BMW SUVS at the double
X2 M35i delivers 302bhp Hybrid X5 claims 134mpg
Hot X2 M35i and plug-in hybrid X5 revealed
BMW has bookended its SUV portfolio with two new additions: a performance version of its X2 crossover and a plug-in hybrid version of the new X5. And both models will arrive in UK showrooms in the coming months.
First up is the X2 M35i, which acts as a flagship variant in the crossover range and the first ever M-branded model to feature a four-cylinder engine.
It’s powered by a 2.0-litre petrol turbo developing 302bhp and 450Nm of torque. This sends power to BMW’S all-wheel-drive system via an eightspeed automatic gearbox. When fitted with launch control, it can sprint from 0-62mph in a claimed 4.9 seconds.
Alongside the performance upgrade, chassis and suspension revisions are said to have sharpened the handling, while a tweaked steering system aims to deliver a sportier feel, according to BMW. The adaptive M Sport suspension features two selectable modes to adjust the set-up, and a locking limited-slip differential on the front axle, uprated brakes and new 19-inch alloys round off the upgrades.
Marking the car out visually are a sportier front bumper with redesigned air intakes. Around the back there’s an M Sport rear spoiler, while the tweaked rear bumper houses an M Sport exhaust.
At the other end of the SUV line-up, BMW has introduced the plug-in hybrid X5 xdrive45e iperformance, to give it its full name. This is powered by a 3.0-litre turbocharged six-cylinder petrol engine – supported by an 82kw electric motor – for a combined power output of 394bhp.
Despite the hefty power figure, BMW says the plug-in hybrid X5 is capable of 134mpg and CO2 emissions of 50g/km. It promises an electric range of around 50 miles at speeds of up to 85mph.
Both the petrol engine and electric motor deliver their power via the SUV’S eight-speed Steptronic transmission and xdrive all-wheel-drive system. As standard, the X5 iperformance is fitted
with air suspension and electronicallycontrolled dampers. However, as an optional extra, buyers can spec uprated suspension with integral active steering, allowing the rear wheels to turn by a few degrees for extra agility at low speeds, and increased stability at higher speeds.
As BMW has positioned the battery low down in the floor of the X5 hybrid, practicality isn’t dramatically affected; a 500-litre boot capacity increases to 1,716 litres when the rear seats are folded down. That’s a penalty of 150 litres over a standard X5.