engine is known for its impressive fuel efficiency, making it a cost-effective choice for daily commuting and longer trips. The car is surprisingly agile for its size. The suspension system is designed to provide a comfortable ride without compromising handling. The steering is precise, adding to the overall driving enjoyment. The car can be confidently maneuvered through city streets and on winding roads. The driving experience is further enhanced by the available driving modes.

Driving Dynamics:

• Engine Performance: The 2.0-liter diesel engine delivers strong low-end torque, making it feel responsive in various driving conditions. It provides sufficient power for both city and highway driving.
• Handling: The Gran Tourer provides a level of handling you'd expect from a BMW. The suspension is well-tuned, offering good body control and minimal roll. The steering is precise and responsive, making it easy to maneuver.
• Ride Comfort: The suspension is set up to provide a comfortable ride, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road. This makes it a great choice for long journeys and daily commuting.

Interior, Comfort, and Practicality

Alright, let's peek inside! The 2017 BMW 218d Gran Tourer has a well-thought-out interior that's both functional and stylish. The materials are high-quality, with soft-touch surfaces and a premium feel throughout the cabin. The dashboard design is typical BMW: clean, uncluttered, and driver-focused. You'll find the iDrive infotainment system, which is generally user-friendly and easy to navigate.

One of the biggest selling points of the Gran Tourer is its practicality. The rear seats can slide forward and backward to maximize legroom or cargo space. The seats also recline, adding to passenger comfort. With the seats folded down, you get a substantial amount of cargo space, which is perfect for family adventures. The car also features numerous storage compartments, including door pockets, a glove compartment, and center console storage. The 218d is a versatile option for everyday use and family trips.

The seating is comfortable, even for longer journeys. The driving position is good, with plenty of adjustment options to suit different drivers. The rear passengers enjoy generous legroom and headroom, making it a great option for families.

Interior Highlights:

• Seating: Comfortable and supportive seating for five passengers, with an optional third row to provide seven seats.
• Space: The interior is spacious, with plenty of room for passengers and cargo.
• Materials: High-quality materials and a premium feel throughout the cabin.
• Infotainment: The iDrive system is user-friendly and packed with features.

Technology and Features

Let's get into the tech! The 2017 BMW 218d Gran Tourer has a decent amount of tech for its time. You'll find the iDrive infotainment system, which controls everything from navigation and entertainment to vehicle settings. The system typically includes a central display screen, a rotary controller, and shortcut buttons, which are pretty simple to use. Bluetooth connectivity allows you to easily connect your phone for hands-free calls and audio streaming. Many models come with features like parking sensors, a rearview camera, and cruise control, making driving easier and safer. There might also be options for advanced driver-assistance systems. These features would enhance the overall driving experience and provide added safety. BMW's focus on user experience ensures the tech is intuitive and easy to integrate into your daily driving. The technology is designed to make your journey more enjoyable and convenient.

Key Tech Features:

• iDrive System: BMW's infotainment system, which manages navigation, entertainment, and vehicle settings.
• Connectivity: Bluetooth for hands-free calls and audio streaming.
• Driver-Assistance Systems: Depending on the trim, features like parking sensors, a rearview camera, and cruise control may be included.

Common Problems and Reliability

Okay, let's be real – no car is perfect. The 2017 BMW 218d Gran Tourer is generally reliable, but some common issues have been reported. Some owners have reported problems with the diesel particulate filter (DPF), which can clog up over time. Other potential issues may involve the EGR valve. Regular maintenance and proper driving habits can help minimize these issues. Make sure you keep up with your service schedule. If you're considering buying one, it's always a good idea to have a pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic to ensure the vehicle is in good condition.

Common Issues and Tips:

• Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF): This filter can become clogged. Regular highway driving can help prevent this issue.
• EGR Valve: Can also encounter problems and affect performance.
• Regular Maintenance: Adhere to the recommended service schedule to prevent issues and maintain the car's reliability.
• Pre-Purchase Inspection: Essential before buying a used model to identify any potential problems.

Fuel Efficiency and Running Costs

Let's talk about the important stuff – fuel efficiency and running costs. The 218d is known for its excellent fuel economy, making it a cost-effective choice for daily driving. The diesel engine is designed to maximize fuel efficiency, so you can expect to get great mileage, especially on the highway. Running costs will also include things like insurance, road tax, and servicing. The good fuel economy can help offset these expenses.

Fuel Efficiency and Cost Considerations:

• Fuel Economy: Impressive fuel economy, especially on the highway.
• Running Costs: Consider costs such as insurance, road tax, and servicing.

Value for Money and Final Thoughts

So, is the 2017 BMW 218d Gran Tourer worth it? Considering its practicality, fuel efficiency, and driving experience, it offers good value for money, especially in the used car market. It's a versatile vehicle that caters to families and individuals needing extra space without sacrificing the fun of driving a BMW. If you prioritize space, fuel economy, and a premium driving experience, this car is worth considering. The Gran Tourer delivers a well-rounded package.

Final Verdict:

• Pros: Fuel efficiency, practicality, comfortable ride, and engaging driving experience.
• Cons: Potential issues with the DPF and EGR valve, and it may not be as sporty as other BMW models.
• Overall: A great choice for families seeking a practical, efficient, and enjoyable driving experience.

That's it, guys! Hope this review helped you out. Happy car hunting!