New BMW X2, iX2 break cover

BMW has taken the wraps off the second-gen X2 SUV, which is now a larger, more rakish SUV-coupe that also gets an electric version, the iX2.

• BMW X2, iX2 get sharp, coupe-SUV design
• iX2 has a WLTP certified range of around 450km
• Top-spec X2 gets a 312hp, 2.0-litre turbo-petrol

New BMW X2, iX2 dimensions, aerodynamics

The new X2 is 200mm longer, 21mm wider and 64mm taller than the previous model, and naturally, gets enhanced practicality by adding 115 litres of luggage capacity and additional leg room for rear passengers. The signature kidney grille has expanded too and is highlighted by an optional ring of LED running lights dubbed Iconic Glow. The larger grille also hosts active cooling flaps that automatically close when not required, improving the X2’s aerodynamics.

On the iX2, the grille is completely sealed off to further boost aerodynamics and extend range. In conjunction with extra underbody aero work, the iX2 has a drag coefficient of 0.25, which is less than the petrol's and contributes to a WLTP-certified range of up to 450km – an improvement over the iX1 with which it shares its platform. Like the iX1, the iX2 touts a maximum charging rate of 130kW on DC connections, which is slower than key rivals like the Hyundai Ioniq 5 and Kia EV6, which can charge at up to 350kW.

New BMW iX2 charging, powertrain

However, BMW said the iX2 is capable of charging at full speed more consistently than its previous EVs, thanks to revised software: a smoother drop-off curve as the battery approaches full as opposed to the previous ‘stepped’ system means that full charging speed is possible even from 50 percent.

The iX2’s regenerative braking has similar adaptive functionality, actively adjusting the force of the system according to traffic conditions. It’s capable of feeding the battery at up to 120kW when braking (or 60kW under pure deceleration) and its strength can be manually overridden through the touchscreen infotainment system.

The iX2’s dual-motor, four-wheel-drive powertrain makes 313hp and 494Nm of torque, allowing it to dispatch the 0-100kph sprint in 5.6sec. The fastest variant in the new X2 line-up, however, is the petrol M35i, which is aimed directly at the Mercedes-AMG GLA 35.

New BMW X2 powertrain

As far as powertrains go, the new X2 comes with a 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine in the xDrive28i variant, delivering 241hp, and capable of doing a 0-100kph sprint in 6.2 seconds. The top-spec X2 gets a more potent 2.0-litre unit, producing 312hp propelling the SUV to 100kph in just 5.2 seconds. All variants receive the latest version of BMW’s iDrive system, with a 10.25-inch digital driver's display and a 10.7-inch touchscreen.

In India, BMW has not introduced the X2 yet, but the current-gen X1 is on sale in India and the iX1 was introduced in our market recently. The new X2 and iX2 will rival the Audi Q3 and Q4 e-tron overseas.