BMW X2

BMW X2 xDrive20d M Sport 2018 UK review

Should I buy one?

Whether or not you should buy an X2 depends on how much of a rational purchase you’re out to make and how deep your pockets are.

Anyone who needs the practicality, capability, comfort or convenience supplied by BMW’s other X-branded cars, or indeed of many of the other crossovers and compact SUVs available for less than the X2’s price, isn’t likely to convince himself that he’s found what he’s looking for here.

At the end of the reckoning process, the hard-headed among us would have to concede that this car is exactly what it looks like: just a hatchback. The emperor’s new sports activity coupé, you might say.

But can BMW really be blamed for giving us a hatchback that we’re likely to want? Whether that’s because it’s got an X on the bootlid, or four-wheel drive, or a curvy roofline, or an upmarket interior, or a strong diesel engine, or handling you can enjoy from time to time – or for every one of those reasons? Perhaps not.

Even if it’s simply because you like the BMW badges on the pillars, if you like the X2, you’re just gonna like it. And guess what? We like it too.

BMW X2 xDrive20d M Sport

On sale Now Engine 4cyls in line, 1995cc, turbodiesel Power 187bhp at 4000rpm; Torque 295lb ft at 1750rpm; Gearbox 8-spd automatic; Kerb weight 1675kg; 0-62mph 7.7sec; Top speed 137mph; Economy 58.9mpg (NEDC combined); CO2/tax band 126g/km; Rivals Jaguar E-Pace 2.0 D180 R-Dynamic AWD Auto, Audi Q3 2.0 TDI 184 Quattro Black Edition

https://www.autocar.co.uk/car-review/bmw/x2/first-drives/bmw-x2-xdrive20d-m-sport-2018-uk-review

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Cars have become too expensive! I was shocked to see an X3 for R999 990.00
 
Comparison test: 2018 Volvo XC40 vs BMW X2 vs Jaguar E-Pace vs Audi Q2 - Drive.com.au

[video=youtube_share;qHo1Wd3F5Eo]https://youtu.be/qHo1Wd3F5Eo[/video]
 
Tested: BMW's X2 is refreshingly different

German car companies are often accused of getting so carried away with a particular corporate design language that most of their model lines end up looking annoyingly similar. Many referred to the “same sausage, three different lengths” phenomenon when discussing BMW’s sedans of the 1990s, and that quip could easily apply to many modern BMWs, Audis and Mercs.

Yet regardless of whether spreading the design love might actually be a good thing - if one has a winning formula, that is - you could never point such accusations at BMW’s first-ever X2.

Though in concept it aims to bring the coupe-inspired-crossover spirit of its larger X4 and X6 siblings into a smaller package, the X2 really doesn’t look anything like its siblings. It's the new BMW family rebel. Certainly not on the same subversion level as its M Coupe uncle, but you get the drift (although the X2 doesn’t, which we’ll get to soon).

Think of it as that sibling who vapes funny flavours and jumps out of aeroplanes, while its brothers are out playing a sensible game of golf.

You see it in the overall look and the smaller details. The Hofmeister kink doesn’t cross over the rear door line, for instance, and there’s a BMW badge on the C-pillar in an apparent nod to its 3.0 CSL ancestor, while the ‘double kidney’ grille is basically upside down.

And what’s not to like about that?

The X2 strikes a refreshing pose in the crossover segment, looking more like a pumped up hot hatch than a scaled-down 4x4. It’s fairly low-slung (7cm lower than an X1) and fitted with 19-inch rims and low profile rubber as standard, so it’s really not made for the rough stuff, although it does have a higher stance and seating position than a regular car - something that’s oh-so important to most of today’s car buyers.

The ‘base trim’ X2 isn’t available in South Africa, so the M Sport is the starter model and there’s also an M Sport X derivative with a 10mm-higher ground clearance and a more rugged looking body kit featuring a good dose of contrasting Frozen Grey exterior trim.

Despite what its racy looks might lead you to assume however, the X2 doesn’t ride on one of the brand’s sportier rear-wheel-drive platforms, instead it’s formed around BMW’s ULK front-wheel-drive architecture that also underpins the X1 and the entire Mini range. With this, of course, comes its own set of pros and cons.

The upside is that the X2 is surprisingly spacious, with a fit-for-the-holidays 470 litre boot and ample rear legroom, although taller occupants will find headroom on the tight side. This is in spite of its relatively compact dimensions - at 4360mm long it’s exactly the same length as a Toyota CH-R, although the BMW is almost 30mm wider. It shares its 2670mm wheelbase with the X1, although the X2 is 79mm shorter.

The downside of its ULK underpinnings is that it’s not as entertaining to drive as the rear-driven models - although it’s debatable whether many target buyers are going to mind that. The petrol-powered X2s are all front-wheel-driven, in fact, while the 2-litre diesel comes with BMW’s xDrive all-wheel-drive system as standard, but even the front-driven models handle quite neatly. On the downside, the electric power steering system lacks sensation when the car is in its default settings (although the Sport drive mode sorts this out), and the ride is a little on the firm side, albeit still acceptably comfortable.

We spent a week with the sDrive20i, which is the top petrol model, priced at R650 000. It’s powered by BMW’s familiar 2-litre TwinPower turbopetrol engine that’s good for 141kW and 280Nm, and paired with a slick-shifting seven-speed dual-clutch transmission. It offers strong and effortless performance, but in foot-flat mode it’s never going to offer you any delusions of boy racer grandeur.

There’s also a slightly more affordable option in the form of the sDrive18i. Starting at R578 000, it’s powered by a 103kW version of BMW’s 1.5-litre turbo-triple.

The X2’s cabin design imparts the same sporty vibes as the car’s exterior, and the textures and materials have a high-quality feel. It’s certainly one of BMW’s best modern efforts, but if you want to stock it up with all the cool stuff then you’ll need to stretch that budget even further.

BMW’s iDrive operating system comes standard, linked to a 16.5cm screen, but you’ll need another R23 600 if you want the fancier Navigation Plus system, which gives you touch-screen functionality through a 22.3cm screen. It’s a very agreeable interface, with smart-looking graphics and a main-menu screen with three configurable tiles.

Buyers can opt for a whole raft of camera-based driving assistance gizmos, including City Braking with collision and pedestrian warning, Active Cruise Control with Stop & Go and High Beam Assist, to name a few.

VERDICT

The X2 is probably not going to find a place in the hearts of those that appreciate old-school BMW driving dynamics. And yet the X2’s distinctive styling and classy interior will likely attract those seeking something that feels sportier than your average crossover or SUV. It’s pricey though.

https://www.iol.co.za/motoring/road-tests/tested-bmws-x2-is-refreshingly-different-15246870

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BMW X2 vs Volvo XC40 vs Jaguar E-Pace - which is the best small SUV? | Head-2-Head - Carwow

[video=youtube;cs0mbDD3Xnk]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cs0mbDD3Xnk[/video]
 
BMW X2 M35i

Sportiness coupled with a polarising appearance - based on this formula, the new BMW X2 has inspired above all a young and modern target group following its premiere in March 2018. With its extroverted design, the BMW X2 interprets the character of a premium SAC (Sports Activity Coupes) in an entirely new way within the compact segment.

The top-of-the-range version of the BMW X2 is the M Performance automobile

BMW is now presenting the new top model of the X2 series. The wide BMW double kidney grille of new BMW X2 M35i (combined fuel consumption 8.4-8.1 l/100 km; combined CO2 emissions: 191-185 g/km), features a surround in Cerium Grey for visual differentiation at first glance. Likewise, the surrounds of the air cooling inlets and the exterior mirror caps are finished in Cerium Grey. The rear of the X2 M35i is characterised by the standard M rear spoiler and two specially designed exhaust tailpipes, which also come in Cerium Grey.

BMW's most powerful 2-litre TwinPower Turbo engine

The new BMW X2 M35i featuring a 225 kW (306 hp) 4-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine definitely sets new benchmarks above the previous versions. As the letter M in the type designation clearly signalises, the new X2 M35i possesses the impressive dynamic handling qualities of an M Performance automobile. Behind this is yet again the BMW M GmbH, whose racing know-how flows into the development of all components. The 2-litre TwinPower Turbo engine concealed under an M Performance cover is the very first M Performance four-cylinder engine and at the same time BMW's most powerful version. It delivers a fascinating maximum power output of 225 kW (306 hp). Maximum torque is an extremely powerful 450 Newton metres. To ensure that this sheer power is securely transferred to the tarmac, the X2 M35i comes as standard with intelligent four-wheel drive technology xDrive in conjunction with the 8-speed Steptronic transmission including Launch Control. The automatic transmission features specific M Performance tuning. Equipped in this way, the BMW X2 M35i is able to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 4.9 seconds. The necessary thermal stability of the engine is now ensured by a redesigned cooling system.

https://www.netcarshow.com/bmw/2019-x2_m35i/

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BMW Reveals Potent X2

German carmaker BMW has revealed the X2 M35i - a performance version of the stylish X2 crossover. Herewith, some details:

The new BMW X2 M35i is powered by the most powerful 4-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine offered by the brand. It offers up 225 kW and 450 Nm, which is sufficient to fling the stylish SUV to 100 kph in a claimed 4.9 seconds. Power goes to all four wheels via BMW's 8-speed Steptronic gearbox, which also features launch control.

It's not just a powerful engine and some sporty kit fitted to the BMW X2 M35i. Speaking of sporty kit, you'll be able to spot the X2 M35i with its sporty front bumper with large intakes, unique mirrors, large exhausts and unique 19-inch alloy wheels. The real detail is in the performance upgrades, however. There is a remap on the gearbox, with a focus on performance as well as an M Sport suspension. You can also option adaptive suspension, which will likely be well worth forking out for. There's also an M Sport differential fitted to the front axle and bigger M Sport brakes have been fitted.

The BMW X2 M35i goes into global production in November 2018 and we'll see the first units arrive in South Africa in the first quarter of 2019.

https://www.cars.co.za/motoring_news/bmw-reveals-potent-x2/45500/
 
BMW’s beefed up X2 M35i flagship coming to SA

BMW has finally added a proper performance model to its daringly styled X2 crossover range and it’s powered by the beefiest version of the company’s 2-litre four-cylinder engine to date.

The new X2 M35i, which is expected to touch down in South Africa during the first quarter of 2019, gets a 225kW, 450Nm version of BMW's 2-litre TwinPower engine, which is just as powerful as the original version of the company's 3-litre six-cylinder turbo. This is also the first time that BMW’s M Performance division has worked its magic on a four-cylinder engine.

Equipped with launch control, the X2 M35i is said to be capable of a 4.9 second 0-100km/h sprint.

The standard eight-speed automatic gearbox and xDrive all-wheel-drive system have been specifically adapted to M Performance standards, as have the suspension, steering and braking systems, while understeer is countered by an M Sport locking differential on the front axle.

An adaptive suspension system featuring two different manually adjustable modes will be available as an option.

The M35i rides on 19-inch or (optional) 20-inch alloys, and the M Performance model can also be told apart from humbler X2s by the Cerium Grey finishes on its grille, air inlet surrounds, mirror caps and tailpipes,

Inside it gets an M Sport steering wheel as standard, but you will have to dig deeper into those pockets for the racing-bucket-style M sports seats with integrated headrests. And if that bright red is just too much? Plain black or a black and blue combination are available as alternatives.

https://www.iol.co.za/motoring/latest-launches/bmws-beefed-up-x2-m35i-flagship-coming-to-sa-16938030
 
would love to see the demographic of people that actually buy the X2 (I do actually like it, but I think its way overpriced).

Me thinks, Bryanston driving soccer moms
 
BMW X2 M35i unveils firm’s “most powerful” 2,0-litre engine

BMW has revealed details of its X2 range-topper, the new X2 M35i, which is set to feature the firm’s most powerful 2,0-litre, four-cylinder turbopetrol engine to date. This unit channels 225 kW and 450 N.m to the standard fitment xDrive four-wheel drive system via an 8-speed torque converter automatic transmission. According to BMW, the X2 M35i will hit 100 km/h from standstill in an impressive 4,9 seconds, while claimed fuel consumption is pegged at 8,4 litres/100 km with CO2 emissions of 191 g/km.

The X2 M35i is specified with an M Sport suspension, lowering the vehicle and providing stiffer springs and dampers, as standard with an adaptive suspension system with two selectable modes available as an option. Notably, this model sees the inclusion of an M Sport locking differential for the front axle to improve traction at the front wheels. The steering has also been updated to provide improved levels of steering feel and precision.

To differentiate the M35i from lesser X2 derivatives the flagship receives Cerium Grey surrounds for the signature BMW kidney grille, air inlets and side mirror caps. An M-inspired rear spoiler and model-specific twin exhaust ports, also finished in Cerium Grey each measuring at 100 mm in diameter, round out the exterior finishes. Inside, M Sport seats with improved comfort and support add some dynamic flavour to the cabin.

BMW SA has confirmed that the the X2 M35i will be available in South Africa in the first quarter of 2019.

http://www.carmag.co.za/uncategorized/bmw-x2-m35i-unveils-firms-powerful-20-litre-engine/
 
BMW details new entry-level diesel models for X2 range

BMW has announced a few small changes to its compact vehicle ranges, led by the addition of fresh entry-level diesel models to the X2 line-up.

Although not yet confirmed for South Africa, the Munich-based automaker says new variants, both with a four-cylinder diesel engine and front-wheel drive, will be added to the X2 range from November 2018. The news comes after the firm revealed its new flagship, the X2 M35i.

The new X2 sDrive20d is powered by a 2,0-litre diesel engine, sending 140 kW to the front wheels via an eight-speed automatic transmission. It sips at a claimed 4,7 L/100 km and accelerates from standstill to 100 km/h in a claimed 7,9 seconds.

Then there’s the 110 kW diesel unit in the new X2 xDrive18d, which can optionally be specified with the same eight-speed gearbox. BMW says this model will dash from zero to 100 km/h in 9,4 seconds, and return a combined fuel consumption of 4,9 L/100 km.

Furthermore, BMW says that from November 2018, M sports seats and M seat belts will be available as additional options for X2 models specified with the M Sport or M Sport X equipment lines.

The 1 Series range, meanwhile, gains a new Edition M Sport Shadow model, available from November 2018 (again, unconfirmed for South Africa). This derivative, pictured below, replaces the M Sport variant and adds items such as LED headlamps with black inserts, LED front foglamps, dark rear lights, a grille frame in high-gloss black and tailpipes in black chrome.

The Edition M Sport Shadow variant for the 1 Series also gains Jet Black 18-inch M light-alloy wheels in a twin-spoke design. Inside, you’ll find a BMW Individual headliner in Anthracite and sports seats in textile “Corner Anthracite” with grey accents.

Alongside these updates, the Bavarian brand has also announced that more than 190 of its models now meet the latest Euro 6d-Temp exhaust standard.

http://www.carmag.co.za/news/bmw-details-new-entry-level-diesel-models-x2-range/
 
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