All around the world, March 2018 will be the release date for the newest addition to BMW’s popular X-series range of SUVs, the BMW X2.  The German marque have certainly embraced the possibilities of adding the even numbers to the classic series range (3, 5 and 7).  At the time of writing, even though March 2018 is the release date for this smaller SUV around the world, BMW Australia hasn’t yet released the full specs and details on its official website, so we’ve had to glean what we can from more loquacious global BMW outlets that have let enthusiasts know so we can pass the knowledge on to interested buyers and readers (curiously, this reviewer got hold of a spec sheet for BMW Group New Zealand. Close enough but go figure).

In a nutshell, the BMW X2 is a smaller five-door softroader SUV.  It’s got some commonality with the other vehicles in the X-series range, such as the higher stance and the overall boxy silhouette, but the designers really seem to have emphasised the “sports” part of “sports utility vehicle” in the looks.  There’s certainly something rather assertive, even aggressive, about the front end in particular, with the combination of glossy black and the chrome emphasising the lines.  The LED fog lights seem to make the whole SUV look larger than it actually is, and the twin headlights (LED technology with cornering ability) are bold.  The lines tend more towards the sleek and smooth rather than the chunky geometrics and “squovals” of the past, which makes the overall package very visually pleasing.  A range of paint colours are available either as standard or at extra cost, not just the yellow that BMW highlights in its teasers (my favourite would be the dark blue if we can’t get the bright peacock blue that comes with the M-Sport package only), and the body sits high and proud on 18-inch (S-Drive 18i) or 19-inch (S-Drive 20i) Y-spoke alloy wheels that are particularly eye-catching.

If we’re due to get the same BMW X2 lineup as our rivals across the Tasman, then BMW fans will have two variants of the BMW X2 to choose from: the S-Drive 18i and the S-Drive 20i (and maybe the possibility of M-Sport and M-Sport X packages as well).  Both of these share the seven-speed steptronic transmission with double clutch, although the 20i throws in paddle shifters.  The BMW X2 S-Drive 18i features a nice little three-cylinder unit capable of delivering 100 kW of power and 220 Nm of torque while managing a rather thrifty combined fuel consumption test figure of 5.4 L/100 km.  The BMW X2 S-drive 20i takes things up a notch with a 4-cylinder engine capable of putting out 141 kW of power and with the torque curve peaking at 280 Nm.  In spite of the increased power of this engine, the fuel consumption figure is only a fraction higher at 5.9 L/100 km.

In both models of BMW X2, you’ll probably get the ability to select your preferred driving mode, including BMW’s ECO Pro, which is just right for around town if you are on the hunt for an SUV for family use.  Both models have a comprehensive stability package that includes ABS brakes with braking assistance, cornering brake control and dynamic traction control.  Driver aids for when you’re on the move come in the form of a lane departure warning, approach control warning with light braking, and speed limit info that’s displayed in the instrument panel (I really hope we get this feature in Australia, as it would be very handy for driving around strange towns where you might miss the signs).  When it comes to standing still, you’ll be able to get the BMW X2 into the right spot with the parking assistant function, front and rear park distance control and a rear view camera. The S-Drive 20i also throws in active cruise control (as opposed to regular cruise control).

Overseas model shown

The seats – all five of them – come trimmed in black or oyster (no-cost option) Sensatec fabric, although you might want to splash out and get the optional perforated leather instead.  ISOFIX child seat preparation is provided, which will make more than just a few young parents happy, as will the automatic tailgate (great when you’ve got your arms full of wriggly toddler) and the 2-zone automatic climate control.  Although it’s not confirmed yet for Australia, navigation (6.5-inch display screen) is likely to come as standard, along with Bluetooth connectivity and the chance to sign up for BMW Connected+ to get real-time traffic information and more.  There’s plenty of storage space, including the load-through system.

Step up to the BMW X2 S-Drive 20i and you also get heated sports seats for the driver and front passenger, M-Sport suspension and the M-badged leather-wrapped steering wheel, as well as some bonuses in the exterior styling, such as double round tail pipes left and right.

Although we haven’t got long to wait until the BMW X2 reaches Australia, I’m sure that it’s certainly going to be worth the wait and should be popular with a wide range of drivers across the country.

Current model series include:

• BMW X2 S-Drive 18i
• BMW X2 S-Drive 20i

For any more information on the BMW X2, or for that matter any other new car, contact one of our friendly consultants on 1300 303 181. If you’d like some fleet discount pricing (yes even for private buyers!), we can submit vehicle quotes requests out to our national network of BMW dealers and come back with pricing within 24 hours. Private Fleet – car buying made easy!