The BMW X2 has been unveiled as the brand’s sportiest small crossover yet – designed to attract more younger buyers than the other six models already in the X range.
First seen as Concept X2 at the Paris Motor Show in 2016, the newcomer measures up at 4360mm long – 20mm shorter than its X1 sister.
At 1526mm it is also more than 70mm lower. Much of this is removed from the depth of the windows, giving the car a sportier look which is emphasised by a new-design version of BMW’s signature kidney grille – wider at the base than at the top, it adds to the car’s planted look.
The X2 does match its X1 sister in the 2670mm wheelbase – the two cars share the same platform used under the 2 Series Active Tourer and are being built alongside each other at Regensburg in Germany. With a short bonnet and rear overhang, the X2 promises plenty of interior space, including a 470-litre boot.
Initially, the X2 will be sold in a single version – the xDrive 20d. This is powered by a 2-litre four-cylinder turbocharged diesel engine of 190hp and 400Nm of torque, put through an all-wheel-drive transmission. A degree of off-road ability is added by this transmission with hill-descent control fitted as standard.
The 20d offers 7.7-second 0-62mph time while returning combined cycle fuel economy of 61.4mpg and CO2 emissions of 121g/km.
Three more variants will follow in 2018, all also 2-litre turbocharged models. The 20i petrol model will be on sale in front-wheel-drive form only, while there will be 18D diesel versions in both two and all-wheel drive formats.
BMW will offer four trim levels for its new SUV, in the familiar SE, Sport, M Sport and M Sport X grades. SE models sit on 17-inch wheels, all others on 19-inch wheels with 20-inch variants offered as options, while LED headlamps are standard on all bar the entry-level SE. all versions also get a 6.5-inch Touch Control Display with navigation system as standard, while the options list includes such niceties as a head-up display.
Dealers open order books for the car in mid-November, with the X2 xDrive 20D SE costing from £33,980.