The BMW 2 Series Active Tourer is an all-new model.

Say you like the small but versatile footprint of a hatchback like the Honda Fit, but want something a little larger and more premium. Perhaps the utility of a Mini Countryman is appealing, but you can't get past the quirky styling or interior. The 2016 BMW 2 Series Active Tourer could be your answer.

First, the Active Tourer shares little with the squat, rear-wheel-drive coupe that BMW also calls the 2 Series. The Active Tourer is instead a compact, front-wheel-drive four-door that's closer in mechanical identity to the latest Mini Cooper and the upcoming BMW 1 Series. It's a little longer than the Fiat 500L, shorter than the similarly styled Ford C-Max and lower than both. Even by the standards of BMW's finely sliced portfolio of wagons, small crossovers and the Active Tourer is a bit of an oddball.

Although BMW hasn't confirmed specifications for U.S.-bound models yet, we expect a turbocharged 1.5-liter three-cylinder engine to power the 218i base model. Generating 136 horsepower, the small power plant will pair with a standard six-speed manual or available six-speed automatic transmission. The 225i model will use a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder rated at 231 hp and an eight-speed automatic transmission. BMW says the 225i should accelerate from zero to 60 mph in about 6.8 seconds.

Befitting its shape, the Active Tourer should feature a handsome cabin with impressive flexibility. The rear seat slides fore and aft and folds down in a 40/20/40 configuration. A fold-flat front passenger seat is optional. BMW lists the Active Tourer's cargo capacity ranging from 16 cubic feet behind the second row to a maximum of 53 cubic feet (bear in mind these are based on European interior measurements, which differ from American standards). An available power tailgate can be further optioned with a hands-free opening feature that works when you swipe a foot under a sensor.