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New BMW X2 Combines Distinctive Design with Sporty Performance
With its unmistakable design and sporty, urban feel, the BMW X2 is billed as breaking new ground for the iconic German car brand as a unique and exciting addition to its X model range.
Slotting between the X1 and X3 SUVs, the X2 aims to be a more stylish option with youthful appeal – pitched to compete with models such as the Audi Q2, Volvo XC40 and Jaguar E-Pace. It shares its wheelbase with the X1, but is two centimetres shorter and seven centimetres lower, making it a more sleek offering.
Unlike many other cars, the X2 made its way from motor show concept to real-life vehicle virtually untouched. It features a slim glasshouse, a newly shaped kidney grille and BMW badges on the C-pillar – a hark back to the M1 supercar.
The X2 is offered in SE, Sport, M Sport and M Sport X trims, but from launch there will only be a single engine choice – a 2.0-litre diesel with 188bhp and 400Nm of torque, badged 20d. It's capable of 0-60mph in 7.5 seconds, while returning an official combined fuel economy figure of 61.4mpg – while mated to four-wheel drive.
According to BMW, more engines will be added later in the year – a lower-powered diesel with either front- or four-wheel drive, or a front-wheel drive petrol model. Sharing the UKL1 platform with the BMW X1 and the Mini Countryman means the X2 will be limited to four-cylinder engines, but there's the possibility of a hybrid powertrain in future.
Inside, there's the familiar iDrive infotainment system, paired as standard to a 6.5-inch display which can be upgraded to an 8.8-inch unit for an additional cost. The driver-focused cabin is broadly similar to that of the X1, and will offer a heads-up display and WiFi hotspot.
The X2 is priced from £33,980 at launch for the xDrive20d model.