We haven’t had the X2 for quite a while now (it was sold very briefly a few years ago), but BMW has already released images and details of the second generation of its Sports Activity Coupe (SAC).
Targeted at the premium compact market for a worldwide launch in March 2024, the X2 will come in both petrol, diesel, and a full-electric iX2 variant.
The X2’s taut, muscular aesthetic sets it apart from the compact X1, measuring 4,554mm long, 1,845mm wide, and 1,590mm tall.
A longer wheelbase and a wider track compared to the first generation improves cabin space, too, with a maximum load capacity of 560L to 1,470L depending on the model variant of the X2 (the iX2 has between 525L to 1,400L of boot space).
The front fascia of the X2 is defined by its LED headlamps and an almost hexagonal BMW kidney grille, which can be specified as an option with “BMW Iconic Glow” contour lighting.
Adaptive LED headlights with a non-dazzling matrix high beam are also optional. The roofline has the signature, coupe-like silhouette, while flared wheel arches and muscular shoulders complete the athletic stance. The back end features a Gurney-style spoiler and an eye-catching rear apron.
The M35i xDrive variant includes M-specific design features such as two pairs of exhaust tailpipes integrated into the rear apron, but an M Sport package can be optioned for all model variants including the iX2.
An M Sport Package Pro adds extended M high-gloss “Shadowline” exterior trim and lights, an M rear spoiler, and an M Sport braking system with red calipers.
No less than two solid and 11 metallic paint finishes are available for the X2, including “Fire Red” and two “Frozen” shades.
BMW’s familiar cockpit design has been jazzed up with a slender instrument panel with a curved display and a floating armrest with an integral control panel. The center console houses two cupholders and a smartphone tray with indirect illumination and wireless charging.
The seats can be specced with a Veganza perforated variant or quilted Vernasca leather as an upgrade to the standard cloth upholstery. Customers can also specify sports seats, electric seat adjustment, lumbar support, and even a massage function. An “interaction” airbag between the driver’s seat and the front passenger seat is standard.
Also standard are dual-zone auto climate control, a sport leather steering wheel, automatic tailgate operation, four USB-C ports, and a 12V power socket in both the center console and the boot.
The options list is long and includes a mirror package, steering wheel heating, a Harman Kardon sound system, a panoramic glass sunroof, and an electrically operated trailer tow hitch.
The iX2 uses two drive units—one at the front axle and one at the rear—to generate a total system output of 230kW (313hp) including a temporary boost. The total system torque is 494Nm.
Claimed 0-100km/h acceleration is a scant 5.6 seconds, with a top speed of 180km/h. The range is from 417km to 449km in the Worldwide Harmonized Light Vehicle Test Procedure (WLTP) from its 64.7kWh battery.
Performance-minded enthusiasts will look forward to the M35i xDrive and its 300hp, 2,0-liter in-line-four. It does the 0-100km/h sprint in 5.4 seconds while looking very flashy with M-specific bits like the spoiler, the mirrors, the front splitter, and the 20-inch wheels.
An adaptive M suspension is standard, and you can also order the optional 19-inch M compound brakes with perforated rotors. The cockpit gets an M-specific steering wheel, shift paddles, and Alcantara trim on the dashboard and the doors. M Sport seats with backlit M logos are an option.
If all of this is too much, the X2 also has some tamer variants to choose from.
The sDrive20i mild hybrid is powered by a 1.5-liter three-banger rated at 170hp, complemented by an integrated electric motor rated at 14kW (19hp). A 150hp, four-cylinder diesel is also present in the X2 sDrive18d.
All ICE variants use a seven-speed, double-clutch Steptronic transmission. A second full-electric variant and more ICE options will also supposedly be offered after the initial launch.
Handling is said to be better than the predecessor’s, thanks to increased rigidity, lower weight, longer wheelbase, and wider track. Near-actuator wheel slip limitation is standard equipment to improve traction and directional stability, while other new features include an integrated braking system and extra, lift-related damping at the front axle.
The optional adaptive M suspension features frequency-selective damping with sport steering and a 15mm drop in ride height. Wheel sizes range from 17 to 21 inches.
As expected, driver-assistance systems are aplenty in the X2, including front collision warning, cruise control with brake function, speed limit info, lane departure warning with lane-keeping, Parking Assist with a reversing camera, and reversing assistant.
Optional driver-assistance features include adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go functionality, a heads-up display, a 360° camera, active navigation, a drive recorder, and a remote theft recorder.
Finally, the X2 gets the latest version of BMW iDrive and a control/operation system using QuickSelect technology.
Based on BMW Operating System 9, the technology has been designed to seamlessly work with the Curved Display and the Personal Assistant using the touchscreen and the voice commands. An eSIM for cellular connectivity, navigation, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto comes standard.
Optional features like music and video streaming, gaming, and augmented view for the built-in navigation are available via the ConnectedDrive upgrades.
We have no word yet if this latest version of the X2 will make it to our shores, but we suspect more than a few buyers would opt for this comely crossover—sorry, “SAC”—if it did.
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