Kentish Express Ashford & District
Staying ahead of the field
BMW’s new X2 is quite a radical departure from its predecessor. Ted Welford tries it out in Lisbon.
The X2 has always been an oddball choice in BMW’s extensive lineup of SUVs. Its ‘X’ models with even numbers typically signify a coupe-SUV, but the X2 was never that – rather a slightly raised hatchback that didn’t exactly scream ‘SUV’ nor come with the practicality to go with it. Despite that, as one of BMW’s smallest SUVs, it didn’t stop buyers with almost 400,000 sold since its introduction in 2018. Now the German carmaker is back with a new model, bringing an electric version for the first time along with various other major leaps forward.
WHAT’S NEW?
Compare the old and the new X2 and very little is shared in common. This is a completely new SUV, sharing underpinnings with the latest X1, and is significantly larger as a result. BMW has also thrown all of its latest technology at the X2, as it uses the now-familiar Curved Display interior. There’ll even be a ‘hands-off’ driving feature available on it in the UK, as and when our legislation permits it.
WHAT’S IT LIKE TO DRIVE?
Though refinement is a typical EV trait, the iX2 shines especially in this area, with a hushed driving experience, even at higher speeds on the motorway. While electric cars are typically silent, you can have what BMW calls ‘IconicSounds’ turned on, giving the iX2 a futuristic sound to amplify the experience. The ride quality may not perfection but the iX2 is an enjoyable steer by electric SUV standards, with a very linear - and brisk response from the electric motors, allowing you to push on more than you would feel comfortable in its rivals. Though the iX2 is equipped with 130kW DC rapid charging capability – allowing a 10 to 80% top-up to take place in half an hour – the range, especially for an SUV of this size and price, isn’t great. Audi’s Q4 etron Sportback can travel around 50 miles further from a charge, for example.
HOW DOES IT LOOK?
BMW has addressed the previous X2’s lack of coherency with its other coupe-SUVs and now boasts a sleeker sloped rear end that brings it in line with the firm’s X4 and X6. It doesn’t scream ‘electric car’ like many cars in its class do, though, which will appeal to those not wanting to shout about the switch to EVs. Only a blanked-off grille with its own unique pattern helps to tell it apart from petrol option.
WHAT’S IT LIKE INSIDE?
If you’re familiar with modern BMW interiors, little about the iX2’s interior will come as a surprise. The iDrive controller is no more and in place are two large digital displays that BMW calls a ‘Curved Display’. Our test car had a few glitches but these will likely be ironed out as the screens usually work flawlessly in BMW’s other models, albeit the lack of physical controls – and the daunting amount of functions integrated – takes time to get your head around. But the main change with the new X2 is perhaps just how much bigger it is than its predecessor. For a car to grow in size by 20cm in a generation is quite significant, and while it previously felt a bit compromised as a family car, there’s no problem here. Even with the sloping roofline, adults will be about to get comfortable, though be mindful of the optional panoramic sunroof eating into available headroom. At 525 litres, the iX2’s boot is a great size as well, with dedicated space beneath the load floor to keep cables.
THE VERDICT
BMW leads the way when it comes to premium electric cars – at least against its core competitors Audi and Mercedes – and the iX2 is another fine addition to its expansive EV line-up. The X2 in general is a far more accomplished car than its predecessor, with its coupe styling no doubt appealing to buyers in this increasingly popular space. But though the X2 is a far more substantial car than its predecessor, the price has jumped substantially as well, making it a little harder to recommend than it should be.