since 1976
since 1976
BMW has covered just about every numerical segment (1-6) of its X Series model family with the all-new X2, which has started a new trail as well. The X2 is more of a Crossover than an SUV (sports utility vehicle) or an SAV (Sports Activity Vehicle) as BMW would like to describe its range for want of being different.
The X2 might share the same wheelbase as the X1 but it is a bit lower in height. And with the new body lines, there is a lower slung profile that befits the sports orientation of the BMW image. As such, BMW now calls the X2 a Sports Activity Coupé and with that, the Crossover image fits the bill better than the taller SAV range in the X1, X3, X4, X5 and X6.
This ‘expressive, dynamic demeanour’ has come about through short overhangs front and rear, a coupé-style roofline and slim window graphics. BMW also made some significant styling changes and additions to give the new X2 the status of more than a mere new addition to the X Series family range.
Take the nose for starters; few would have expected the BMW stylists to touch something as time-honoured as the kidney grille but touch they did. In fact, they turned it upside down! The familiar trapezoidal grille now spots a slimmer top and flares to wider bottom unlike before when the top was wider and tapers to a slimmer lower half. This is the first time that this design approach is taken on a BMW model.
Another interesting note is the addition of the BMW logo on the C-pillars; the last time that BMW featured such a styling detail was on such sporty icons as the BMW 2002 and 3.0 CSL more than 40 years ago. This is said to pay homage to BMW’s tradition of creating premium sports coupés. Needless to say, this new styling detail might be applied on subsequent models to come.
The model launched here is the X2 sDrive20i M Sport variant that is suitably packaged with wheel arch trim and claddings on doors in body colour. Apart from the BMW M rear spoiler, the X2 is also designed with the M Sport suspension that is lowered by 10mm for a more comfortable drive. The 90mm high-gloss chrome tailpipes are arranged one on each side to complement the TwinPower Turbo engine.
The in-line four-cylinder 1998cc engine is transversely located to drive the front wheels although an all-wheel drive version would come on line soon. Output is as good as it comes; 141kW (192hp) from 5000 to 6000rpm and 280Nm that is delivered early at 1350rpm and holds till 4600rpm. The transmission is a seven-speed Steptronic Sport dual-clutch system.
Performance should meet the expectations of a BMW enthusiast who leans towards the X Series models. The first ever X2 sprints to 100km/h from the traffic lights in 7.7 seconds and would do 227km/h if you have the road and gumption for it. Yet, BMW says it would return good mileage if you drive the X2 prudently by yielding 5.9 l/100km or 16.9km/l.
Creature comforts are taken care of in the interior with a reasonably spacious layout and conveniences for travelling. There is the two-zone automatic air-conditioning and electric seat adjustment for driver and front passenger. The large 8.8-inch touch display on the centre dashboard allows split view function.
In luggage space, the compartment at the rear holds 470 litres and that should carry quite a lot. If the 40/20/40 split folding rear seatrest (which is a standard feature in BMWs) is lowered fully, the accommodating capacity is almost tripled at 1355 litres. That should do the job for some Ikea shopping or the like.
The X2 is an imported model and there are no plans for the moment to locally assemble this new Sports Activity Coupé. Thus its price is more premium for a model of its standing at RM320,800 on the road without insurance. It comes with 5 years unlimited mileage warranty, free scheduled service programme and BMW tyre warranty programme.
Colour options include three new hues; Galvanic Gold Metallic, Misano Blue Metallic and Sunset Orange Metallic with Black Interior with Grey seams. A fourth selection is the Black Sapphire metallic with a new interior option of Magma Red and contrasting Grey seams.
This latest trailblazing addition to the BMW X Series range would no doubt add to the family’s growing numbers in Malaysia. According to Harald Hoelzl, the Managing Director and CEO of BMW Group Malaysia, more than 4200 X Series vehicles were delivered here in 2017. That accounts for 39.6 per cent of the total BMW deliveries (10,618) made locally last year.
Link here:
BMW X2 Spec Sheet_Peninsular Malaysia.pdf
BMW X2 Spec Sheet_East Malaysia.pdf
BMW X2 Spec Sheet_Langkawi.pdf
