BMW X2 review (2023 - )

BMW’s original X2, which debuted in 2018, was always somewhat of an oddball choice in this carmaker’s line-up. It neither looked much like an SUV, nor a coupe – as is typical from evenly-named BMW X models, such as the X4 and X6. Despite this, buyers still lapped it up, with almost 400,000 sold since its original introduction. 

BMW is now back with a new second-generation model, which is quite different to its predecessor. This new X2 is a far bigger car, growing by a significant 20cm in size, and it’s also now larger than the X1 – previously this wasn’t the case. 

This new X2 adopts a far more coupe-esque shape as well, helping to give it a bolder look compared to the car it replaces while introducing a range of new engines and importantly – for the first time – electric versions with the iX2. There are two models available, bringing an electric range of up to 283 miles, though more conventional petrol engines are available.
We had the chance to get behind the wheel of the tip-top petrol M35i version as well as the more powerful electric iX2. BMW UK has discontinued the entry-level trim levels, meaning there are only two versions available – M Sport or the ‘M Performance’ version, which is just the M35i. 

In terms of design, the new X2 adopts various cues from BMW’s newer models, including a large grille that has a cool textured pattern on the electric model. The grille surround can even light up as an optional extra, though whether you like this or not all comes down to personal preference. 

Moving inside, the new X2 adopts BMW’s latest cabin technology and is a significant development on the previous version, which was starting to show its age. There are too large digital screens called a Curved Display – one the main multimedia system and the other a digital instrument cluster. Both are laden with features, though it is a bit disappointing that some of the excellent usability of the previous iDrive system is gone in favour of the new touchscreen-heavy setup. 

There are four versions of the X2 available – two electric and two petrol. 

We’ll start with the petrol first, with an entry-level sDrive20i kicking off the line-up, using a 2.0-litre unit developing 168bhp and 280Nm of torque. Accelerating from 0-60mph takes 8.1 seconds, and it maxes out at 132mph. Above this sits the sporty M35i model, which has a 2.0-litre unit kicking out 296bhp and 400Nm of torque. Accelerating to 60mph takes just 5.2 seconds, with a top speed capped at 155mph. 

If you’re looking at the electric iX2, you can have the rear-wheel-drive eDrive20 or the four-wheel-drive xDrive30. The former produces 201bhp and 250Nm of torque, allowing for a 0-60mph time of 8.4 seconds and a 106mph top speed. The range-topping EV develops 309bhp and 494Nm of torque, equating to a 0-60mph time of 5.4 seconds and a top speed governed at 112mph.

We only drove the sportiest petrol and electric model and came away more impressed with the iX2 EV. Both feel similarly quick – and certainly aren’t lacking in terms of performance – but the smoother electric version is preferable to the sometimes coarse-feeling petrol, which even with its sports exhaust system, never sounds all that pleasant. 

Both X2s drive well, with their well-weighted steering equating to a more enjoyable driving experience if not quite so involving as other BMW SUVs in the past. We also have reservations about the ride quality with the X2, though the larger wheels fitted to our test cars did the ride no favours. 

This latest X2 is larger in all dimensions than its predecessor – being 19cm longer, 2cm wider and 6cm taller. The overall effect is that this new X2 is a whole lot more spacious than its predecessor, and makes for a far more substantial family car. 
Though the sloping roofline means it’s not quite as practical as the regular X1, there is still plenty of space across the interior, with two averagely-sized adults able to sit quite comfortably in the rear. The roof aerial, however, puts a small dent in the available headspace for the middle rear passenger, as does the optional panoramic glass roof. 

The boot is also much roomier than its predecessor, boasting 90 litres more than the old X2, and now measuring a maximum of 560 litres in its most practical form, though the mild-hybrid sDrive20i and electric iX2 aren’t quite as spacious.

If you’re looking to keep your running costs down, there’s a lot said for the electric iX2, especially if you can charge at home and make the most of cheaper electricity tariffs. With a 64.8kWh battery, which applies to both electric versions, it’s slightly smaller than many of its rivals. 

The knock-on effect of this is that the iX2’s electric range isn’t quite as impressive, with the more efficient eDrive20 model able to travel up to a claimed 284 miles, while the xDrive30 version has a maximum claimed electric range of 283 miles. The similarly-priced Audi Q4 e-tron Sportback can travel further on a charge. 

In terms of charging up the electric iX2, it boasts a maximum DC rapid charging speed of 130kW, allowing a 10 to 80 per cent charge to be completed in just 29 minutes if connected to the quickest chargers. It comes as standard with AC charging up to 11kW, though as an option this can be increased to 22kW. 

In terms of the standard petrol X2s, neither will be terribly inefficient, but they will be more expensive to run. BMW claims around 45mpg with the entry-level petrol and 36mpg for the sportier M35i. 

In terms of pricing, this new X2 is quite a lot more expensive than its predecessor. The standard petrol model starts from £40,515, with the M35i coming in at £49,340. It’s expensive to go down the electric route as well, with the cheapest iX2 model having a list price of £51,615, or £57,335 in the case of the top-spec model.

Optional extras on the X2 are fairly expensive as well, though the level of standard equipment is fairly comprehensive. Highlights include automatic climate control, Alcantara and leather-effect upholstery, heated front seats and the impressive Curved Display. With the M35i model, you predominantly pay for the increased performance though it does also come with larger 20-inch alloy wheels, the illuminated grille surround and an upgraded Harman Kardon sound system. 

This new BMW X2 is a far more rounded and coherent car than its predecessor, which always felt a bit lost in the German carmaker’s expansive line-up. Growing in size has made it a roomier and versatile car that could be used and enjoyed by families. 

The additionn of the new electric versions, which are expected to account for the bulk of sales, is a welcome addition, though the availability of petrol options is still there. Though the X2’s design won’t appeal to everyone, and it can be quite expensive, it’s a welcome addition to the coupe-styled SUV segment.