The new, larger BMW X2 has been unveiled in X2 M35i and fully electric iX2 guises, though the Bavarian firm says one of those is not on the cards for South Africa…

Meet the new BMW X2, the Munich-based firm’s 2nd stab at an X1-based coupé-style crossover.

BMW Group South Africa says the Regensburg-built newcomer will be available locally as early as March 2024, though interestingly adds the fresh-faced fully electric iX2 variant “will not be offered in South Africa”. The flagship X2 M35i xDrive, though, is likely to come to Mzansi, along with the likewise petrol-powered X2 sDrive18i and perhaps also the oil-burning X2 sDrive18d.

BMW says the X2 M35i (left) is coming to SA but that the iX2 xDrive30 (right) isn’t…

Compared with the original F39-series X2, the new U10-generation version is noticeably larger. In fact, it’s grown in length by a considerable 194 mm (now measuring 4 554 mm from snout to rump), while also gaining 21 mm in width (to 1 845 mm) and 64 mm in height (to 1 590 mm). Furthermore, thanks to a longer (2692 mm) wheelbase and wider tracks, BMW claims there is more passenger room inside and extra luggage space, too.

While you may notice the new BMW X2’s almost-hexagonal kidney grille (which can be optionally specified with contour lighting), it’s the roofline that defines the newcomer’s exterior design. Unlike the 1st-gen X2, the new model scores an obvious coupé-shaped silhouette with proportions more in line with those of the larger X4 and X6.

The new X2 is 194 mm longer than its forebear.

Round back, you’ll find a Gurney-style spoiler, a chunky rear apron and, in the case of the M Performance X2 M35i derivative, 2 pairs of tailpipes. BMW says the M Sport package will be standard on the sDrive18i variant in South Africa, with the M Sport Pro package optional.

Inside, there’s the BMW Curved Display running the latest BMW Operating System 9, while a so-called “floating” armrest with an integrated control panel is sited between the front pews. The Bavarian firm says the standard front seats are “newly developed” and available in various upholstery finishes, adding that sport seats will be optional.

Note the latest iteration of the curved display.

BMW claims standard features for the new X2 will include items such as 2-zone automatic climate control, the BMW Maps navigation system, leather trim for the sports steering wheel, a powered tailgate and as many as 4 USB-C ports. Of course, various “structured” equipment packages will also be on offer, along with individual options (such as a panoramic glass sunroof and an electrically operated tow hitch).

So, what about the engine options? Well, the new X2 M35i employs a turbocharged 2.0-litre, 4-cylinder petrol engine generating up to 233 kW and 400 Nm, endowing it with a 0-100 kph sprint time of 5.4 seconds and a top speed of 250 kph, according to BMW. Just as is the case with the X1 M35i, Europe will receive a version detuned to 221 kW (though we expect the full-fat model to be offered in SA).

Quad pipes, anyone?

Boasting the most powerful M Performance 4-cylinder engine yet (in combination with a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission), the all-wheel-drive X2 M35i furthermore scores M-specific chassis tuning and adaptive M suspension, with items such as M Compound brakes set to be offered as options. Light-alloy wheels measuring up to 21 inches in diameter will also be available.

Meanwhile, the X2 sDrive18i uses the brand’s turbocharged 1.5-litre, 3-cylinder petrol engine, which makes 115 kW and 230 Nm, facilitating a 0-100 kph time of 9.0 seconds and a top speed of 213 kph. The X2 sDrive18d employs a 2.0-litre, 4-cylinder turbodiesel motor sending 110 kW and 360 Nm to the front axle, also via a 7-speed dual-clutch gearbox. This oil-burning model will hit 100 kph from standstill in a claimed 8.9 seconds, before topping out at 210 kph. The listed combined fuel economy is as low as 5.1 L/100 km.

The iX2 xDrive30 has a single-charge range of nearly 450 km.

Overseas markets will also get the 125 kW/280Nm X2 sDrive20i, along with the fully electric iX2 xDrive30. The latter features an electric motor on each axle, together generating peak system outputs of 230 kW (including a “temporary boost”) and 494 Nm. BMW says the iX2 xDrive30 will accelerate from 0 to 100 kph in 5.6 seconds, with a maximum speed of 180 kph. Thanks to its 64.8 kWh (usable) battery pack, the fully electric model has a listed WLTP range of up to 449 km.

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