Convertible BMW X2 on the cards

BMW is plotting a drop-top version of its soon to be launched X2 SUV that will go head-to-head with the Range Rover Evoque Convertible, it has been revealed.

According to Spanish car website, Motor.es, the German car-maker has already conducted feasibility studies for an X2 convertible and believes that, thanks to the small Evoque cabrio, there's now a customer base ready and waiting for another SUV convertible.

As well as a X2 drop-top, BMW is also claimed to be secretly developing a sporty three-door version that will arrive alongside the X2 convertible in 2020.

Rumoured to be named the X2 Sport (BMW trademarked the name in 2014), the third X2 variant is likely to sacrifice some interior space for a more rakish coupe-like profile and could provide the basis for an M version with more than 250kW down the line.

The reason for the expansion to three body styles, says Motor.es, is to try and capitalise on the huge success of the Evoque by stealing its sales.

Range Rover currently sells around 100,000 examples of its mid-size two-door, three-door and five-door SUV annually, notching up more than 600,000 sales since the Evoque went on sale in 2011.

As well two other derivatives, BMW has already confirmed a cheaper front-wheel drive version.

In Australia, pricing of the X2 will kick off at $55,900 for the sDrive20i, which will be the variant available from launch.

In the future BMW Australia says it will introduce further variants including diesel and three-cylinder powertrains.

The X2 cabrio, meanwhile, is expected to be priced at around $85,000 -- almost the same as the current Evoque Convertible.