BMW X2: One for the passengers

What is it?

The BMW Sports Activity Coupe has spread its wings with three latest-generation variants, which includes the first fully electric iX2 and X2 M35i xDrive performance variant.

Entry level is taken care of by the X2 xDrive20i, which comes with a powerful, yet economical Twin Power turbocharged petrol engine.

Bigger in all dimensions, including wheelbase, track and boot space, passengers and their belongings are the beneficiaries here.

What’s it cost?

Pricing starts at $75,900 for the X2 xDrive20i, jumping to $85,700 for the iX2 xDrive30 electric vehicle and tops out at $92,900 for the X2 M35i xDrive petrol performance model. 

A second electric version, the iX2 xDrive20 is expected by the end of the year and will carry a ticket price of $82,900.

All prices exclude on-road costs.

On test was the all-wheel drive X2 xDrive20i with an enhancement pack adding $4700.

The pack consists of metallic paint (in this case black), panoramic sunroof, Harman Kardon surround sound, heated steering wheel and front lumbar support with massage function.

The tester rolled on 20-inch Y-spoke two-colour alloy wheels.

Visually, the new BMW X2 follows a distinctive design, making the coupe stand out from its cousin X1 Sports Activity Vehicle.

For example, the upright front the presents an introduction full of confidence.

Striking LED headlights flank the twin almost vertical hexagonal grilles with their integrated Iconic Glow contour lighting.

The coupe-style roofline slides smoothly all the way to the rear, where flared wheel arches and broad shoulders make a bold appearance. 

Horizontal lines of the rear-light set-up, spoiler and stand-out apron can be a little messy.

Additions are cost options of aerodynamic M Sport exterior details.

Buyers can choose from a single solid White Alpine paint or a list of metallic finishes. 

The latest BMW iDrive display and control/operation system, featuring QuickSelect, is standard on the X2 and accessed through the BMW Curved Display and Intelligent Personal Assistant using the touchscreen and voice activation by calling up ‘Hey, BMW’.

A windscreen head-up display can be configured to give a good deal of driving info.

BMW Digital Premium means owners can make use of any apps available in their country by subscription.

The optional package also covers data usage for all services and apps from BMW ConnectedDrive, including music and games.

Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are also on the list.

The test car featured a quality Harman Kardon surround sound system via the X2 Enhancement Package.

Standard fitment includes Driving Assistant Professional, which includes steering and lane control, active cruise control, stop-go engine system, blind spot monitor and Parking Assistant Plus with surround camera view with guidelines.

Windscreen head-up display allows the driver to minimise lack of concentration on the road ahead. 

All grades are covered by BMW’s five-year unlimited kilometre warranty.

What’s it go like?

Sporty touches extend to the cabin, with newly developed seating clothed in Veganza, a leather alternative made from recycled plant material, sculpted to hold the body firmly, yet comfortably in periods of spirited driving.

The M Sport leather steering wheel garnered praise from more than one driver. 

Equipped with heating and electric adjustment with memory function, customers can also specify lumbar support with memory.

Dual zone automatic climate control air-con comes as standard across the range.

The tailgate is powered and fully automatic, providing access to a boot capable of carrying loads of between 560 and 1470 litres, depending on model.

Convenience extends to four USB-C ports and 12V power socket in the centre console and boot.

The slightly curved dashboard is angled towards the driver and is home to 10.7-inch and 10.25-inch touchscreen and instrument display.

A floating centre console houses the engine start/stop button and transmission shift, in front of which twin cup holders and a smartphone charging holster with ambient strip light.

The BMW X2 xDrive20i was powered by a 2.0-litre TwinPower turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine mated with a seven-speed Steptronic, double-clutch automatic transmission and all-wheel drive.

Maximum power produced is 150kW, maximum torque 300Nm.

The maker claims a combined urban/highway consumption of 7.2L/100km on premium unleaded fuel.

The test vehicle recorded 9.3L/100km in the city and suburbs and 4.7L/100km on motorway cruising.

With 300Nm of torque on tap from a low 1450 rpm, from its turbocharged engine the X2 xDrive20i, according to the maker, will hit 100km/h from rest in 7.4 seconds.

However, the TwinPower set-up took its time getting off the mark.

Once in full stride, the 2.0-litre motor chimes in with a full baritone backing, thanks to some volume from the audio speakers.  

The chassis technology was far more on top of things, producing a fine balance between agility and comfort.

The compact has lost weight, while gaining body rigidity.

Ride has been ironed out with a long wheelbase and wider track than its predecessor.

Wheel slip limitation is standard across the range, with benefit to traction and directional stability.

An integrated braking system tends to be a bit offhand (off-foot?) sharp if not careful.

The adaptive M suspension features selective damping, sport steering and a 15mm lowering of ride height.

What we like?

• Bigger in all dimensions
• Distinctive standout design
• Improved ride quality
• Voice activation by calling ‘Hey, BMW’
• Leather alternative made from recycled plant material
• M Sport leather steering wheel

What we don’t like?

• Slow out of the gates
• Apps available by subscription
• Apple CarPlay and Android Auto covered by subscription
• Braking sharp if not careful

The bottom line?

The BMW Sports Activity Coupe is out to further cement its spot in the compact SUV pantheon with the second generation of the X2.

 

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