X-Tra Appeal

BMW’s new urban crossover is funkier than the X1 and offers a zippier drive.

BMW already has five SUVs in its X family, but it is not quite done yet in vying for attention in the urban crossover segment. Currently in the works is the jumbo-sized X7, flagship model of the X lineup above the X5.

Slotting between the popular entry-level X1 and the thirdgeneration X3 is an all-new X2. Underpinning the newest X is BMW’s UKL2 platform shared with its upsized MINI cousins (Countryman and Clubman), its 2 Series Active/ Gran Tourer siblings and the X1.

Unlike any other BMW SUV right now, the X2 has its own stand-alone design that is a cross between coupe and hatchback. Think Mercedes-Benz GLA, but sharper-looking.

The X2 Sports Activity Coupe (SAC) is also the most compact member of the X family. Compared to the X1, the X2 is 79mm shorter from bumper to bumper (4360mm), 72mm lower (1526mm) and a bit wider (by 3mm, to 1824mm).

The X2 has a sweeping roofline capped by a prominent roof spoiler at the rear windscreen, with minimal overhangs front and rear. The chiselled X2 looks positively athletic, an impression reinforced by the big-bore twin exhaust pipes, which have the same 90mm diameter as the tailpipes of the X6.

The visually squat X2 looks more so with the 10mm-lower M Sport suspension, which comes with the M Sport X package. Even with the reduced ride height, the subsequent ground clearance of 172mm is enough to handle urban humps or “ponding” encounters.

Styling elements specific to the X2 include a kidney grille that is flared at its base (a first for the Bimmer identifier) and BMW roundels on the C-pillars, which are reminiscent of classic BMW coupes such as the 2000 CS and 3.0 CSL.

A hexagonal theme dominates the frontal view of the vehicle – from the bumper air-scoop surround, to the air intakes’ mesh detailing, to the hexagonal LED daytime running lights.