BMW 2 Series Active Tourer 218i Essential AT (2015) vs Nissan Leaf EV (2023)
A full spec-by-spec comparison of BMW 2 Series Active Tourer 218i Essential AT (2015) vs Nissan Leaf EV (2023) — engine, performance, dimensions, features and price, with the differences highlighted to help you decide.
| Specification | BMW 2 Series Active Tourer 218i Essential AT (2015) BMW ₱2,290,000 | Nissan Leaf EV (2023) Nissan ₱1,998,000 |
|---|---|---|
| Overview | ||
| Model Year | 2015 | 2023 |
| Warranty | Unlimited/2-years | 3-years/100,000km |
| Availability | Current | Current |
| Engine & Drivetrain | ||
| Engine Type | Inline-3 | Electric Motor |
| Displacement | 1499cc | — |
| Valvetrain | DOHC 12-valve | — |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | Hybrid / Electric |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Electric |
| Max Power | 136 PS @ 4500-6000 rpm | 150 PS |
| Max Torque | 220 NM @ 1250 rpm | 320 Nm |
| Transmission | 6-Speed A/T | Single Speed |
| Drivetrain | FWD | FWD |
| Body & Dimensions | ||
| Body Type | MPV | Hatchback |
| Segment | M | Hatchback |
| Construction | Unibody | Unibody |
| Doors | 5 | 5 |
| Seating Capacity | 2+3 | 2+3 |
| Length (mm) | 4342 | 4490 |
| Width (mm) | 1800 | 1788 |
| Height (mm) | 1586 | 1540 |
| Wheelbase (mm) | 2670 | 2700 |
| Curb Weight (kg) | 1435 | 1591 |
| Exterior Colors | — | White Pearl, Night Blue Metallic, Radiant Red, Gun Metallic |
| Chassis, Wheels & Brakes | ||
| Front Suspension | MacPherson Strut | MacPherson Strut w/ Coil Spring |
| Rear Suspension | Multi-Link | Torsion Beam |
| Front Wheels | 16-inch alloys | 16 |
| Rear Wheels | 16-inch alloys | 16 |
| Front Tires | 205/60/R16 | 205/55/R16 |
| Rear Tires | 205/60/R16 | 205/55/R16 |
| Front Brakes | Disc | Disc |
| Rear Brakes | Disc | Disc |
| Steering Type | Hydraulic | EPS |
| Steering Column | tilt | Tilt |
| Tire Pressure Monitoring | No | Yes |
| Differential Lock | No | No |
| Safety | ||
| Anti-lock Braking (ABS) | Yes | Yes |
| Electronic Brakeforce Distribution | Yes | Yes |
| Brake Assist | Yes | No |
| Parking Sensors | No | No |
| Stability Control | Yes | No |
| Traction Control | Yes | No |
| Vehicle Dynamic Control | No | Yes |
| Forward Collision Mitigation | No | No |
| Blind Spot Warning | No | Yes |
| Hill Start Assist | No | Yes |
| Hill Descent Control | No | No |
| Auto Stop/Start | No | No |
| Driver Airbag | No | No |
| Knee Airbag | No | No |
| Passenger Airbag | No | No |
| Front Curtain Airbags | No | No |
| Rear Curtain Airbags | No | No |
| Rear Side Airbags | No | No |
| Security Alarm | Yes | Yes |
| Door Locking | Central Locking | Central Locking |
| Engine Immobilizer | — | Yes |
| Comfort & Convenience | ||
| Air Conditioning | Manual Aircon | Automatic Climate Control |
| Rear A/C Vents | No | No |
| Seat Material | Fabric | Fabric |
| Parking Brake | Electronic | EPB |
| Key Type | Keyless Entry | Keyless Entry |
| Push-Button Start | No | No |
| Cruise Control | No | Yes |
| Multi-Info Display | Yes | Yes |
| Paddle Shifters | No | No |
| Reverse Camera | No | No |
| Auto Headlights | No | No |
| Power Windows | Yes | Yes |
| Power Seats | No | No |
| Remote Trunk Release | No | No |
| Eco Mode | No | No |
| Antenna | yes | yes |
| Infotainment & Audio | ||
| Touchscreen | No | Yes |
| Navigation | No | No |
| Bluetooth | Yes | Yes |
| Apple CarPlay | No | Yes |
| Android Auto | No | No |
| USB | Yes | Yes |
| AUX Input | Yes | No |
| AM/FM Radio | Yes | Yes |
| CD Player | Yes | No |
| DVD Player | No | No |
| MP3 Playback | Yes | No |
| iPod Support | No | No |
| SD Card Slot | No | No |
| Speakers | — | 6 |
| Lighting | ||
| Headlights | Halogen + Foglamps | LED |
| Fog Lights | Yes | Yes |
| Daytime Running Lights | — | Yes |
BMW 2 Series Active Tourer 218i Essential AT (2015) vs Nissan Leaf EV (2023): which should you buy?
For a Filipino buyer weighing cost, performance and everyday practicality, the 2023 Nissan Leaf EV edges out the 2015 BMW 2 Series Active Tourer 218i Essential AT in most key areas. The Leaf is priced at ₱1,998,000, roughly ₱292,000 cheaper than the BMW’s ₱2,290,000, and it comes with a longer warranty of 3 years or 100,000 km versus the BMW’s unlimited/2‑year coverage. Power‑wise, the Leaf’s electric motor delivers 150 PS and 320 Nm of torque, out‑matching the BMW’s 136 PS and 220 Nm, while the single‑speed drivetrain offers instant torque for city driving. Both models are front‑wheel‑drive, five‑door MPVs with 2+3 seating, but the Leaf is slightly larger (4,490 mm vs 4,342 mm), giving a bit more interior room. The BMW’s turbocharged 1.5‑L inline‑3 engine may appeal to those who prefer traditional gasoline feel, yet it carries higher fuel costs and a shorter warranty. Overall, the Leaf is the better choice for budget‑ conscious commuters, eco‑focused drivers, and anyone valuing lower running costs and a stronger warranty, while the BMW may only suit enthusiasts who specifically want a gasoline‑powered compact MPV despite the higher price.
Frequently asked questions
Which model is cheaper?
The Nissan Leaf EV costs ₱1,998,000, which is about ₱292,000 less than the BMW 2 Series Active Tourer’s price of ₱2,290,000.
Which vehicle has more power?
The Leaf produces 150 PS and 320 Nm of torque, surpassing the BMW’s 136 PS and 220 Nm.
What are the warranty differences?
The Leaf offers a 3‑year/100,000 km warranty, while the BMW provides an unlimited/2‑year warranty.
Is one more practical for daily commuting?
Both have five doors and 2+3 seating, but the Leaf’s lower price, higher torque, longer warranty and zero‑fuel operation make it more practical for everyday city commuting in the Philippines.