- The BMW X2 enters its second generation with a new design that is quite different than its predecessor’s.
- The 2024 X2 comes in two versions, both with an inline four-cylinder engine: the 241-hp xDrive28i and the 312-hp M35i xDrive.
- Pricing has not yet been revealed, but U.S. customers will get the new SUV starting in March 2024.
We called it a sportier, less practical X1, and that’s exactly what the BMW X2 remains as it enters its second generation. What is remarkable about the new model is how different it looks from its sibling. From the sharp angles of its tall, stubby hood to its chunky fastback rear end, no one will ever confuse this crossover with an X1.
The previous X2 offered a unique look thanks to available contrast colors, and the C-pillars were adorned with BMW logos, a clever nod to the eternal classic, the E9 coupe. The new X2, by contrast, is a more conventional design with the typical hunchback that signifies vehicles positioned as “SUV coupes.” With such a chiseled and tallish look, it’s surprising that it sports a drag coefficient of 0.25. The M35i model is distinguished by a different grille design and four exhaust tips, one for each cylinder.
Inside, the X2 is very much a sister model of the X1, with BMW’s ubiquitous curved display and the somewhat controversial gauge-cluster graphics that present the speedo and tach in the form of an angle. There is an optional panoramic roof, the cargo area measures 25 cubic feet, and—depending on the version—the seats and dashboard are adorned with Alcantara. The standard seats are clad with vinyl, bombastically called “animal-free Veganza.”
While Europe gets a choice of a fully electric version, four-cylinder diesels, a three-cylinder entry-level gasoline engine and a powerful four-cylinder gasoline engine, the U.S. will get just two turbo fours. The X2 xDrive 28i is powered by a 241-hp 2.0-liter four, and the X2 M35i xDrive gets a 312-hp variation of the same powerplant. Torque is identical at 295 pound-feet, but it comes at lower revs in the entry-level model. That’s enough to offset the 3800-pound-plus heft: The sprint to 60 mph takes a claimed 6.2 and 5.2 seconds, respectively, and top speed is governed at 149 or 155 mph—if summer tires are specified. Failure to check those tires on the order form means a 130 mph governor on either model.
Both models come with standard all-wheel drive and a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. Handling should be satisfactory, thanks to a stiffer body, a wider track, and upgraded chassis components. We’ll reserve judgment until we’ve driven the X2, but we recommend the optional M Sport package on the entry-level X2 xDrive 28i as it comes with larger brakes, different steering, and adaptive dampers. It’s standard in the M35i xDrive.
In keeping with the times, the new X2 comes with a vast number of connectivity features and driver-assistance systems. There are even in-car video games from gaming platform AirConsole. Beyond the usual driving modes, you can opt for Relax, Expressive, and Digital Art modes. An Efficiency Trainer can teach drivers to take it more slowly, while the interior camera can take photos and record videos.
Pricing is undisclosed, but the X2 is sure to come in a few grand above its identically powered X1 sister models, which start in the low-$40,000 range. The 2024 X2 will arrive at U.S. dealerships in March 2024.
Contributing Editor
Jens Meiners has covered the auto industry since 1996 and written for Car and Driver for much of that time. He is a juror on the World Car of the Year and International Engine of the Year and founder of German Car of the Year. Jens splits his time between New York and Nuremberg, where he keeps a growing collection of historic cars.