2023 BMW X2- Overview
Although it’s essentially a BMW X1 SUV underneath, the 2023 X2 has its distinct look, and its special M35i edition boasts performance that blows its boxy sibling out of the water.
The cabin of the X2 is cramped and less practical than that of the X1, while rivals such as the Mercedes-Benz GLB-class and the Volvo XC40 provide more luggage and passenger room.
However, the X2 is more enjoyable to drive than those SUVs. All X2 variants are equipped with a turbocharged four-cylinder engine that produces 228 or 302 horsepower, the latter of which is capable of propelling the X2 to 60 mph in just 4.6 seconds.
The X2’s handling is razor-sharp, and its demeanor is tailor-made for driving fanatics.
Exterior Design
The BMW X2 exudes strong hot hatchback vibes with its quick acceleration and positive handling qualities. Its athletic design and superb driving performance are among our favorites.
BMW provides the X2 M35i xDrive for individuals who seek greater power and performance.
The X2’s disadvantage is that it sacrifices comfort and silence, especially when fitted with larger wheels.
Interior Design
While the interior of the X2 isn’t as expressive as the outside, it is well-equipped and constructed.
The driving posture is excellent, and the driver has easy access to all of the X2’s functions. Although rear-seat headroom is limited, passenger space should be enough for most passengers.
In a variety of colors, BMW provides both imitation and genuine leather. The X2 isn’t as practical as the squared-off X1 because of its shapelier backside, but it’s on par with raked-roof rivals.
We accommodated five carry-on luggage behind the back seat and 15 with the bench folded in the X1, while the X1 could only fit seven and 19, respectively.
BMW’s sophisticated iDrive software works on an 8.8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with navigation.
BMW includes a controller knob on the center console if you choose not to use a touchscreen. A head-up display is included in the Premium package.
Apple CarPlay is standard equipment. However, Android Auto is not.
The traditional seven-speaker audio system will suffice for casual listeners, but audiophiles can upgrade to a Harman/Kardon premium sound system for an additional fee.
Safety Features
A basic set of driver-assistance systems comes standard, including automated emergency braking, and BMW offers optional technology for a fee. The following are important safety features:
- Pedestrian recognition and standard autonomous emergency braking
- A standard lane-departure warning is provided.
- Adaptive cruise control is an available feature.
Engine Specs & Performance
The X2 & the X1 come with the same standard powerplant. However, it has a turbocharged four-cylinder engine with 228 horsepower, an eight-speed automated transmission, and front-wheel drive.
This model is known as the sDrive28i by BMW. The xDrive28i will cost you $2000 extra if you want an all-wheel drive.
The base engine is a joy to drive: it’s eager to rev, silky smooth, and powerful. The X2 xDrive28i clocked in at 6.4 seconds to 60 mph, 0.1 sec slower than the X1 xDrive28i & Volvo XC40 T5.
The Mercedes-Benz GLA250, meanwhile, is even faster, clocking in at 5.8 seconds. If that’s still not fast enough, the M35i could be the answer.
The engine in this high-performance X2 has been tweaked to produce 302 horsepower. That equates to a 4.6-second sprint to 60 mph.
The X2’s ride is rough, especially when equipped with the sports suspension. As a result, passengers will notice every flaw in their seats when traveling over bumpy roads.
However, a high level of agility is the price to pay. The X2 is a thrill to pitch into fast bends, and its reliable nature rewards the driver.
The X2 isn’t the most fuel-efficient vehicle in its class, but it’s still very efficient. Front-drive cars should get up to 32 mpg on the interstate, while all-wheel-drive X2s should get up to 31 mpg.
However, in our tests, the X2 outperformed itself, achieving 36 mpg on a 200-mile interstate route. In the all-wheel-drive X1 and the XC40 T5, we only got 29 mpg.
