HIGHS
- Two perky turbo engine options
- More attitude in its design than the X1
- Impressive tech on-board
LOWS
- Less practical than the X1
- Steering feedback is limited
- Some infotainment menus are overly complex
VERDICT
The more expressive sibling to the staid X1 SUV, the X2's funky styling stands out and calls attention to its fun-to-drive nature.
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.
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.
Pricing and Which One to Buy
The price of the 2024 BMW X2 starts at $42,995 and goes up to $52,395 depending on the trim and options.
| Model | Price |
|---|---|
| xDrive28i | $42,995 |
| M35i xDrive | $52,395 |
The xDrive28i comes with a ton of standard features, such as 19-inch wheels, a giant infotainment display, LED headlights, and active blind spot detection. But the X2's extroverted styling begs for maximum performance, and the M35i trim boosts horsepower to 312 ponies and brings with it even racier styling elements. Its price is much higher than the base trim, so we'd go light on options to avoid breaking the bank. We would, however, suggest springing for the M Sport seats, which are wrapped in a combination of leather and faux-suede.
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
The X2 xDrive28i is powered by a 241-hp turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-four engine bolted to a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, but the M35i xDrive is the hot-rod X2. With upgraded engine internals and extra boost pressure, the turbo four produces 312 horsepower in the M35i. Both versions of the X2 come standard with all-season tires, but the M35i xDrive gets larger 20-inch wheels. Top speed is limited to 130 mph for both models while equipped with all-season rubber, but upgrading to performance summer rubber increases the M35i xDrive's top speed to 155 mph. Cornering grip is plentiful and the X2's steering is precise, but it feels heavy and is light on feedback. Still, the X2 is fun to drive, especially in M35i form.
0–60-MPH Times
BMW claims the M35i xDrive is good for a launch to 60 mph in 5.2 seconds. After test-driving it in Europe, we think it can do far better than that, and estimate it will hit 60 mph in just 4.4 seconds. We haven't driven the xDrive28i yet, but the equivalent X1 model managed to hit 60 mph in 5.4 seconds at our test track; we think the X2 xDrive28i will offer similar performance.