BMW has enjoyed a rave amount of success with their X-line of crossovers. They’re practically everywhere in my neck of the woods, and the portfolio envelops the entire spectrum, ranging from the supcompact X1 to the full-size, three-row X7. However, one model has struggled to find its footing, so BMW has given it a complete overhaul. Enter the 2024 BMW X2 xDrive28i.
The second-generation X2’s new design is striking and attractive. Gone is the forgettable and slightly awkward look from its predecessor that failed to draw a clear distinction from the X1, replaced with a front-end design that is cohesive with the bigger SUVs in the BMW family. It commands instant attention, with the signature kidney grille and twin headlights more pronounced than before, and the side profile features more of a coupe-like silhouette, like the X4 and X6. This new look, coupled with the price tag — more on that later — is sure to appeal to younger crossover shoppers who want a BMW badge.
Inside, the X2 adapts the latest minimalistic approach we’ve seen in the X1. It has BMW’s latest iDrive for infotainment, but there is no rotary knob, instead asking users to input commands through the touchscreen display atop the dashboard. While we do miss the dial as well as separate climate controls for quick adjustments, this new layout does look significantly cleaner. Plus, the user experience is not too bad once you get used to using voice commands instead of relying on touch.
As before, the X2 offers two powertrain choices, and they’re both 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engines. Our base xDrive28i tester has the base setup rated at 241 horsepower, and BMW clocks a zero-to-100 km/h sprint in 6.5 seconds. Fuel economy is rated at 9.7 L/100 km in the city, 7.1 highway, and 8.5 combined; we observed 8.7 L/100 km, right in line with the ratings. The X2 M35i model gets a power bump to a healthy 312 hp, and manages to reach 100 km/h from rest in as little as 5.4 seconds, but it is a touch thirstier on gas. Both powertrains recommend premium fuel to fill their 54-litre tanks.
Despite the lower output, the xDrive28i is no slouch thanks to the whopping 295 lb-ft of torque arriving at a very early 1,500 RPM, as well as the very slick-shifting seven-speed double-clutch transmission. [Hey, that’s the name of the site! —Ed.] As such, the X2 feels quite fast in the city, charging up to the speed off the line quickly. It does run out of breath on the highway, but the Sport Boost function that comes with the optional M Sport package — it gives the X2 an extra surge of power for 10 seconds by holding onto the downshift paddle — was quite useful for merging and overtaking.
In terms of handling, the X2 has quick reflexes thanks to the responsive Sport Steering and Adaptive M suspension upgrades, as part of the M Sport package. Unfortunately, the feel behind that thick M-branded steering wheel is quite boosted and artificial, but this is a common complaint across almost all other compact crossovers these days. There are various drive modes delivered through the My Modes menu, but we did not notice too big of a difference in terms of how it drives.
The X2 has decent space up front and the sport seats — again, as part of the M Sport package — is quite supportive. The rear seats can accommodate three people, but is best used for two as it is rather narrow and headroom is at a premium due to the heavily sloped roof. Cargo space is decent for a sub-compact crossover at 560 litres, and it expands to 1,470 when the rear seatbacks are folded.
All X2s come standard with the latest version of Forward Collision Mitigation that can detect cyclists and pedestrian who are approaching the vehicle when turning right as well as oncoming traffic during a left turn, and take the necessary action to try and prevent the collision. There is also a new exit warning function added to the Active Blind Spot Detection that warn occupants of approaching vehicles or cyclists when the door is opened.
The X2 xDrive28i starts at $48,800, which is quite reasonable for a subcompact luxury crossover with a BMW badge. Our tester had the optional M Sport, Premium Enhanced, and Advanced Drive Assitance packages, as well as the optional Vegas Red Metallic paint job, bringing the as-tested total to $60,200.
We expect the X2’s drastic redesign to serve young buyers well. It is trendy, easy to live with, laden with tech, and if you go easy with the options, you can keep the price tag under $55,000. For that kind of money, the 2024 BMW X2 xDrive28i is a pretty compelling package, and we expect it will make a much bigger splash in this highly competitive segment than its predecessor ever did.
