It’s bigger and better than before and should be a hit with those who want a smaller, nimbler, and cheaper X6.
Now only six months from local introduction, the line-up will consist of the BMW X2 M35i xDrive performance model (with all-wheel drive), the BMW X2 sDrive18i mild hybrid, and the BMW X2 sDrive18d diesel variant.
Exterior design
With a pronounced sloping roofline, the new BMW X2 shows clear differentiation from the brand’s compact Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV), the BMW X1. The new BMW X2 has grown by 194 millimetres in length over its predecessor to 4 554 millimetres. It’s higher and wider too. Plus, its increased wheelbase and wider tracks benefit space in both the five seats and the boot. It has a generous load capacity of 560 to 1 470 litres, depending on the model variant.
The new X2 has a model-specific, upright front end. Its defining elements are striking LED front lights and an almost hexagonal BMW kidney grille, which can be specified with contour lighting.
An M Sport package will be standard on the 18i variant in South Africa and likewise brings aerodynamically optimised exterior details. Also on the options list is the M Sport package Pro, which adds extended M High-gloss Shadowline exterior trim, M lights Shadowline, an M rear spoiler and an M Sport braking system with red-painted callipers, among other features.
Premium ambience, enhanced functionality.
BMW says the interior of the new BMW X2 has a modern premium ambience with sporting touches. The slender instrument panel, housing the BMW Curved Display, is joined in the cabin by a “floating” armrest with integral control panel. In the front section of the centre console are two cup holders and a smartphone tray with wireless charging.
The newly developed seats are offered in the Veganza perforated variant and Vernasca leather with attractive quilting as alternatives to the standard cloth upholstery. Further improvements have been made to both acoustic comfort and occupant protection. Standard equipment now includes an airbag between the driver’s seat and front passenger seat.
The latest version of the BMW iDrive display and control/operation system featuring QuickSelect rapid-access tech is fitted in the new X2. Based on BMW Operating System 9, it is packaged together with the BMW Curved Display and BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant. BMW says it was carefully geared to operation using the touchscreen and natural language.
Two-zone automatic climate control, the navigation system BMW Maps and a Sport leather steering wheel all come as standard in the new BMW X2. Automatic tailgate operation, four USB-C ports and a 12V power socket in both the centre console and the boot are standard too. The number of driver assistance systems and digital services available has also increased significantly over the predecessor model.
BMW X2 M35i xDrive performance model available from launch
Its performance variant, available from the series launch, is set to bring the compact SAC’s dynamic nature even more prominently to the fore, according to BMW. The X2 M35i xDrive’s four-cylinder engine displaces 2.0-litres and produces a maximum output of 233 kW and 400 Nm. This model version can sprint to 100 km/h from rest in 5.4 seconds.
M-specific chassis tuning marries xDrive intelligent all-wheel drive to deliver sublime performance characteristics, BMW claims. “Its standard adaptive M suspension enhances both agility and long-distance comfort,” the automaker says.
Four-cylinder diesel and new mild-hybrid petrol
The four-cylinder diesel engine in the new BMW X2 sDrive18d has undergone an extensive upgrade, and now features low-friction pistons and a graphite coating for the piston skirts. To further reduce fuel consumption and emissions, BMW made improvements to the efficiency of the two-stage turbocharging and to the common-rail injection system and exhaust gas recirculation. Producing maximum output of 110 kW and peak torque of 360 Nm, the 2.0-litre engine can power the X2 sDrive18d from rest to 100 km/h in 8.9 seconds.
A three-cylinder petrol unit powers the new BMW X2 sDrive20i. Teaming up with a 48V mild hybrid system, the 1.5-litre, three-cylinder engine generates total maximum output of 125 kW and 280 Nm. It sprints from 0 to 100 km/h in 8.3 seconds.
All of the combustion engines available for the new BMW X2 link up (as standard) with a seven-speed Steptronic transmission with double clutch.
Sporty yet comfortable
The compact SAC’s chassis technology produces a harmonious balance between sporty, agile handling on the one hand and long-distance comfort on the other, BMW says. The body construction is said to reduce weight while increasing rigidity. Optional adaptive M suspension features frequency-selective damping, sport steering and a 15‑millimetre drop in ride height. Alloy wheels range in size from 18 to 21 inches.
Assistance systems
Standard features include the latest version of the front collision warning system, Cruise Control with brake function, and Lane Departure Warning with lane return. The Parking Assistant, including Reversing Assist Camera and Reversing Assistant, also forms part of the standard equipment roster.
The line-up of optional features includes the Steering and Lane Control Assistant, Active Cruise Control with Stop & Go function, Active Navigation, the exit warning function and the BMW Head-Up Display. Additional optional equipment include Surround View, Remote 3D View, BMW Drive Recorder, and Remote Theft Recorder functions.
BMW’s Group Plant Regensburg in Germany will produce the new X2.
