Sporty-looking crossover uses the same platform and engines from the X1, 2-series Active/Gran Tourer and Mini Countryman.
How many SUVs is BMW making now?
If you include this all-new X2, seen here in official pictures for the first time in production-ready form, the number of SUVs BMW is making is six.
Like how the sporty X6 and X4 are to their X5 and X3 relatives, the X2 is the racier model of the X1 and was first previewed by a concept late last year.
Although the X2 shares the same 2,670mm wheelbase of the X1, it is slightly shorter in overall length thanks to smaller overhangs. And combine this with a shorter height, the X2 is rightfully the sporty cousin of the family-oriented X1.
BMW has introduced two new design elements in the X2 including a kidney grille whose outline is wider at the base and the brand’s logos on the C-pillars. There’s also a new trim called M Sport X which has a distinctive side-skirt design to emphasise the ruggedness of an SUV (SAV in BMW speak meaning Sport Activity Vehicle).
It’s an SUV. Is it front-wheel drive?
Like the X1, the X2 uses the UKL2 platform that also underpins the 2-series Active/Gran Tourer and Mini Countryman.
There are four engines to choose from initially. The petrol ones, all hooked up to a new seven-speed dual-clutch automatic, include 20i using 192hp 2.0-litre four-cylinder and 18i employing 140hp 1.5-litre triple.
The diesel alternatives, paired with eight-speed torque-converter automatic, comprise of the 150hp 18d, 190hp 20d and 231hp 25d.
While most of them get four-wheel-drive, the 18i and 18d can be had with front-wheel-drive.
Which one will BMW sell in Thailand?
BMW says the global market launch of the X2 will start in March next year. The good thing about the X2’s engine range is that all manage to emit CO2 less than 150g/km enabling for 30% excise tax in Thailand.
Which model the Thai BMW office chooses to sell will probably depend on which price point they want to cover initially and in the subsequent months.
Due to its loftier position over the X1, the X2’s competitive price range would be around 2.5 to three million baht. The closest rival to the X2 in terms of size and concept would be the Range Rover Evoque which, however, is priced high up in the four million baht range.
