BMW has released a teaser image of its 2017 BMW X2 concept that will make way for a production model set to go on sale in international markets in the latter half of 2017.
Sister model to the recently introduced second-generation X1, the X2 will become the sixth SUV model to join BMW’s international line-up and the second to be based on its highly versatile UKL platform – the same structure that underpins the upcoming second-generation Mini Countryman, which is also planned to get its first public airing at the Paris motor show.
Conceived as a sporting alternative to the X1, the new X2 has been described as being “more adventurous” in appearance, despite the two sharing the same basic structural hard points. Prototypes seen testing revealed that the production version of the X2 shares looks with the X1, like the buff front end dominated by a large kidney-shaped grille and heavily profiled bonnet.
Further back, it boasts a more heavily raked windscreen and significantly lower roofline than its mechanically identical sibling, giving it a more sporty profile. The rear gets a hatchback-style tailgate that features a separate opening rear window for ease of loading in tight space.
Inside, the X2 shares its dashboard and cabin appointments with the second-generation X1. Despite similar dimensions, the new X2 will not offer the same space or luggage capacity, because of its lower roofline and more heavily angled tailgate.
As with the X1, the X2 will offer a range of transversely mounted four-cylinder petrol and diesel engines. These include one petrol variant in the form of the X2 xDrive20i, which runs a turbocharged 2.0-litre engine delivering 192hp. It will be joined by three diesels, all powered by BMW’s widely used turbocharged 2.0-litre diesel – the X2 xdrive18d with 150hp, the X2 xDrive20d with 193hp and the X2 xDrive25d with 230hp.
Gearbox choices will include a standard six-speed manual or optional six-speed automatic along with the choice of either rear- or four-wheel drive in combination with the least powerful diesel engine option used by the X2 xDrive18d.
The BMW X2 concept will be officially unveiled at the Paris motor show. When launched, the production model will rival the likes of the Range Rover Evoque.