Overview
The all-new BMW X2 is an exception to the rule that two is more than one. Based on the same platform as the boxier X1, the subcompact X2 is the slightly less practical, albeit sportier-looking, version of BMW’s smallest SUV. The second-generation X2 wears an angrier smile and has as many exhaust tips as it does pistons. Both the 241-hp xDrive 28i and M35i xDrive use a turbocharged inline-four cylinder with a dual-clutch automatic transmission and all-wheel drive, but the M adds muscle with 312 horsepower, bigger brakes, and a higher top speed. It also comes with many M-powered blue, purple, and red trimmings that typically accompany BMW’s motorsport-fueled sub-brand. The two-rod, five-passenger X2 is expected to go on sale sometime in March, 2024.
What’s New for 2024?
The X2 begins its second generation this year, growing in size while taking on a sleeker coupe-like shape. The X2 now comes with all-wheel drive as standard equipment and a boost in horsepower from the X2’s revised powerplant, which gives it more attitude than before. The X2 will arrive in dealerships in March, 2024.
Pricing and Which One to Buy
The xDrive 28i comes with a ton of standard features, such as 19-inch wheels, a giant infotainment display, LED headlights, and active blind spot detection. While the base model doesn’t have as much horsepower as the wilder M35i xDrive, its smaller wheels and less aggressive engine tune will likely make it a more livable creature. An M Sport equipment package is available on the xDrive 28i, which adds M wheels, paddle shifters, an adaptive M suspension, and better brakes, but we expect the improvements of this new-gen X2 to shine the brightest on the more affordable base version.
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
The new X2 is powered by a revised version of the previous model’s turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-four engine bolted to a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. While the xDrive28i gets a bump in output over the previous generation X2, now crunching out a respectable 241 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque, the M35i xDrive is even stronger. With upgraded internals to weather the increase in performance, the M35i xDrive produces 312 horsepower. BMW claims the M-powered X2 is good for a launch to 60 mph in 5.2 seconds, but we expect it to do far better than that, considering the 302-hp 2019 X2 M35i we had tested previously managed the same feat in 4.5 seconds. Both versions of the X2 come standard with all-season tires, but the M35i xDrive gets larger 20-inch wheels. Both X2 models roll along with slightly wider tires than the outgoing model, adding to the new X2’s more aggressive look. Top speed is limited to 130 mph for both models while equipped with all-season rubber, but upgrading to performance summer rubber gives the M35i xDrive a 6-mph advantage into the danger zone with a top speed of 155 mph; the xDribve28i tops out at 149 mph. We’ll update this space with performance results once we’ve tested either X2.
Interior, Comfort, and Cargo
The inside of the new X2 looks like it was cut from a completely different bolt of cloth than the outgoing model. The old model’s piano black plastic surrounds and matte-black plastic buttons have all been trash-canned and replaced by a high-quality digital display screen. Passengers get more room in the X2 than they did before; BMW claims the larger dimensions of the X2 have wrought additional shoulder and elbow room, as well as a full inch of extra kneeroom for back seat passengers. The rear seats can be folded in a 40/20/40 split and can accommodate up to 51 cubic feet of cargo space while folded. Remote start and heated front seats and steering wheel are both optional.
Infotainment and Connectivity
Every X2 comes with BMW’s large curved instrument-panel display. The 10.25-inch portion of the display is the gauge cluster, showing speed and other driving info, while a 10.7-inch sister screen illustrates infotainment controls. The system has a plethora of configurability, arguably too many than necessary, but this gives every X2 wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capability. A wireless smartphone charger is standard on the M35i xDrive and available with the optional Convenience equipment package for the xDrive 28i. A powerful Harman Kardon sound system is available as part of the Premium equipment package, adding more thump in the X2s trunk should your playlist require it.
Safety and Driver-Assistance Features
A basic set of driver-assistance features, including automated emergency braking, comes standard, and BMW offers additional tech for a price. For more information about the X2’s crash-test results, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites. Key safety features include:
- Standard automated emergency braking with pedestrian detection
- Standard lane-departure warning
- Available adaptive cruise control
Warranty and Maintenance Coverage
When it comes to warranty coverage, the X2’s policies are average. BMW provides three years of included scheduled maintenance—a nice perk that Mercedes doesn’t offer. If you’re planning to pile on the miles, you might be better served by the Lexus NX or the Lincoln Corsair both of which offer powertrain protection for two years longer than the X2.
- Limited warranty covers four years or 50,000 miles
- Powertrain warranty covers four years or 50,000 miles
- Complimentary maintenance is covered for three years or 36,000 miles
As more information becomes available, we’ll update this story with more details about:
- Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG
