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.

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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.

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.

 BMW X2 – Pricing & Specs

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