Review: The All-New BMW X2

In its sophomore outing, the BMW X2 emerges revamped and reinvigorated, boasting a complete transformation in power, design and dimensions. Here is Siya Mbaduli’s lowdown on the trailblazer of BMW’s Sports Active Coupe lineup.

Image: BMW

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BMW X2 BMW X2 M35i  Fast Facts:

• Price:  R1 223 935
• Engine: 2.0-litre twin-turbocharged four-cylinder engine
• Transmission: Steptronic DCT
• Power:  233 kW @ 5 750 r/min
• Torque:  400 N.m @ 2 000 r/min
• Driven wheels: 4WD
• Fuel consumption: 9.4 L/100 km 
• CO2 emissions: 178 g/km
• Rivals: Audi Q3 Sportback, Volvo XC40, Jaguar E-Pace 

BMW X2 sDrive 18i M Sport Fast Facts:

• Price:  R879 738
• Engine: 1.5-litre, 3-cylinder petrol engine 
• Transmission: Steptronic DCT
• Power:  115 kW @ 4 900 r/min
• Torque:  230 N.m @ 1 500 r/min
• Driven wheels: FWD
• Fuel consumption: 8.0 L/100 km 
• CO2 emissions: 153 g/km

What are we driving?

Inheriting its foundations from its younger kin, the X1, and its cousin, the Mini Countryman, the revamped BMW X2 returns with a bold, aggressive aesthetic inspired by its larger siblings, the X4 and X6. Despite its initial positioning between the X1 and X3, the X2 has undergone a significant growth spurt, now encroaching upon X4 territory. This latest iteration marks the most expansive X2 to roll off the production line, boasting a substantial increase in size. Stretching its dimensions by a notable 194 mm in length to reach 4 554 mm, widening by 21 mm to 1 845 mm, and towering 64 mm higher at 1 590 mm, it now commands attention with an extended wheelbase of 2 692 mm.

Image: BMW

Within the local lineup, two variants stand out. Leading the pack is the M35i, packing a punch with its 2.0-litre twin-turbocharged four-cylinder engine, churning out 221 kW and 400 N.m of torque, distributed to all four wheels. Teamed up with a seven-speed Steptronic dual-clutch transmission, it dashes from 0 to 100 km/h in 5.4 seconds. Meanwhile, the X2 sDrive18i opts for the brand’s turbocharged 1.5-litre, 3-cylinder petrol engine, delivering a respectable 115 kW of power and 230 N.m of torque. This configuration propels it from 0 to 100 km/h in 9.0 seconds, with a top speed of 213 km/h.

Related: BMW X2 – Pricing & Specs

Why is the BMW X2 Significant?

As previously mentioned, the larger X2 steps into the limelight to fill the void left by the delayed update of its X4 counterpart, scheduled for 2028. While eagerly awaited models like the new X3 and its sibling, the iX3 (also known as the Neue Klasse X), are on the horizon, the X4 is taking its time to debut post the X3’s facelift. In the interim, the X2 seizes the opportunity to shine. Accompanying its expanded dimensions is a surge in power from the previous generation, coupled with a more opulent interior and exterior. Notably, the BMW X2 M35i is strategically priced to allure consumers eyeing an X4. For perspective, the entry-level X4 starts at R1 187 894 (X4 xDrive20d), while the X4 xDrive20d M Sport variant commands R1 227 894.

What’s new on the BMW X2?

What’s new in the second-gen X2? Let’s start with the revamped powertrain. In the previous iteration, the BMW X2 sDrive18i delivered 103 kW of power @ 4 600 r/min and 220 N.m of torque @ 1 480 r/min. BMW has given it a boost, adding an extra 12 kW and 10 N.m of torque. Moving onto the M35i, the first-gen boasted 225 kW @ 5 000 r/min and 450 N.m of torque @ 1 750 r/min. Power’s been upped to 233 kW @ 5 750 r/min, with torque dipping slightly to 400 N.m @ 2 000 r/min.

Externally, the new X2 flaunts a sleek coupe silhouette, featuring LED headlights and an almost hexagonal BMW kidney grille, a new addition for the premium compact segment. Customers can even opt for the grille with BMW Iconic Glow contour lighting. M-specific touches, like the dual pairs of exhaust tailpipes integrated into the rear apron, add an extra dose of dynamism to the X2 M35i xDrive. Plus, an M Sport package comes standard on the 18i variant.

Image: BMW

Inside, it’s all about choice. The seats received an update, offering Veganza perforated variant and Vernasca leather with quilting as alternatives to the standard cloth upholstery. If you’re craving a sportier feel, you can opt for the sports seats. When it comes to tech, the new X2 packs a punch with a range of systems for automated driving and parking, along with the innovative digital services delivered by the new BMW iDrive with QuickSelect and BMW Operating System 9.

What does the BMW X2 cost?

• BMW X2 sDrive 18i M Sport – R879 738
• BMW X2 M35i – R1 223 935

What are the BMW X2 Rivals?

With an extensive list of rivals, ranging from the Alfa Romeo Tonale, Jaguar E-Pace, Lexus UX and Mercedes-Benz GLA. The Audi Q3 Sportback can hold its own against the X2. The BMW X2 sDrive 18i M Sport can go toe to toe with the Audi Q3 Sportback 35TFSI Black Edition, which currently costs R866 950. It produces 110 kW of power @ 5 000 r/min and 250 N.m of torque @ 1 500 r/min from a 1.4-litre engine that’s paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. Although priced slightly higher, the beefier RSQ3 Quattro can be paired against the M35i. The outgoing RSQ3 is priced at R1 307 600, it has a potent 2.0-litre powerplant that produces 294 kW @ 5 850 r/min and 480 N.m of torque @ 1 950 r/min.

What is the BMW X2 like to drive? 

Setting off from Hazendal Wine Estate towards Franschhoek, the morning drive commenced with the dynamic X2 M35i taking the lead. Within mere minutes, the distinctive blend of engine rumble and carefully crafted acoustics, known as Active Sound Design in BMW vehicles, filled the cabin. While the steering felt slightly soft in comfort mode, its adaptability across different drive modes was striking, altering the driving experience dramatically.

Image: BMW

The engine’s presence remained subtle yet discernible in normal driving modes, with a hint of exhilaration in sport mode, owing to meticulous engineering. Swift gear changes propelled the vehicle forward with the 2.0-litre engine, although its vigour tapered off at higher speeds, akin to the Mini Clubman JCW. Despite its weight, the M35i navigated corners with ease, maintaining a firm grip on the road and evenly distributing its mass. Contrasting with the M35i’s spirited demeanour, the sDrive18i embodied a more subdued character, reminiscent of an X1 in a different guise. Nonetheless, it offered a comfortable and pleasant driving experience. The upgraded operating system proved to be a significant improvement, showcasing enhanced user-friendliness compared to the previous BMW Operating System 8.5.

Verdict:

The 2024 BMW X2 emerges as a well-rounded contender in the premium crossover category, boasting a refreshed design that aligns strategically with market trends. With the X4 set for updates in four years, the X2’s forward-looking persona positions it as a fitting choice in the segment. Its enhanced driving dynamics and increased dimensions bode well for its market prospects, making it a model worth watching closely. 

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