Aesthetic Appeal and Performance: The 2024 BMW X2

The 2024 BMW X2 emerges as a visually striking upgrade over its more conservative X1 counterpart, offering a $1500 premium that seems like a worthwhile investment. The previous iteration of the BMW X2 faced a shorter production life due to lackluster sales, but the second-generation model is set to make a statement in dealer showrooms. North America, however, will exclusively feature the 241-hp xDrive28i and the 312-hp M35i xDrive, skipping the all-electric iX2 xDrive30 and other combustion-engine models available elsewhere.

Priced at $52,395, the X2 M35i, labeled as a "Sports Activity Coupe," stands as a mere $1500 more expensive than its mechanically identical X1 counterpart, offering a bolder design. The X2's hexagonal grille, optional night illumination, versatile wheelbase, wide track, and distinctive features contribute to its proportional appeal. The M designation signifies the sports pack, including a lowered suspension, blacked-out body panels, air deflectors, and special 20-inch wheels. Fully equipped, the X2 reaches just over $60,000.

Inside, the X2 boasts a tech-centric environment with a curved digital instrument panel display, a center touchscreen, and optional head-up display. The traditional iDrive controller makes way for a new layout on the center console, featuring the gear selector, cylindrical volume control, and the My Modes button, offering a broader range of driving modes. Aimed at younger buyers, driving modes like Expressive, Relax, and Digital Art (with a Digital Premium subscription) may feel more like marketing gimmicks.

The multimedia-rich interior includes 5G connectivity, video streaming, gaming (when stationary), and an overhead in-car camera for capturing images or videos while driving. Driver-assistance systems compensate for potential distractions, and Augmented View introduces graphic 3-D imaging, video navigation aids, and enhanced head-up display content.

On the road, the X2 M35i transforms into a true M Performance automobile, powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter engine producing 312 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque. Accelerating to 60 mph in an estimated 5.2 seconds, the X2 M35i showcases spirited performance. While not as quick as electric-SUV rivals, it maintains verve and vigor, reaching a top speed of 155 mph. The EPA combined rating of 26 mpg ensures efficient fuel consumption.

Equipped with firmer springs, a quicker steering ratio, enhanced brakes, and a dual-outlet exhaust, the X2 M35i prioritizes strong grip and premium comfort. While lacking rear-bias torque vectoring and oversteer-on-demand differential, it delivers steering precision, stability, and a balance between handling and comfort. For those seeking a subcompact luxury SUV with expressive style, enhanced features, and a marginal price difference, the 2024 BMW X2 stands out as a compelling choice over its X1 counterpart.
Specifications

2024 BMW X2 M35i
Vehicle Type: front-engine, all-wheel-drive, 5-passenger, 4-door wagon

PRICE
Base: $52,395

ENGINE
turbocharged and intercooled DOHC 16-valve Miller-cycle inline-4, aluminum block and head, port and direct fuel injection
Displacement: 122 in3, 1998 cm3
Power: 312 hp @ 6500 rpm
Torque: 295 lb-ft @ 2000 rpm

TRANSMISSION
7-speed dual-clutch automatic

DIMENSIONS
Wheelbase: 106.0 in
Length: 179.3 in
Width: 72.6 in
Height: 62.6 in
Passenger Volume, F/R: 51–52/43 ft3
CargoVolume, Behind F/R: 52/25 ft3
Curb Weight (C/Dest): 3900 lb

PERFORMANCE (C/D EST)
60 mph: 4.4 sec
100 mph: 11.7 sec
1/4-Mile: 13.1 sec
Top Speed: 130–155 mph

EPA FUEL ECONOMY
Combined/City/Highway: 26/23/32 mpg