The BMW X2 is a compact crossover that combines the practicality of an SUV with the sportiness of a coupe. The first generation of the X2 was launched in 2018 and offered a distinctive design and dynamic driving experience. Now, BMW has unveiled the second generation of the X2, which brings significant improvements in terms of size, style, technology, and performance. Moreover, the new X2 also introduces a fully electric variant, the iX2, which expands BMW’s portfolio of zero-emission vehicles.
The new BMW X2 has grown in all dimensions compared to its predecessor. It is now 194 mm longer, 21 mm wider, and 64 mm taller, with a wheelbase that has increased by 92 mm. These changes result in more space for the passengers and the luggage, as well as a more imposing presence on the road. Depending on the model version, the new X2 has a maximum load capacity of 560 to 1,470 litres. The BMW iX2 provides 525 to 1,400 litres.
The new X2 also has a more pronounced coupe silhouette, with a roofline that flows smoothly into the rear end. The design is expressive and dynamic, with striking LED headlights and an almost hexagonal kidney grille that can be optionally illuminated with BMW Iconic Glow. The rear end features slim LED taillights and a sporty diffuser.
The new BMW X2 sDrive20i is powered by a three-cylinder petrol engine from the most recent modular generation of the Efficient Dynamics engine family (WLTP cycle figures: -; NEDC cycle figures: -); fuel economy combined: 6.5 – 6.0 liters/100 km [43.5 – 47.1 mpg imp]; CO2 emissions combined: 148 – 136 g/km). The 1.5-liter engine produces a maximum output of 125 kW/170 hp when working with the 48V mild hybrid system (produced by the combination of the combustion engine with up to 115 kW/156 hp and the integrated electric motor with up to 14 kW/19 hp).
The new BMW X2 sDrive18d’s four-cylinder diesel engine has also undergone significant improvements, with combined fuel consumption of 5.5 to 5.1 litres per 100 km (51.4 to 55.4 mpg imp), as well as combined CO2 emissions of 145 to 133 g/km (WLTP cycle; NEDC cycle figures: -). A maximum of 110 kW/150 horsepower is produced by it. A seven-speed Steptronic gearbox with double clutch is included with every combustion engine offered for the 2019 BMW X2 as standard equipment.
The BMW X2 M35i xDrive performance model will already be available from launch. The new BMW X2 M35i xDrive is an enticing offering with its recognisable M appearance and handling qualities. The maximum power of its 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine in Europe is 221 kW/300 hp (233 kW/317 hp in the USA and other regions).
The electric range is represented by the iX2, which is based on the same platform as the X2 but has some specific features to enhance its efficiency and aerodynamics. The iX2 has a closed-off kidney grille, a fully sealed underbody, and a smooth rear diffuser. It also has a lower drag coefficient of 0.25 compared to the X2’s 0.27. The iX2 will be initially offered as the iX2 xDrive30, which has two electric motors that produce a combined output of 230 kW (312 hp) and 494 Nm (364 lb-ft) of torque. It can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 5.6 seconds and has a top speed of 180 km/h (112 mph). It has a battery pack with a usable capacity of 64.8 kWh, which enables a range of up to 449 km (279 miles) according to the WLTP cycle. The battery can be charged at up to 11 kW using an AC charger or at up to 150 kW using a DC fast charger.
The new BMW X2 and iX2 also offer a high level of technology and connectivity features, such as the new BMW iDrive system with QuickSelect and BMW Operating System 9. This system includes a curved display that combines a 12-inch digital instrument cluster and a 14-inch touchscreen infotainment system. It also supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, over-the-air updates, and a range of digital services, such as BMW Digital Premium, which allows streaming music, videos, and games to the central display. The iX2 also has an interior camera for taking selfies. In addition, the new X2 and iX2 are equipped with various driver assistance systems, such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, parking assistant, surround-view cameras, and reversing assistant.
Prior to its March 2024 market launch, BMW will host the iX2’s public debut at the Japan Mobility Show later this month. It will be put together in Germany at the Regensburg factory, which also creates the iX1. Although the price has not yet been disclosed, we can expect it to be more expensive than the current X2, which starts at €46,400 in its home market.
The new X2 and iX2 are part of BMW’s strategy to accelerate the transition to electric mobility and to improve the sustainability of its vehicles throughout their lifecycle.
