2024 BMW X2 review: First Australian drive

It might read funny seeing another BMW launch, when the brand now offers over 72 model variants locally.

I wouldn't judge you for confusing the brand's Australian website with a global one showcasing every model they have available worldwide – just as I did.

So when we had our product presentation at the launch of the all-new X2 and iX2, I was wondering what the new model could really offer customers, who at this point have 71 other options from the German brand.

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What quickly became apparent is how the new second-generation X2 fits the gap currently missing in its small SUV portfolio – a sporty version of the recently launched third-generation X1.

The new X2 has been built on the same platform as the X1, differentiating primarily in terms of style and functionality. The X1 and iX1 maintain a more conventional design, which generally makes them more practical, whereas the X2 and iX2 are designed with a more aggressive appearance in mind.

This pattern repeats itself through the range, for example with the sensibly styled X3 contrasted with the athletic look of the X4. It happens again with the X5 and X6, where it all began.

The new X1 launched in our market just over 12 months ago, resulting in record sales results in 2023. Along with the iX1, it's paved the way of opportunity in the compact SUV world for BMW, which has clearly seized the growing market opportunity of a segment that barely existed ten years ago.

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JUMP AHEAD

• How much is it, and what do you get?
• Features
• Interior comfort, space, and storage
• How do rivals compare on value?
• What is it like to drive?
• Fuel efficiency
• How safe is it?
• Warranty and running costs
• VERDICT

How much is it, and what do you get?

Australia will receive two variants of the new petrol sports activity coupe, and both will come off the production line with an M Sport package.

The line-up begins with the X2 xDrive20i, priced at $75,900 before on-road costs. The performance-focused X2 M35i xDrive features a 2.0-litre turbo B48 four-cylinder engine with all-wheel drive and a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission, coming in at $92,900 excluding on-road costs.

Electric versions of the model will sit in the middle of the range, with the single-motor iX2 eDrive20 coming in at $82,900 and iX2 xDrive30 available for $85,700 – both excluding on-road costs.

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The second-generation X2 is now almost 20cm longer than the outgoing model, measuring in at 4.5 metres in length and edging into midsize-SUV territory.

Additionally, the vehicle features a longer wheelbase (22mm) and wider tracks (21mm).

The design is enhanced by a tapered roofline and an integrated rear spoiler, creating a distinctive appearance.

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The upgrade in length means the bonus of additional boot capacity is increased to 90-115 litres dependant on configuration.

The xDrive20 is powered by a 150W/300Nm 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol engine. It's paired to a seven-speed automatic dual-clutch transmission that means acceleration from 0-100km/h is reached in 7.4 seconds.

The M35i on the other hand is equipped with a robust 233kW and 400Nm of torque, which is actually up from European version's 221kW, allowing for an acceleration of 0-100km/h in just 5.4 seconds.

Both are paired to BMW's xDrive all-wheel drive system.

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Features

The base xDrive20i comes equipped with a range of sophisticated features designed to enhance both comfort and performance, that we've come to expect from the German automaker.

It includes a 10.3-inch driver display paired with a 10.7-inch curved touchscreen for a driver-focused interface experience. Comfort is a priority with front electric seat adjustment and front heated seats, all upholstered in 'Veganza' synthetic leather. Three leather trim options are available for an additional $2154, or four leatherette options.

The vehicle we drove was also fitted with the optional $2000 20-inch wheels, over the standard 19-inch version. All versions of the X2 benefit from the M Sport Package as standard, which includes M adaptive suspension and M design additions such as sports seats.

If you wanted to further beef up your X2, the M Sport Package Pro adds additional pizzazz such as red gloss brake callipers and an M rear spoiler.

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Visibility and safety is enhanced by adaptive LED headlights, cool sequential pulsing indicators, a 360-degree reverse camera and blind-spot monitors. Additional luxuries include dual-zone auto climate control, a head-up display, and kidney grille illumination.

Our test vehicle also had the available enhancement pack, adding the panoramic sunroof, a Harman/Kardon premium audio system, and steering wheel heating for $3700.

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Moving up to the M35i will add most of those options and enhancement packs such as the M Sport Package pro plus more.

This includes larger standard 20-inch wheels, which can be upgraded to 21 Y-Spoke style alloys, as well as coral red interior trim, dark blue metallic brake calipers and M specific dash trims.

Alpine White exterior paint is a no cost option while Metallic paints add $1800 to your drive-away price. BMW Individual metallic paintwork is also a $5000 option but reduced to $3200 when purchased in combination with the enhancement pack.

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Interior comfort, space and storage

The X2's interior emphasises soft touch points throughout to enhance the luxurious feel. The cabin features seats upholstered in BMW's signature 'Veganza' vegan leather that are very comfortable and would be hard to differentiate from actual leather.

It's obvious as well that great design has been at the forefront of the development of this small SUV.

As the driver, the cockpit centres around a curved display that includes a 10.7-inch infotainment screen and a 10.3-inch digital dashboard, creating a driver-focused environment.

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All controls are conveniently placed to ensure ease of use, and the system supports wireless Apple CarPlay which paired quickly. BMW’s iDrive 9 operating system enhances the experience further, using Android's open source software.

Following customer feedback on difficulties in locating menu items, the latest operating system has introduced a feature where quick links can be accessed with a simple swipe down on the menu. However, there is a minor drawback: these quick links can be too sensitive, sometimes activating when merely browsing through the features.

For owners wanting specific applications, BMW is offering 'Digital Premium' subscriptions for $9.99/month or $109 for the year. It adds functionality to install apps which can add extra drive modes, live maps and lighting functionality – arguably features which buyers should expect to come standard in any premium car at this price point. There is, at least, a 90-day complimentary period for customers to give it a go.

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Storage solutions are cleverly designed, albeit quite small, with just enough space in the centre console for essentials like a slim card wallet.

Larger items can be accommodated in the open area below, which also houses two USB-C chargers. I struggled to squeeze my handbag in there, but if I were to live with the vehicle as I usually do, my bag would end up in the passenger seat footwell or on the seat itself.

An upright wireless charger, secured with a rollercoaster-style bar, adds a functional touch to keep your mobile phone in place.

Both front seats are power-operated and include a massage feature, which would work well on longer trips to keep drivers awake with some light prodding in the back.

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2024 BMW X2 M35 interior - international model

The cabin is definitely on the cosier side

My main complaint, which applies to all models, concerns visibility: the forward view is hindered by thick A-pillars, and the rearward view is limited through a slim window and chunky C-pillars due to the vehicle's rear design. It means you're heavily reliant on the reverse camera. But again, that's what the X1 exists for, to alleviate coupe-like limitations.

While we're on the topic, let's talk space. The cabin is definitely on the cosier side, but that can be expected of a car this size. Although longer and slightly taller in its new iteration, rear headroom is now compromised by a sloping roofline meaning taller passengers will be vocal. If you're ever wanting three in the back, don't think about it – get something bigger.

Boot capacity is generous in both models at 560 litres (or 1470 with rear seats folded) which is significant compared to rivals. You get some nifty additional storage where a spare tyre usually lives, which comes at the expense of, well, not having a spare tyre.

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How do rivals compare on value?

The most direct competitor to the coupe SUV is the good-looking little Audi Q3 Sportback.

By luxury standards, the Q3 is on the more affordable side starting at $58,200 before on-roads, and continues to look fresh since the second-generation launched in 2018.

The 35 TFSI all-wheel-drive model are equipped with a 1.4-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine, which generates 110kW and 250Nm of torque. This engine is coupled with a six-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission that drives the front wheels.

A performance version more closely comparable with the M35i is available higher up in the range – the RS TFSI quattro S tronic – paired to a whopping 294Kw/480Nm 2.5-litre five-cylinder engine that does the 0-100km/h sprint in just 4.5 seconds. This one will set you back $105,300 prior to on-road costs.

Audi’s standard warranty has been increased up to five-years and unlimited kilometres, with a five-year service plan bundled up into an extra $3330.

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What is it like to drive?

The basics

First up at the launch, the M35i was my companion for the first portion of our 200km drive loop. Initial impressions were of a grunty-sounding engine, but from within the cabin it was hard to tell how much of this might have been synthesised.

When moving through the winding roads in south Tassie, the steering was lighter than anticipated. Although a great feature to mask the weight of the vehicle, there was almost a dead spot in the centre of the steering wheel. It was made even more prominent by how responsive the wheel became when turned further in either direction.

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A quick tap onto Sports mode quickly firmed up the steering feel and increased engine noise.

A few deep potholes allowed us to properly assess the suspension. Wheels were quite quick to thump into the gaps, but the rebound was almost completely absorbed by the car.

The powertrain itself was a good amount of sporty with some artificial noise used to emphasise this further. It's not a full blown M offering by any means, but with a 5.4 second 0-100km/h time, it's got plenty of go.

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The XDrive20 felt like a lighter version of the M35i – both in weight and steering feel. It's two seconds slower that the range-topper to 100km/h, but offers enough punch from a red light.

Safety features like lane-keep assist were non-intrusive and beeps and chimes were minimal throughout the day.

There's a slight amount of body roll which is natural in these types of taller cars. You can't forget that the higher entry hip-points come at a cost.

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Fuel efficiency

Our drive test saw fuel consumption sitting at 10.9L/100km on the M35i compared to the quoted range of 7.8L.

But that could be somewhat put down to some rather spirited driving. The return trip, taken at a more leisurely pace, returned an improved 9.3L.

The return drive in the xDrive20i similarly saw consumption at 8.8L versus the quoted 7.5L usage, which is fairly common usage for a vehicle of this size and capacity.

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How safe is it?

The previous generation X2 inherited its safety rating from the X1, as both models share the same platform and safety features.

Although BMW does not currently plan to have the X2 and iX2 undergo ANCAP testing locally, the recently launched X1 has retained its maximum safety rating, which was carried over from ENCAP in mid-2022.

Driving Assistant suite of features is available across the petrol range including:

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Warranty and running costs

BMW Australia provides a five-year, unlimited-kilometre warranty for all new vehicles in its line-up.

Additionally, BMW offers a Service Inclusive package for the X2, covering five years or 80,000km, available for $2500. The package covers things like oil changes, filter swap overs and more.

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VERDICT

The second-generation X2 has made a discreet debut in BMW showrooms, yet its design is striking enough to merit a second glance.

Priced nearly $14,000 higher than its predecessor, BMW maintains that the increase is justified by a comprehensive redesign along with substantial enhancements in technology and safety features.

While the X2 performs admirably in many areas, its firmer ride and lighter steering may diminish the appeal of the M35i model. Conversely, the xDrive20i, particularly when equipped with a few additional enhancement packs, likely offers enough appeal for most buyers.

This model is well-suited for those using the small SUV primarily for urban living, but can handle the winding roads of rural areas with ease.

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