BMW’s X2, for most folk, is a pretty good entry-level gateway into the brand. Now, though, it’s even better than ever, with the second-gen BMW X2 rolling out, featuring updated styling and tech. Crucially, it’s bigger than the outgoing X2, so despite the more pronounced coupe design, it’ll have more luggage and passenger space. Priced from £40,515, the new X2 is longer, taller, wider, and sits higher on the road, with larger proportions compared to the BMW X1.
If petrol-only isn’t for you, the X2 can be spec’d in mild-hybrid trim too, pairing an efficient 1.5-litre inline-3 engine with a 48V hybrid system. The latter of which provides more power and it’ll function as a starter generator, improving efficiency and lowering emissions. Or, if you want a bit more power, the X2 M35i xDrive ditches that 48V hybrid unit in lieu of a 2.0-litre twin-turbo inline 4, generating in excess of 300hp and 400Nm of peak torque; not bad for a crossover.
More Power, Improved Interior, And Gaming (?)
BMW’s made a bunch more under-the-hood improvements elsewhere, too. There’s their newly revised 7-speed dual-clutch transmission, uprated front and rear axles, adaptive suspension, a near-actuator wheel slip limitation (makes the car more agile), improved brakes, alloy wheels, sports steering, and more. Dynamism aside, a redesigned and more tech-focused cabin ought to make this a great daily driver, such as the new curved twin displays on the dash.
BMW’s even partnered with a gaming company to let you stream and play games, while your X2 is stationary, of course. However, while the new X2 is great and all, the highlight of BMW’s recent announcement is no doubt the X2’s all-electric twin, the first-ever iX2. Once it launches in the UK, two variants will be made available; the eDrive20 and the xDrive30. The former will come with a front-axle electric motor, good for 204hp and 272 to 283 miles of range.
All-Electric Drive, Made More Accessible
Meanwhile, the all-wheel drive iX2 xDrive30 sports dual motors for a more potent mixture of 313hp and 494Nm, though for all that extra power, you’ll be compromising on electric range, dropping to 259 to 267 miles (WLTP). BMW’s been pretty clever with the charging system for this, too. To save on packaging, they’ve compacted most of the electric drive unit, the voltage transformer, and the charging systems into a single unit for faster and more efficient charging.
Pair that with a rapid 130kW DC fast charger, and you’ll have the battery topped up in under 30 minutes. It ought to be easier to manage in practice, with BMW optimising its driving aids and the built-in mapping software to allow the iX2 to pick routes that bring you closer to the all the nearby charging stations along the way. Compared to its peers, BMW’s been relatively slow to embrace EVs, but the iX2 should bring them that much closer to the competition.
