BMW is putting on quite a show these days in Tokyo where it has brought not one but two examples of the second-generation X2 at the 2023 Japan Mobility Show (formerly known as the Tokyo Motor Show). Aside from the fully electric iX2 xDrive30, the compact crossover-coupe shows its sporty side as an M Performance model. Although future gas-powered models are expected to drop the “i” from the end of their names as early as 2024, this is still called the X2 M35i.
The Stunning Frozen Portimao Blue
Painted in a matte color like the i5 M60 also attending the show, the range-topping X2 is finished in Frozen Portimao Blue and rides on 21-inch wheels. Yes, BMW is putting 21-inch wheels these days on the X2 as well as the X1 because both crossovers are way larger than their predecessors. Since we mentioned the wheels, this M35i has the optional M Compound brakes as denoted by the gray calipers and the M logo. There are four-piston calipers hugging 385-mm drilled discs at the front and single-piston calipers with 330-mm discs at the rear.
Quad Pipes
Speaking of the “world’s most powerful letter,” you’ll also find it on the kidney grille. It wasn’t there on the old X2 M35i. We recently saw an X1 M35i with the hood open and it had the “M” on the engine cover as well, which likely means it’s the same story with the coupe-styled derivative. Both these high-performance crossovers now rock a quad exhaust that BMW intends to put on the next M135i hot hatch as well. In addition, the M235i Gran Coupe could get this more aggressive setup as well.
Codenamed U10, we’d reckon the new X2 is finally the baby X6 it should’ve been in the first place. That might make it more interesting among younger buyers who can’t make the financial effort to get the bigger Sports Activity Coupe. The in-betweener, the X4, is rumored to be discontinued after this generation, although we’re hearing there will be a fully electric iX4.
Made in Leipzig, the new X2 will have its market launch in 2024. Later that summer, BMW will extend the lineup to include a front-wheel-drive, single-motor iX2 and another diesel X2.