The allure of luxury brands often starts with their entry-level models, and for German giants like BMW, Audi, and Mercedes-Benz, subcompact crossovers serve as the gateway. These vehicles are designed to attract a younger demographic seeking a taste of premium motoring without breaking the bank. BMW’s contender in this segment is the X2, a stylish sibling to the more conventionally shaped X1 SUV. Updated for 2024, the second-generation BMW X2 aims to carve its own niche with a sleek design and sporty intentions.
Recently, I had the opportunity to put the 2024 BMW X2 xDrive28i through its paces on the winding roads nestled in the Appalachian Mountains. My experience offered a mixed bag of impressions. While the X2 impressed with its energetic driving dynamics, refined interior, and the assurance of standard all-wheel drive, some aspects left me wanting more. Specifically, the polarizing exterior styling, compromised rear visibility, and the rapidly escalating price with optional extras were notable drawbacks. My test vehicle, as configured, reached a final sticker price of $52,745, highlighting how quickly the cost can climb.
Image alt text: 2024 BMW X2 xDrive28i front view on mountain road, showcasing its subcompact crossover design for a bmw x2 review.
Exterior Styling: A Matter of Taste?
BMW offers the X2 in two main versions: the base xDrive28i, starting at $42,000, and the more potent M35i xDrive, beginning at $51,400. Both variants come equipped with all-wheel drive. My test X2 xDrive28i was generously equipped with options, including a $1,200 Storm Bay Metallic paint finish, which contributed to pushing the total price north of $50,000.
However, the exterior design of the new X2 is arguably its most contentious point. The front end is dominated by an oversized iteration of BMW’s signature kidney grille. This prominent grille, while undeniably BMW, feels disproportionate and somewhat overwhelms the front fascia. While the LED headlights are sharply styled and the grille itself features an interesting lattice pattern, the overall impression of the front is somewhat unbalanced.
Image alt text: BMW X2 xDrive28i in Storm Bay Metallic paint, highlighting the controversial large kidney grille in this bmw x2 review.
The side profile further emphasizes the X2’s departure from traditional SUV aesthetics. The most significant visual distinction between the X1 and X2 is the latter’s sharply sloping, fastback roofline. This “SUV Coupe” design, a trend that has persisted for over a decade, continues to be a polarizing choice. In the X2’s case, the raked roof doesn’t necessarily enhance its sporty appeal compared to the X1. Instead, it primarily compromises rearward visibility and impinges on both second-row headroom and cargo space. It’s a styling choice that seems to prioritize form over function.
Image alt text: Side view of the BMW X2 showcasing the fastback roofline and its impact on the vehicle’s silhouette for a bmw x2 review.
On a more positive note, the 19-inch double-spoke, bi-color alloy wheels on my test car were a stylish highlight. These wheels were part of the $2,500 M Sport Package, which also included adaptive suspension, sport seats, and BMW interior styling accents. The X2 boasts an impressive 8.1 inches of ground clearance, although its urban-focused design makes venturing off-road unlikely for most owners.
Image alt text: Close-up of the BMW X2’s 19-inch M double-spoke bi-color alloy wheels, part of the M Sport Package, detailed for a bmw x2 review.
Performance and Driving Dynamics: Peppy and Engaging
Under the hood, the X2 xDrive28i is powered by a familiar turbocharged four-cylinder engine, the BMW B48. This engine is a workhorse found across various BMW models, from the 2-Series to the 3-Series. In the X2 xDrive28i, the 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder produces a healthy 241 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque. The M35i xDrive trim elevates performance with a more potent version of the same engine, delivering 312 horsepower while maintaining the same torque figure. Both engines are paired with a responsive seven-speed double-clutch transmission and standard all-wheel drive.
Fuel economy for the X2 xDrive28i is EPA-rated at 24 mpg city, 33 mpg highway, and 28 mpg combined, figures that are competitive within the subcompact luxury crossover segment. A convenient feature is the remote engine start, activated by pressing the BMW logo on the key fob three times when in proximity to the car.
Image alt text: BMW X2’s 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, highlighting its 241 horsepower output for a performance focused bmw x2 review.
Driving the X2 is genuinely enjoyable. BMW has long touted itself as the purveyor of the “ultimate driving machine,” and while the X2 might not fully embody that lofty claim, it’s certainly an entertaining crossover to drive, especially on twisty roads. The adaptive suspension and Michelin tires on my test car contributed to confident cornering, while the steering was direct, albeit with somewhat muted feedback. The engine delivered ample power with minimal turbo lag, and the dual-clutch transmission provided quick and precise shifts.
In Sport Mode, the X2’s engine note is surprisingly engaging. While the sound is electronically enhanced, the turbo wastegate whoosh and exhaust burble create a satisfying soundtrack for spirited driving. BMW claims a 0-60 mph acceleration time of 6.2 seconds for the xDrive28i, but independent testing by Motor Trend suggests an even quicker 5.8 seconds. Regardless, the X2 offers brisk acceleration for its class. Furthermore, the optional M-Sport brakes proved to be exceptional, delivering consistent and confidence-inspiring stopping power, arguably some of the best in the entry-level luxury SUV category.
Image alt text: Interior view of the BMW X2’s front cabin, showcasing the driver-focused cockpit and premium materials for an interior focused bmw x2 review.
Interior and Technology: A Step Up in Luxury
While opinions on the X2’s exterior may be divided, the interior is a clear highlight. BMW has executed the cabin design exceptionally well, creating an environment that genuinely feels luxurious, moving beyond the sometimes-compromised “entry-level luxury” feel of previous generations. The fit and finish are excellent, and attention to detail is evident throughout, from the phone clip on the wireless charger to the mix of textures and materials used across the surfaces.
The centerpiece of the dashboard is a single-piece curved display, integrating a 10.7-inch central infotainment screen and a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster. BMW’s iDrive system, once criticized for its complexity, has evolved significantly over the past two decades. The new iDrive9 system is now remarkably intuitive and user-friendly, on par with the best in the segment. Screen quality is excellent, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard.
Image alt text: Close-up of the BMW X2’s curved display screen, highlighting the iDrive9 infotainment system in this technology section of the bmw x2 review.
Many vehicle functions, including headlights and climate control, are now integrated into the touchscreen, a common trend in modern cars. While touch-sensitive shortcut buttons to the left of the screen offer some quick access, physical controls would still be preferable for on-the-fly adjustments. The screen also houses the X2’s surround-view camera system, which includes a convenient built-in washer for the rear camera lens.
Image alt text: BMW X2’s rear camera with integrated washer, demonstrating a practical feature for maintaining visibility in this bmw x2 review.
The heated, leather-wrapped steering wheel, adorned with BMW’s M Motorsport branding, is well-contoured and comfortable to grip during spirited driving. The digital instrument screen is clear and configurable, displaying information ranging from driving data to navigation. A color head-up display projects key information onto the windshield, further enhancing the driver’s experience. The seats are upholstered in imitation leather, which, in mocha color and with perforation, look and feel premium and provided good comfort on longer drives.
Image alt text: BMW X2’s M Sport steering wheel, emphasizing the sporty design and premium leather wrapping for a bmw x2 review.
Image alt text: BMW X2’s digital instrument cluster, showcasing its configurable display and modern design for a tech-focused bmw x2 review.
Image alt text: Front seats of the BMW X2 upholstered in mocha-colored imitation leather, highlighting the comfort and style for an interior section of a bmw x2 review.
Replacing a traditional gear lever, BMW has opted for a toggle-style shifter on the center console. This design choice frees up space in the center console, creating a more open and airy feel. It provides easy access to buttons for camera activation, drive mode selection, and volume control. This layout allows for a wireless charging pad and cupholders to be positioned in front of the center console, with additional storage space underneath. Beyond the wireless charger, occupants have access to USB-C ports next to the cupholders. An optional interior camera, part of a premium package, is located above the center console. This camera can be used for selfies and videos, and it can also be activated by the security system if the alarm is triggered.
Image alt text: BMW X2’s toggle-style shifter on the center console, illustrating the modern design and space-saving approach in this bmw x2 review.
Image alt text: BMW X2’s center console showcasing the wireless charger, cupholders, and under-console storage, emphasizing practicality within the bmw x2 review.
Image alt text: BMW X2’s optional interior selfie camera, demonstrating a unique tech feature available in the premium package for a bmw x2 review.
The premium package also includes BMW’s Panorama Skyroof. This fixed glass roof, while not opening, significantly brightens the rear seat area, which can feel somewhat dark due to the sloping roofline and small rear window.
Image alt text: BMW X2’s Panorama Skyroof, highlighting the expansive glass roof and its benefit to cabin light in this bmw x2 review.
Practicality and Space: Style vs. Function
Rear-seat passengers in the X2 are provided with their own air vents, USB-C ports, and cupholders in the fold-down armrest. Legroom in the rear measures 36.7 inches, just slightly less than the X1’s 37 inches. However, headroom is where the X2 compromises due to its roofline. At 37.1 inches, rear headroom is more than two inches less than in the X1.
Image alt text: Rear seats of the BMW X2, showing rear passenger amenities and legroom in this practicality focused bmw x2 review.
Image alt text: Headroom in the BMW X2’s back seats, illustrating the reduced space due to the sloping roofline in this bmw x2 review.
Opening the power rear hatch reveals 25.3 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats. This is only marginally less than the X1’s 25.7 cubic feet. With the rear seats folded, cargo capacity expands to 51.7 cubic feet, which is 6.1 cubic feet less than the boxier X1. Additional storage is available under the rear cargo floor, housing a compact spare tire and tool kit.
Image alt text: BMW X2’s cargo space with rear seats up, highlighting the luggage capacity for a practicality section of a bmw x2 review.
Image alt text: Under-floor storage in the BMW X2’s cargo area, revealing the spare tire and tool kit in this bmw x2 review.
Safety and Driver Assistance
The BMW X2 comes standard with a comprehensive suite of safety and driver assistance features, including active blind-spot detection, frontal collision warning with city collision mitigation, lane departure warning, and active park distance control. However, features like adaptive cruise control and active lane assist require opting for the $1,700 Driving Assistance Package.
Image alt text: Front angle view of the BMW X2 xDrive28i, showcasing its safety and driver assistance sensor placement for a feature highlight in a bmw x2 review.
Conclusion: Fun, but Consider the Alternatives
The BMW X2 certainly has its merits. It offers a potent turbocharged engine, a well-executed and user-friendly interior, and a genuinely fun driving experience. However, the question remains: is it the best choice in its segment, or even within the BMW lineup?
Image alt text: The 2024 BMW X2 xDrive28i in gray, a concluding image for a balanced bmw x2 review.
The challenge for the X2 is that compelling alternatives exist, including within BMW’s own stable. The BMW X1 shares the same excellent powertrain and interior quality as the X2, but it presents a more conventional and arguably more appealing design, offers greater practicality with more space, and comes in at a lower price point. For those prioritizing style and a sleeker profile in an entry-level BMW, the 2-Series Gran Coupe is another option. While an older design, the 2-Series Gran Coupe delivers similar performance and swoopy aesthetics at a significantly lower cost than the X2.
Ultimately, while the BMW X2 is an enjoyable vehicle to drive and own, its polarizing styling and price premium over the more practical and equally capable X1 make it a less compelling choice for many buyers seeking an entry-level luxury SUV. If you are drawn to the BMW brand and specifically desire a subcompact luxury SUV with a bold grille, the X2 might pique your interest. However, for a more well-rounded package, the BMW X1 likely represents a more sensible and value-conscious decision.
