2024 BMW iX2 review: First Australian drive

The BMW i3 was the first electric vehicle I ever drove. Its design was divisive, yet undeniably cool. With its almost alien-like styling, it felt as if a moon rover had been given a cabin and placed in a showroom.

Today, BMW's electric cars closely resemble their petrol-powered counterparts.

By the end of this year, BMW plans to offer 16 battery electric variants across eight models, significantly easing the shift to electric vehicles.

Working in this field has profoundly changed my perspective on the feasibility of switching to electric cars for many people, particularly when compared to their petrol counterparts.

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This is especially evident with the iX2, which, when driven consecutively with the X2 petrol models, strongly reinforces the case for electric vehicles.

For it's second generation update the X2 adds the iX2 to the line-up for the first time, a battery electric version of its sporty five seater small SUV. Or as BMW likes to call it, their Sports Activity Coupe.

We had the opportunity to drive this new iteration down across the south of Tasmania to see if the car was capable of handling the windy terrain of where surprisingly quite a few BMWs already live.

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?
• Efficiency
• How safe is it?
• Warranty and running costs
• VERDICT

How much is it, and what do you get?

The iX2 lineup in Australia will feature two models.

The entry-level iX2 eDrive20 variant is set to arrive in Australia by July this year, following a similar launch approach as last year's iX1, which also made buyers wait several months for the more economical version.

The incoming iX2 xDrive20 is listed at $82,900 before on-road costs, carrying a $7,000 premium over the entry-level petrol X2 variant, and is front-wheel drive as opposed to the all-wheel drive system on the X2.

BMW has intentionally priced its electric vehicles below the luxury car tax threshold to make them more affordable for consumers.

Nick Raman, BMW's Product and Business Communications Manager, noted that this pricing strategy was carefully considered. For context, an ix2 XDrive30 in Europe is priced over 60,000 euros, which translates to around 106,000 Australian dollars.

That means there are now six variants that sit below this threshold with the iX1 is entry point to electric at $78,900 plus on road costs.

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The BMW iX2 eDrive20 features a 65kWh battery and a front electric motor, which produces 150kW and 250Nm and achieves a claimed range of 455 kilometres which will be confirmed when it arrives down under as well as consumption figures.

In comparison, the iX2 xDrive30 uses the same 65kWh battery but includes dual electric motors, one at the front and one at the rear, providing 230kW and 494Nm, for an identical 0-100km/h time with the iX1 xDrive30 of 5.6 seconds. This is when the boost mode is activated.

The iX2 xDrive30 offers a WLTP-certified range of up to 395km.

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Features

As BMW planned, the iX2 line-up imitates that of the iX1- with the XDrive20 offering an almost identical set of features. Key feature differentiators on the iX2 are larger wheels, acoustic glazing and lack of roof rails.

As a driver you're equipped with a modern cabin that is directed towards you featuring a curved display built by a 10.7-inch infotainment screen and a 10.3-inch digital dashboard, creating a cockpit that is both driver-centric and highly functional.

Every control is strategically placed for optimal accessibility, and the infotainment system, compatible with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, connects swiftly. This system is powered by BMW’s iDrive 9, which is based on Android's open-source platform.

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The front seats are power-adjustable, with the driver's seat featuring a memory function for up to three drivers. The $3600 Enhancement Package adds luxury with a panoramic glass sunroof, a heated steering wheel, a 12-speaker Harman/Kardon audio system, and a massage function for the front seats.

Complimentary with every sale is a 12 months subscription to Chargefox public chargers – Australia's largest charging network.

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Interior comfort, space and storage

The interior of the iX2Drive30 we evaluated is meticulously crafted, with a focus on soft touch surfaces that enhance its luxurious ambiance.

The seats are upholstered in BMW's exclusive 'Veganza' vegan leather, providing exceptional comfort and a convincingly authentic leather feel.

In response to feedback about the difficulty of swiftly navigating the menu, the new operating system now includes a feature for quick access to links by a simple swipe down. However, users should be aware that these links can be overly sensitive and may activate unintentionally.

BMW has introduced the 'Digital Premium' subscription, priced at $9.99 per month or $109 annually. This service adds capabilities such as installing apps to enhance drive modes, provide live maps, and control lighting features, and includes a 90-day trial for customers to explore its benefits.

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Storage solutions in the iX2 are cleverly integrated, though somewhat limited.

The centre console is compact, perfectly sized for small essentials like a card wallet, lipstick, or a tub of gum. Larger items can be stored in the open area below, and there is a specially designed upright wireless phone charger at the front of the car.

Rear headroom is naturally compromised because of the sloping roof but if your passengers aren't too tall it shouldn't prove a headache. Similarly, two adults can fit okay, but I wouldn't be pushing for a third in the centre.

Nine exterior paint colours are available, with Alpine White as the only standard option. Inside, there are five trim options, all available at no additional cost on the top-spec xDrive30.

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How do rivals compare on value?

The BMW iX2 will go head-to-head with competitors such as the Lexus UX300e and Mercedes-Benz EQA . But there are plenty of electrified options vying for attention like the Volvo C40 and Polestar 2.

Dimensionally similar, the EQA is slightly taller with the recently added EQA 250+ priced from $84,900 before on-road costs also slips below the LCT threshold. It can drive up to 426km on an WLTP cycle.

Available in two grades, the UX300e pricing sits at $80,720- $88,190 for Luxury and Sports Luxury models before on-roads. Both have a humble output of 150kW and 300Nm, and a range of 440km on WLTP testing.

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What is it like to drive?

The basics

With the iX2 xDrive20 hitting our shores later by July of this year, our test vehicle in Hobart was the higher-specced xDrive30.

The powertrain of the iX2 accelerates quickly and smoothy. The boost mode on the steering column takes this even further but doesn't produce any huge amount of jerk which is a great thing. When at speed there was some noticeable wind and road noise, which could be easily drowned out with some music.

Electric torque is consistently a highlight, delivered smoothly and responsively in the iX2. A boost mode activated by the shift paddle adds an element of fun, though it's not overly dramatic.

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The electric iX2 offers a smoother driving experience compared to its petrol counterpart, especially with the switch between electric power and regenerative braking which happened quite seamlessly.

However, while performing on Tasmania's roads the SUV felt a bit aggressively into road imperfections, especially when equipped with 20-inch alloy wheels on our test car, leading to bumps being distinctly felt through the steering wheel. While it's not uncomfortable, it lacks the polished ride quality of other more premium cars in the BMW garage.

As a daily driver on smoother, inner-city roads you wouldn't have too much trouble. It's the trickier potholes where the car finds challenge, but nothing that can't be sorted with a strong-worded email to your local council.

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Efficiency

Power consumption is rated at 18.5kWh with a range of up to 395km. Unfortunately on test we weren't able to assess the stop for a charge-up but BMW asserts a 10-80% charge takes just 29 minutes.

So the great news is although the range does sit lower than some competitors, the DC charging rate reaches 130kW with max AC charging at 22kW. You'll be back up and charged in what will feel like no time.

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How safe is it?

ANCAP testing will likely not be pursued according to BMW, but previously the X2 held a five-star score based on Euro NCAP assessments.

It's important to note that this score was carried over form the X1 which shares many similarities, but didn't account for the iX1.

The iX2 xDrive30 is fitted with the plenty of safety, including:

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Warranty and running costs

BMW Australia includes a five-year, unlimited-kilometre warranty with every new vehicle.

For the iX2, there is also a Service Inclusive package available, which covers five years or 80,000km for a cost of $2200.

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VERDICT

The iX2 has arrived on our shores in its top-spec iteration, offering half of the pie of what to expect from the full lineup.

What stands out is how this model serves as an excellent example for those considering a switch to electric vehicles, made even more appealing by its attractive price point for prospective X2 buyers, particularly if you're drawn to its distinctive sloping roofline.

However, while the iX2 impresses, it faces stiff competition. There are several other small electric SUVs on the market that offer softer rides, longer driving ranges, and greater practicality and visibility. Despite these challenges, the iX2 remains a compelling option. Its stylish design, competitive pricing, and advanced features make it a vehicle worth considering for those exploring the expanding universe of electric SUVs.

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