BMW X2

The redesigned X2 is larger than the outgoing model, featuring extra rear-seat room, more power, better fuel efficiency, and (finally) standard blind spot warning (BSW) and rear cross traffic warning (RCTW). But the powertrain’s inconsistent low-speed power delivery and the stiff ride count against it. 

The X2 continues to be the coupe-like version of the BMW X1 SUV, which we also tested. But the sleek-looking styling ultimately hurts rear and side visibility, as well as rear-seat access and cargo room, and the X2’s compromises result in a lower road-test score compared to the more upright and useful X1.

Testers praised the X2’s agile handling, excellent brakes, and well-finished cabin. But the unintuitive controls turned off many of our drivers. One tester encapsulated the X2, thusly: “The simple, day-to-day annoyances with this car completely overshadow any amount of driving fun it offers.”

We purchased an X2 xDrive28i —anonymously from an area dealer, as we do with every vehicle we test—for the purpose of this road test review.

Our tested xDrive28i’s 241-horsepower, 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine packs an energetic punch and sounds invigorating. The X2 zipped from 0 to 60 mph in just 7.0 seconds, which is fairly quick for this class. The seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission shifts smoothly and quickly at speed, and its efficient operation helped the X2 achieve an impressive 29 mpg overall in our testing. But due to some turbo lag and the action of the transmission’s internal clutches, the little BMW suffers from a delay of power when you step on the gas pedal coming out of a rolling stop, followed by an abrupt burst of acceleration that makes it difficult to drive smoothly. We were also bummed out that there aren’t any paddle shifters, though placing the transmission into “L” mode can help take advantage of engine-braking on steep and twisty downhills. Buyers looking for more performance can turn to the sportier M35i xDrive, which pumps up the 2.0-liter's output to 312 hp.

Although the X2 doesn’t possess the handling balance that comes from a rear-drive-based platform found in most BMWs, it’s still nimble and light on its feet, tackling corners with enthusiasm. Praising the X2’s driving dynamics, one tester noted that the “steering is pretty tight and feels natural...body roll is kept in check as well.” The steering has a satisfying heft and delivers decent feedback to the driver about tire grip. But the ride is simply too firm: The suspension feels stiff and unyielding over potholes and other sharp bumps. “The ride feels especially brittle on rough surfaces. You can feel most everything,” said one driver. Braking performance is top-notch in terms of its short stopping distances, but the pedal can be too sensitive, especially at lower speeds.

Noise isolation is commendable, with only some road and tire noise on coarse surfaces making their way into the cabin. Most of our drivers liked the sounds the engine made, commenting that it emitted a satisfying growl. 

Testers raved about the optional front Sport seats, which have well-defined side bolsters and comfortable padding. Some drivers bemoaned the lack of adjustable lumbar support, though, and thought that a car costing this much should have it standard. Praise was also heaped on the X2’s driving position, which is spacious, offers plenty of headroom, and gives a good view out over the hood. Rear and side visibility are hampered by thick pillars and small windows, creating a cave-like interior, however. There’s also less rear-seat space than in the more upright X1, with tight head- and knee-room, though foot space is decent. The X2’s swoopy styling also results in an 8 cubic-foot drop in cargo room compared to the X1. 

Controls have taken a turn for the worse, due to the reduction of physical knobs and buttons. Many tasks now involve going through the infotainment touchscreen, which often means extra steps. For example, most climate functions require pressing a specific icon at the bottom of the screen to bring up a separate menu. Other oddities include having to go through the screen to deactivate the annoying engine stop/start system rather than just pressing a button on the center console or the dashboard. The tiny gear selector, and the fact that the Park and emergency brake buttons are combined, also takes some getting used to.

Standard active safety and driver assistance features on the X2 include automatic emergency braking with pedestrian and cyclist detection, automatic emergency braking that operates at highway speeds, blind spot warning, rear cross traffic warning, reverse automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, lane keeping assistance, and automatic high beams. Adaptive cruise control and lane centering assistance are optional. Rear occupant alert and rear belt-minder systems are also standard.