COMPACT boutique SUVs appear to be the latest fashion wave to hit the car market and BMW is aiming for a big slice of the cake with its new X2.
This stylish Beemer takes on the ageing Audi Q3, the impressive Volvo XC40 and the stylish Jaguar E-Pace but like its competitors, the stylish X2 is impractical. This means it isn’t the best choice for families – it’s older sibling, the BMW X1, is the better option.
While the X2 is based on the X1, it does look far more sporty with its coupé appearance, lower road height, flashy bumpers and a curvy rear end that has a strong hatchback feel.
Although the X2’s exterior style isn’t quite what anyone would expect from a BMW X-model, its interior corrects any misgivings that this is not a BMW.
The straightforward dashboard design looks like it was taken out of the older X1.
The cabin comes with top-notch fit and finish, luxury trim, a touchscreen infotainment system and many more of the latest high-tech gadgets and equipment.
The X2 scores high marks in the driving department – it is a BMW after all. The Beemer slogan promises, it is definitely all about “sheer driving pleasure”.
BMW tweaked the X2 to be sporty and entertaining. It has sharp, responsive handling and is a dynamic vehicle to drive.
Naturally, the X2 is quite comfortable too.
Our test car, the sDrive20i model, felt like a premium vehicle but most surprising, was that it was a really comfortable cruiser that could be used for everyday tasks.
As an SUV, boot space sizes up at 470-litres, which isn’t bad – it is more than what’s offered in the Mercedes Benz GLA and the Audi Q3.
FACTBOX
Model: BMW X2 sDrive20i
Power: 140kW
Torque: 400Nm
Top speed: 221km/h
Zero to 100km/h: 7,7 sec
Price: From R642 200
