BMW X2 xDrive20d 2018 Review

The 2018 BMW X2 wedges its way into BMWs X-car line up, now tallying six SUVs in total. But to call the 2018 BMW X2 an SUV may be a stretch of the imagination. Built on the X1 platform, the 2018 BMW X2 is shorter (4360mm), wider (1824mm) and sits lower (1526mm) than its donor vehicle.

We were impressed at the international launch of the new 2018 BMW X2, expressed mixed feelings when the X2 hit the Australian tarmac and now we’re trying it again in top-spec X2 xDrive20d guise. First impressions tell me this is like no other BMW X-car. Whether that’s good or bad remains to be seen.

The 2018 BMW X2 staggered its arrival Down Under but you can now choose from a three model line-up that includes the choice of front- and all-wheel-drive movement, petrol or diesel power and seven-speed dual clutch or eight-speed sports automatic transmission.

The X2 sDrive18i starts from $49,900, the X2 sDrive20i from $55,900 and the range tops out with the X2 xDrive20d priced from $59,900 – the latter two featuring the M Sport X

Package as standard (M Sport suspension, bigger wheels and slick trims).
The BMW X2s $1190 metallic paintwork sets the tone for options aplenty.
You get a three-year/unlimited-kilometre warranty and a condition-based service schedule applies.

When you’re tired of sedans, bored with regular hatch backs, beyond a sports car (reasons abound) and don’t want to be cast with the typical SUV clan, the 2018 BMW X2 is for you. It’s the most un-SUV-like SUV around. And despite BMWs already plump array of high-riding options, it feels and looks different – in a good way. Not an easy task.

The X2’s packaging is good. Positioned low in the driver’s seat, the front of cabin is cosy and well appointed. Oddment storage is good given its size and forward visibility great. Rear quarter, not so great.

The second-row ticks the basics such as directional air vents, a 12-volt charge point, cup holders and two reading lights. The hard backs of the driver and front passenger seats feel robust enough for the family load (think kids’ feet). Legroom for the centre seating position is compromised, however.

The drive? The drive is fun. It feels considerably more sporting than its X1 donor with a stiffer body, added camber up front and good dose of torque (400Nm) delivering a truly sporting feel. Paired to an eight speed sports automatic transmission, it moves through the gears nicely.

The three-model 2018 BMW X2 range is on sale now, with no talk of additional variants at this stage.

If you’ve mastered the art of subtly standing out the BMW X2 is your calling. Bavarian enough to count but with a style twist, the X2 dares to stray from the norm with a new silhouette. Doing so more convincingly than the X6 or X4, the little X2 starts on the front foot.

A 470-litre boot, 40:20:40 split folding seats and 2000kg braked towing capacity makes the BMW X2 a bit of an overachiever where gear-heavy weekends away are concerned.

That kind of flexibility will keep the (very) small family market happy, too. But a proper, high-riding cavernous SUV it is not.

Despite its pinched proportions, second row accommodation is reasonable. Three kids: can cope. Three adults: intimate. The transmission hump renders the centre seat the dud position. A high window line may make outward visibility an issue for younger kids.
Cup holders (2 x front and rear) and oddment storage are well sorted, but no keyless entry was a downer.

The prestige compact SUV (over $40k) exists in a niche but surprisingly well-represented segment comprising around nine contenders. The 2018 BMW X2 finds itself up against Audi’s Q2 and Q3 and the segment’s top-selling Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class.

It’s SUV nameplate may attract the small family buyers vying for great flexibility, but the X2 will disappoint where second row space and load versatility is concerned. Where it will win buyers over is its ride and handling balance, helping the X2 to standout in what feels like a token segment that is more about looks and less about lifestyle.

If your move into the SUV world is one of choice rather than necessity, the 2018 BMW X2 will be a great entree to a new body style.

There’s no real jacked-up ride, but instead you’ll get a damn fine steer and great fun at the wheel. We expect you’ll be eyeing-off a Porsche Macan in no time. Baby steps.

How much does the 2018 BMW X2 xDrive20d M Sport X Package cost?
Price: $59,900 (plus on-road costs)
Engine: 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo-diesel
Output: 141kW/400Nm
Transmission: Eight-speed automatic
Fuel: 5.1L/100km (ADR Combined)
CO2: 134g/km (ADR Combined)
Safety Rating: Five-star ANCAP (2015)