BMW has revealed the all-new, second-generation X2 coupe-SUV, which is related to the more pragmatic X1. This time around the X2 gains all-electric models for the first time - the iX2 will manage nearly 500 kilometres of zero-emissions driving range.
BMW iX2 formula follows pattern set by iX1
Launching in March 2024, the line-up for the X2 and iX2 range will include one mild-hybrid petrol engine, the M35i high-performance derivative and two versions of the electric iX2 as well.
Starting with the latter, the iX2 xDrive30 has a 313hp/494Nm twin-motor arrangement, although it should be pointed out that peak power output is during a time-limited boost phase - ordinarily, the iX2 xDrive30 delivers 272hp. Either way, it’s enough for the electric iX2 to go from 0-100km/h in just 5.6 seconds, and on to a limited top speed of 180km/h, which is impressive considering the vehicle weighs almost 2.1 tonnes.
Using a 64.7kWh net capacity battery, the iX2 xDrive30 can go up to 449km on a single charge officially. And, with a 130kW DC maximum charging rate, it’ll take just 29 minutes to get the battery’s condition from 10 to 80 per cent. On AC connections, 11kW capability allows the iX2’s battery to be completely recharged in 6.5 hours, while an optional 22kW upgrade will cut that time down if needs be.
Thanks to its lower price, the iX2 eDrive20 is likely to be more popular. It features a single - front-mounted - electric motor producing up to 204hp and 247Nm of torque. Expect a range of close to 500 kilometres.
Two petrol models, no diesel
BMW has confirmed that the diesel variants of the new X2 will not be sold in Ireland.
The 48-volt mild-hybrid X2 sDrive20i is probably a more interesting option anyway. It uses a 1.5-litre turbocharged three-cylinder petrol engine, augmented by a 14kW electric motor and battery pack. All working together, you get maximums of 170hp and 280Nm, with 6.0 litres/100km fuel consumption and 136g/km of CO2. The 0-100km/h run is done in 8.3 seconds.
If you want more performance than that, though, the only X2 which is quicker than the electric iX2 is the flagship M35i xDrive. Its 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine outputs 300hp and 400Nm, propelling the coupe-SUV from 0-100km/h in just 5.4 seconds and on to a limited top speed of 250km/h. Economy and CO2 emissions take a hit, though, as the all-wheel-drive X2 M35i consumes up to eight litres of fuel every 100km, while putting out as much as 181g/km on the official WLTP cycle.
All X2s with an engine use a seven-speed dual-clutch Steptronic automatic gearbox. Any model branded ‘sDrive’ is front-wheel drive, while the M35i is all-wheel drive.
Stronger coupe appearance than predecessor
In terms of aesthetics, the X2 looks completely different to the X1 SUV. Unlike some coupe spin-offs of regular models, the front-end design of the X2 is bespoke, with an alternative, centre-ridged bonnet and hexagonal kidney grilles for the radiators (in models with an internal combustion engine, of course). The X2 also has a much more pronounced ‘swoop’ to its roofline when compared to the first generation of the nameplate, which was always called a coupe by BMW but which looked more like a squat hatchback.
Inside, the X2 and iX2 gain the Curved Display arrangement of the instrument cluster and infotainment touchscreen, with the latest BMW Operating System 9 software running everything electronic.
The X2 has also grown in stature compared to the old car, in every conceivable exterior dimension - it is 193mm longer (4,554mm overall), 21mm wider (1,845mm), 64mm higher (1,590mm) and possessed of a wheelbase stretched by 22mm (2,692mm) as well.
BMW says this helps with rear passenger space, and it certainly improves the boot space. The M35i and sDrive18d both pack in 560 litres of cargo capacity with all seats in use, with that figure rising to 1,470 litres with the 40:20:40 split-folding rear bench tucked away. The iX2 is a little behind these numbers, with 525-1,400 litres, but the version with the smallest boot is the sDrive20i, because the 48-volt battery for its mild-hybrid system is stored in the back of the car. That means 515 litres with all seats in use, although its 1,400-litre ultimate capacity at least matches that of the iX2.
Irish pricing for the new BMW X2
At launch in Ireland next year, there will be four distinct variants of the new X2 to choose from. The X2 sDrive20i M Sport is priced from €55,350 and the M35i xDrive model is €79,780, while the electric iX2 starts at €58,080 for the eDrive20 M Sport, rising to €69,500 for the iX2 xDrive30 M Sport.