Rumors have been stirring about BMW 
building an X2 crossover since 2011, but we have yet to see it in the metal until 2015. The small SUV finally hit the streets a month ago and resurfaced again in November, on both occasions as heavily camouflaged prototypes.
Essentially a sleeker, coupe-like version of the X1, the X2 will compete against the likes of the Range Rover Evoque. It will also complete BMW’s lineup of X-badged SUVs, which will include no fewer than six nameplates. Naturally, the X2 will be part of a trio of coupe crossovers, which already includes the X6 and the X4.
The new crossover should share underpinnings with the second-generation X1, which rides on the same UKL platform found in the Mini Cooper and the BMW 2 Series Active Tourer. As a result, the X2 should also borrow the X1’s powertrains and cross the pond to the U.S. in similar configurations.
A launch date has yet to be announced, but word has it the crossover will be sold for the 2017 model year in the U.S. As a result, I expect it to be unveiled in the first half of 2016, most likely at the Geneva Motor Show. Until we find out more, let’s have a closer look at what we already know about the BMW X2.
Updated 11/06/2015: Our spy photographers caught the upcoming BMW X2 testing on the streets of Munich. The X2 will be offered in both front-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive versions, with an M version also being a possibility. BMW will offer both gasoline and diesel engines – borrowed from the X1, with a plug-in version set to arrive at a later date.
Continue reading to find out more about the 2017 BMW X2.
Spy Shots
November 6, 2016 – Next BMW X2 testing on the streets of Munich
Exterior
Although the prototype is camouflaged to the teeth, the exterior design of the X2 is far from being a mystery. Much like the X4 and the X6 are to the X3 and X5, respectively, the X2 will be a sportier, coupe version of the X1. Specifically, the X2 should be identical to the X1 from the front bumper toward the B-pillar and feature a sloping roofline and slightly revised rear fascia.
The X2 doesn’t have the X1’s quarter window, while the rear overhang is significantly shorter
A closer look at the spy shots reveals that the X2 doesn’t have the X1’s quarter window, while the rear overhang is significantly shorter. The wheelbase, on the other hand, appears to be about the same.
Since it will be based on the second-gen X1, the X2 will benefit from the crossover’s brand-new design language. The X1 borrows many of its styling cues from its bigger siblings, the X3 and X5, and the X2 will do the same. Look for an identical front fascia with a big twin-kidney grille and longer, sleeker headlamps. Down below, it will feature and larger air intakes for a more aggressive appearance.
Although camouflaged, the rear end provides a few hints as to how the X2 will differ from the X1. The bumper seems to be different, while both the tailgate and the rear windscreen are shorter. The prototype taillights have yet to be replaced by production units, but they should be similar to the X1’s.
Interior
The X2’s interior too should be similar to the X1 and get the latter’s newly designed dashboard, the “floating” infotainment display, and the refined A/C vents. Standard features includes a seven-speaker audio system, a multi-function, leather-wrapped steering wheel, and cruise control. The standard seats will come dressed in cloth, but customers will be able to select a leather upholstery from the options list. Other options will most likely include an 8.8-inch display, a 12-speaker Harman Kardon sound system, a panoramic moonroof, and many more.
Thanks to an identical wheelbase, the X2 should offer similar legroom in the rear, which has increased by up 2.6 inches in the second-gen X1. However, the sloping roofline will reduce should and headroom, as well as luggage space.
Drivetrain
Built on the same UKL platform as the X1, the X2 will get the same drivetrains consisting of gasoline three-cylinder, gasoline four-cylinder, and diesel four-cylinder engines. The crossover will be offered with both front-wheel and all-wheel drive.
In Europe, the base model should get a 1.5-liter three-cylinder gasoline unit rated at 136 horsepower. This engine will mate to a six-speed automatic and power FWD versions only. The second gasoline-powered mill will be the familiar 2.0-liter four-banger, likely to be sold with two power outputs. The sDrive20i and xDrive20i will have 192 horsepower, while the xDrive25i will benefit from 231 horses.
On the diesel front, the X2 will get a 2.0-liter four-pot generating 150 horsepower in the sDrive18d, 190 horses in the xDrive20d, and 231 horsepower in the xDrive 25d.
In the U.S., on the other hand, the X2 will arrive with only the 2.0-liter, four-cylinder gasoline engine. Output should sit at 228 horsepower and 258 pound-feet and travel to all four corners through an eight-speed automatic transmission and an AWD system. Expect the X2 xDrive28i to hit 60 mph in about 6.3 seconds on its way to a top speed of 130 mph.
Prices
It’s too early to talk about prices at this stage, but based on the fact that the X1 xDrive28i retails from $34,800 in the U.S., a similar X2 could fetch at least $37,000 before options.
Competitors
Range Rover Evoque
Currently Range Rover’s smallest crossover, the Evoque comes in both three- and five-door configurations, giving consumers both a sporty and practical version of essentially the same vehicle. Both models are powered by the 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine rated at 240 horsepower and 250 pound-feet of torque. Charging from 0 to 60 mph takes around 7.1 seconds, while top speed is limited at 135 mph. Pricing starts from $41,475 for the five-door and $46,675 for the three-door.
Find out more about the Range Rover Evoque here.
Conclusion
Though I’m no big fan of the X4 and the X6, which I find rather ugly and useless (albeit attractively powerful), the X2 has everything it needs to become an important member of BMW’s SUV lineup. Smaller than the X4 and X6, the X2 should also be significantly more affordable, which will attract new customers to BMW dealerships, especially enthusiasts who can’t afford the bigger SUVs and drivers who simply need a city crossover with sporty looks. With the X2, BMW’s circle of X-badged SUVs is finally complete. Unless BMW ventures into a new niche with the much rumored X7, that is.