Patents filed with the Japanese authorities reveal that the production model of the upcoming BMW X2 will largely be similar to its lightly camouflaged concept model previewed at the Paris Motor Show in 2016. Slated to be produced alongside the X1 at BMW's Regensburg factory in Germany, the car will slot between the second generation X1 and the current X3.
A brace of 150hp, 189hp and 230hp 2.0-litre diesels bearing xDrive18d, xDrive20d and xDrive25d badges will be available from the car's launch in the international markets. Six-speed manual or automatic gearboxes will be available across the range.
One petrol option will be available initially, the xDrive20i, with a 2.0-litre turbocharged unit producing 191hp. A 2.0-litre turbo petrol variant capable of producing approximately 304hp is expected to be introduced later and it is likely to have an M badging akin to the 2 Series M40i. However, an X2 M is unlikely to arrive anytime soon.
The new X2 will be based on the same platform as the Mini Countryman. BMW has confirmed that the SUV, following examples of the larger X4 and X6, will sport a uniquely styled steel body.
Recent spy pictures suggest that the X2 will be significantly longer and wider than the X1, with a shorter rear overhang and high-set bonnet. The extreme angle of the tailgate is designed to give the X2 a more coupé-like silhouette, differentiating it from the X1.
Scheduled to go on sale globally next year, the X2 will lock horns with the likes of Range Rover Evoque, Land Rover Discovery Sport and Volvo XC60.