Introduction
The compact SUV market is one that has been continuously growing for some time now – so much so that premium manufacturers are now jumping in on the act.
With Jaguar’s E-Pace and the Audi Q2 some of the most recent additions to the segment, BMW needed to respond – and it has with the new X2.
In what is now the sixth BMW SUV, the X2 sits on the same platform as the X1 but draws more detailing and design from the sportier side of the brand with its aggressive front styling and, as described by a BMW designer, hot hatch qualities.
But has BMW managed to work its magic on this model to put it at the forefront of the compact SUV segment? We take a look…
Performance
We tested the one and only engine available at launch for the X2, the xDrive20d diesel – which is a 2.0-litre four-cylinder unit producing 187bhp and 400Nm of torque, and is paired to an eight-speed automatic transmission and xDrive four-wheel drive.
It isn’t the punchiest engine in the world, but it is smooth, well-refined and has adequate performance for overtaking on motorways without running out of puff. The
returns aren’t too bad either, meaning low running costs. Three more engine options will be available by the end of 2018.
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Ride & Handling
As with many other BMW models, the setup is balanced, predictable and well-engineered, making driving the X2 simple, but not very thrilling. It has a positive turn-in that inspires confidence through the corners, with a lack of body roll helping with that. Feedback could be better though.
The ride is a highlight, as it manages to soak up almost all the bumps you’ll find on the road even when the surface gets quite poor. That means long cruises should be a doddle when combined with the consistent performance of the engine.
Interior & Equipment
Although you may think the X2’s small dimensions on the outside mean it is the same inside then you’ll be sorely mistaken. The only real limitation is for rear passengers who may not have as much headroom as preferred due to the coupe-like roof line. But for leg and shoulder room, the X2 offers plenty.
Storage-wise, the X2 has plenty as you get a 470-litre boot, which can grow to 1,355 litres with the rear seats folded down. Cubby holes and pockets are also plentiful, meaning it’s a good for families and people needing every inch of the car to be as useful as possible.
You do get a lot of bang for your buck in terms of equipment here, as standard features include an 8.8-inch touchscreen display with satellite navigation, automatic two-zone climate control and LED daytime running lights.
In the M Sport guise we tested, the X2 also came with a considerable amount more, including a full M Sport body kit, LED head and fog lights, M Sport suspension, a choice of 19- or 20-inch alloy wheels with run-flat tyres, heated front sports seats in micro-cloth upholstery, a multi-functional leather steering wheel and contrast stitching on the seats, floor mats and steering wheel.
Cost
Prices for the X2 start at a smidge under £30,000 – which put it at the top end of the premium compact SUV segment. With the M Sport trim and 20d engine, our test car cost £33,980, which isn’t exactly what you would call cheap, but that’s the price you pay for a premium product.
Running costs are quite good though, as economy of the car we tested is quoted at an achievable 61.4mpg and emits 121g/km CO2 – meaning road tax is on par with many of its rivals.
Verdict
As the latest addition to the X line-up, the X2 takes the same formula that many other BMWs have had before it and put it in a new body. That isn’t a bad thing, as the drive is familiar if you’ve owned a BMW before and everything is where you would expect it to be. It also comes with loads of space, stand-out looks and plenty of equipment. Even with the slightly higher starting price than its rivals, the X2 is a worthy competitor in the segment and should grab your attention if you’re after a new crossover.
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