Used 2019 BMW X2

Offering lovers of the X1 something a bit less practical and lot more sporty, the 2019 BMW X2 is a compact-crossover SUV with dynamic handling, racy good looks and a still somewhat versatile interior. The X2 costs more than the Audi Q3 and significantly more than the Infiniti QX30, but it also offers a level of features and performance few can rival. New this year is the X2 M35i, which comes packing an impressive 302 horsepower and numerous performance upgrades fitting of a vehicle carrying the M performance designation. And while the hottest X2 still can’t surpass the performance credentials of the 375-horsepower Mercedes-AMG GLA45, there is such a thing as overkill. We think BMW has found just the right balance between performance and price.

Surprisingly, our first time behind the wheel of the BMW X2 was on a racetrack. This seems like an odd place to get one’s first experience with a subcompact-luxury SUV, but the 2019 BMW X2 puts an emphasis on its handling and performance. So, maybe not so surprisingly, it proved perfectly satisfying. The little BMW SUV boasts sharp steering, good power, and makes the most of its all-wheel-drive (AWD) setup as it powers out of turns and down straightaways. Yet this doesn’t mean it’s brutal on the streets. Instead, the new X2 is as comfortable and composed on surface streets as you’d hope. The engine’s 258 lb-ft of torque is available from a very low 1,450 rpm, meaning the X2 feels exceptionally responsive in traffic and when passing. The suspension that feels so adept on the track in Sport mode is perfectly comfortable and accommodating in Comfort on the street.

Although it borrows the same dash, iDrive display, interior bits and pieces as well as seats from the X1, the 2019 BMW X2 lacks the interior volume and high roofline many SUV buyers require. The front seats are supportive and comfortable, with plenty of headroom and legroom for tall occupants. Move to the rear, however, and both commodities are in short supply. In fairness, neither the Mercedes-Benz GLA nor Infiniti QX30 is much better. Cargo room is good for this class, with additional storage space under the rear deck. As for quibbles, we have a few. The X2’s wireless charging pad can’t fit larger smartphones, and the rear C-pillar creates a large blind spot.

Even-numbered BMW X-cars are generally the sporty version of the one-lower odd-numbered model, e.g., X3/X4 and X5/X6. However, we’re liking the looks of this new BMW X2 more than the others, and it’s probably because the X2 doesn’t share the sloping hatch design of the X4 and X6. Instead, it’s boasting just enough styling flourishes to capture your attention without making you wonder what they were thinking. We already mentioned the BMW logo on the C-pillar, but also take note of the reshaped “kidney” grille in front.

STYLE
With a bit less roof height, unique side sculpting and retro features like the blue-and-white roundel affixed to the rearmost pillar, the 2019 BMW X2 stands apart from the generic X1. Thankfully, the X2 avoids the added heft and unconventional roofline of its larger siblings, the X4 and X6.

PRICE
While not cheap by conventional standards, in the world of premium European brands, the 2019 BMW X2 isn’t outrageous. A nicely equipped base model starts just under $40,000 and even with extras remains comfortably in the mid-$45,000 range.

The base-model 2019 BMW X2 sDrive28i comes with front-wheel drive (FWD) and an 8-speed automatic transmission. Inside, there’s a 10-way-power driver’s seat with power side bolsters, faux-leather upholstery, an audio system with iDrive, Bluetooth, USB and Aux inputs, and a touch-screen/knob-based control system. Automatic climate control is also standard, along with rain-sensing windshield wipers, push-button start, and a power tailgate. In addition to multiple airbags and stability control, the X2 comes standard with a rearview camera, exceptionally useful considering the pinched rear view.

All-wheel drive is available on base models and standard on the M35i. Besides that, the X2 gets divided into three levels: standard design, M Sport X Design and M35i, the latter two giving it a more aggressive appearance and including the standard model’s Convenience Tier option package, which adds power-folding outside mirrors, auto-dimming rearview mirror, keyless entry, and a panoramic sunroof among other things. The Premium tier on both standard and M Sport adds a head-up display, navigation with real-time traffic info, heated front seats and steering wheel, and BMW’s remote services. Other options include any color other than white or black, leather upholstery, wireless charging and a Wi-Fi hotspot, an upgraded Harman Kardon audio system, Apple CarPlay, parking sensors, and active cruise control with stop-and-go.

The standard powertrain in for the 2019 BMW X2 is the same as in the X1, that being a 228-horsepower turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine paired with an 8-speed automatic. Although no manual is offered, the 8-speed does offer manual shift control. We’re also quite happy BMW’s electronic gear selector was jettisoned in favor of a traditional PRNDL shift lever. The 2.0-liter can propel the X2 to 60 miles per hour in 6.2 seconds regardless of drivetrain. Those seeking more go will be pleased with the new X2 M35i, which features a larger turbocharger and upgraded internal components producing an impressive 302 horsepower and 332 lb-ft of torque. All-wheel drive is standard, and the 8-speed transmission is revised for performance over fuel economy. Also standard is a limited-slip front differential and launch control. BMW claims a 0-60-mph acceleration time of just 4.9 seconds.

2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4
228 horsepower @ 5,000-6,000 rpm
258 lb-ft of torque @ 1,450-4,500 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 21/31 mpg

2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4
302 horsepower @ 5,000-6,250 rpm
332 lb-ft of torque @ 1,750-4,500 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: NA