The compact BMW X2 is clearly here to stay, with the launch of the second generation of BMW’s Sports Activity Coupe.
Singapore - Developing niches isn’t the easiest, even if many people like to cling to the idea that, “if you build it, they will buy it.”
Some might say there’s just too much variety these days when it comes to vehicle types.
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However, compact, crossover-style activity vehicles seem to attract a following, especially among the young and upwardly mobile (or simply the young-at-heart) who find sedans, conventional SUVs and the 2 Series Active / Grand Tourer too sensible and fuddy-duddy.
Moreover, it’s perfectly adequate that something like the BMW X2 has the de rigeur rugged looks, even if it doesn’t spend an inch off-road during the course of its life in our urban jungle… nor is it supposed to, really.
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The current U10 X2 is a stylish entry-point to the other larger SACs (BMW first coined the “Sports Activity Coupe” term with the launch of the first generation X6 back in 2007/08) in the brand’s line-up, namely the X4 and X6.
Despite the scoffing from many quarters at the launch of the original X6, BMW would have the last laugh as all the other major manufacturers would jump on the crossover-coupe bandwagon.
If you need help figuring out BMW’s naming convention, the X2, X4 and X6 are meant to be “funner”, more dynamic crossover-coupe versions of the brand’s prim and proper X1, X3 and X5 respectively.
Although we’re taking the front-driven X2 sDrive16i M Sport (to date, the only version you can get in Singapore) with a turbocharged three-cylinder 1.5-litre petrol engine under its bonnet, there’s also an all-electric model sold in tandem, which is dubbed the iX2 – the EV version of the X1 is called the iX1.
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To appeal to the people who appreciate “go-faster” exterior trappings, the M Sport version brings with it High-Gloss Shadowline exterior trim and roof rails, as well as 20-inch M light-alloy wheels.
If you’re thinking it looks larger than before, it actually is, and not just due to its stretched lines and expansive surface treatment.
The current model is longer, wider and taller than its predecessor, and also boasts a +20mm-ish longer wheelbase and wider tracks, which pay off in terms of interior space and a larger-than-before 560-litres boot capacity.
With its prominent, upright front-end styling and hexagonal kidney grille, the X2’s “coupe” credentials are further accentuated by the roof and rear aesthetics to properly differentiate it from its SAV (Sport Activity Vehicle) sibling, the X1.
We do miss the quirky aesthetics of the original F39 X2, especially the aggressive squared-off rear styling, low roofline, prominent Hofmeister kink and the blue-white roundels on the C-pillars (just like the M1!).
On the inside, the comfortably appointed cabin features intriguing design details, a smaller diameter M Sport steering wheel and adaptive damping, which can be toggled between comfort and sporty settings.
The new X2 features the BMW Curved Display, which boasts lush graphics and runs the latest OS9.
We would have preferred physical buttons for common functions, like disabling the Auto Start/Stop feature for instance. Thankfully, one saving grace is the physical toggle for the volume.
The front sports seats are clad in eco-friendly Veganza (an animal-free, vegan-friendly faux “leather”) and feature electric adjustment (with memory presets for the driver’s seat) and there’s now better space in the rear for three abreast.
The turbocharged three-cylinder 1.5-litre produces a peppy 122hp and 230Nm, which sees it slot within the Cat A COE (although we should qualify that the difference in premiums between the Cat A and Cat B COE isn’t huge these days).
For what it's worth, this style comes at a premium.
The Cat A X2 sDrive16i M Sport nudges S$252+k (at time of writing), which isn't as easy on the wallet as you'd have thought (hoped). In contrast, the X1 M Sport is S$244+k and the all-electric iX1 is S$261+k – there isn't a price as yet for the iX2, but it shouldn't be hard to guesstimate based on the X1 vs iX1 difference.
There’s decent push once you’re up to speed, and the 7-speed transmission serves up well-slurred shifts for smooth progress. The adaptive suspension delivers a pliant, well-cosseted ride that can also be toggled for sportier responses, should the need arise.
The new model is less of a rebel than the cool, original upstart. It has certainly grown up and matured to become a fitting accessory for the trendy professional.
BMW X2 sDrive16i M Sport
Engine 1499cc, inline3, turbocharged
Power at rpm 122hp at 3900 - 6500rpm
Torque at rpm 230Nm at 1500 - 3600rpm
Transmission 7spd Steptronic dual-clutch auto
0-100km/h 10.5secs
Top speed 197km/h
