The primary BMW X2 didn’t really fit the mould. For starters, it was smaller than the X1, despite occupying a bigger number in BMW’s model hierarchy.
In BMW’s world, where the X4 is a coupe version of the X3 and the X6 is a coupe version of the X5, the X2 was more like a chubby version of the 1 Series hatchback and never a sleeker alternative to the mightily popular X1 SUV.
For the second generation, the brand new X2 is visually a much stronger relation to the X1. It shares a well-recognized imposing front end, functional interior and powertrains, with the rear-end providing the foremost difference.
That’s right. BMW has now aligned the X2 properly against the X1, so it has a sloping roofline and more athletic proportions.
While these pricier coupes only sell a fraction of the volumes their SUV counterparts achieve, there’s undeniably a growing trend towards this bodystyle. Peugeot has just redesigned its popular 3008 with a sleeker silhouette.
This review is centred on the electrical iX2, which is obtainable with two powertrain options. There’s the single-motor eDrive 20 and the twin-motor xDrive30, similar to the iX1.
The eDrive20 has each a lower list price and longer range. You possibly can expect around 230 miles from the cars 65kWh battery – the WLTP figure is 283 miles. Performance is adequate too, with 0-62mph taking 8.6 seconds.
Stepping as much as the xDrive30 delivers a more thrilling experience. It’s a really rapid automotive, with effortless acceleration. The all-wheel-drive configuration delivers enhanced grip and more confidence in less grippy conditions, but it surely does come on the expense of range. In colder weather, our testing revealed a sensible range of about 200 miles. The official range is 267 miles.
The iX2 is supposed to be a sportier and more driver focused vehicle, compared to the iX1. It’s an enjoyable automotive to drive, especially in twin-motor guise. The steering is lighter than we’d expected, giving a more agile but less relaxed feel.
At higher speeds the iX2 may be very refined with its body providing enhanced aerodynamics and fewer wind noise. Ride quality impressed too, even on out test automotive’s 20-inch wheels, the iX2 isolates occupants from the worst road surfaces.
Pricing starts at £51,615, for the eDrive20, rising to £57,445 for the xDrive30, making the iX2 a competitor for the Audi Q4 e-tron Sportback, Genesis GV60, Polestar 2 and Volvo EC40. Only the M Sport trim level is offered, currently.
It means the iX2 is priced keenly against its principal pool of rivals with only the Polestar 2 offering a greater value proposition.
With BMW’s exceptionally high level of construct quality, the inside is befitting of the iX2’s premium price tag. It’s a cushty and well design cabin with driving position, supportive seats and a formidable level of kit.
A large panoramic screen dominates the iX2’s interior, providing all of the instrumentation and infotainment functions on board. There are only a few physical switches, with the touchscreen portion of the display used to command key functions and settings. Drivers can even use voice commands to instruct the system.
All iX2s include parking sensors, a reversing camera and parking assistant, the latter of which might assist the driving force with parking manoeuvres. A 360-degree surround view camera is optionally available and features a built-in dashcam feature.
You may think that taking an iX1 and cutting a bit off the back is usually going to affect practicality, but it surely’s not quite that simple. The iX2 has a totally different body and is a little bit longer, meaning it’s a spacious automotive – actually more so than its predecessor.
Boot volume, measured to the highest of the rear seats is definitely larger than an iX1 at 525 litres vs 490 litres.
Interior space can be more generous than before, although there’s a little bit less headroom than in an iX1. For family automotive duties, the iX2 will fit the bill well.
This Article First Appeared At www.am-online.com
