BMW X2: Experiential Review

BMW’s new crossover coupé is fresh, young and modern. Plus, it retains the excellent dynamic qualities of the Bavarian brand. What’s not to like?

Over the last decade or so, the concept of the crossover coupé has picked up steadily amongst car manufacturers. It may sound extremely bizarre, but a sporty, high-riding coupe is a thing now – and, well, there’s demand for it. The arrival of the BMW X2, then, is hardly surprising. It has the same spirit of its bigger sibling, the X6 – which, technically, is responsible for making crossover coupes famous back in 2008. The X2, in comparison, is a little more interesting. It uses the same philosophy, but with compact dimensions and a funky style language that we haven’t seen coming from Munich before. 

Stands out

It’s the styling that makes the X2 standout. It has a reversed double-kidney grille and an M Sport X setup, which basically means that it clubs its off-road base with M Performance elements. There’s no denying that the combination is effective, thanks to the exuberant colour of the car – called Galvanic gold – which goes quite well with the inserts in Frozen Grey. Some of the elements of the outer body of the X2 are even reminiscent of old BMW cars. For instance, the BMW roundels on the rear posts is a throwback touch to BMW’s coupés from the 60s and 70s. 

The X2 uses the same platform that underpins the 2 Series Active Tourer, Mini Countryman and, obviously, the X1. Dimensions wise, it’s a little more compact than the X1 though – eight centimetres shorter and seven centimetres lower, to be precise. The X2 compromises on some of the X1’s practicality to become more appealing to younger audiences. The rear-seat has less headroom and boot space is less too. However, things are much better in front. You quickly find a perfect driving position without any real trouble. And once you’re behind the wheel, it only gets better. The powertrain is muffled and silent at idle, but it has a lot of oomph. The driving experience is rather relaxing and comfortable – irrespective of the lowered chassis and 19-inch wheels. Bigger wheels, on the other hand, allow for better grip and a feeling of that signature BMW driving experience. This is further intensified by the steering wheel – which is sharp, sensitive and progressive. You’ll also fall in love with the way the brakes feel on the X2. The eight-speed transmission is another highlight – it’s quick and seems to read your mind. There’s always enough performance to be had from the diesel motor in the entire rev-range. And, to be honest, you don’t really miss the eagerness of a high-revving petrol engine – unless you want to exploit its dynamic capabilities on a fast and winding mountain road. 

Of course, there’s a petrol on offer as well, but there’s no electrified version at present. Since the platform allows it to have hybrid technology, perhaps we’ll see a plug-in version in the future. Of course, it’s this 2.0-litre diesel that we’ll likely get in India when the X2 is launched – most likely – later this year. 

The BMW X2 has a lot in common with the more traditional X1, including the wheelbase, mechanicals and the dashboard. However, it has a more stylish and dynamic look, thanks to its lowered ride-height and coupe-like lines.

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