UPDATE: You can now read our full review of the 2018 BMW X2
BMW will globally debut the all-new 2018 X2 crossover SUV and the 2019 i8 Coupe at the 2018 North American International Auto Show in Detroit. The production version of the X2 is due in showrooms this spring, following its Jan. 15 reveal. It comes a year after BMW revealed the X2 Concept in Detroit.
BMW’s first X2 features a sporty and athletic exterior with a latest version of the famed kidney shaped grille. It’s shorter and lower than the BMW X1, but rides on the same wheelbase as the X1. The muscular-looking X2 receives a coupe-like roofline.
The latest variant in the popular X SUV lineup, the X2 features a 2-liter BMW TwinPower Turbo 4-cylinder engine, generating 228 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission. The powertrain enables the X2 to hit 60 miles per hour in 6.3 seconds.
All-wheel drive is standard on X2. Those seeking more performance can opt for the M Sport X package, featuring a Sport Automatic Transmission and paddle shifters on the steering wheel.
Also: Get your first look at the new and redesigned cars of 2019
2019 i8 Coupe updated
The German luxury maker also will use the Detroit auto show for the worldwide reveal of the new 2019 BMW i8 Coupe, also due out in the spring. This plug-in hybrid sports car with seating for four gains 12 horsepower over the current model and will deliver an estimated 18 miles of pure electric range, an increase of 30 percent. The new i8 Coupe reveal follows the unveiling of the i8 Roadster at the 2017 Los Angeles Auto Show.
Generating 369 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque, the 2019 i8 Coupe can accelerate from zero to 60 in 4.2 seconds. It has a top speed of 155 mph.
Also: Check out the latest news from the Detroit Auto Show
In addition to its unique, sporty design, the 2-door i8 Coupe has BMW eDrive technology and an all-wheel drive system specific for a hybrid. A 3-cylinder gasoline engine that drives the rear wheels through a 6-speed automatic transmission controls is teamed with an electric motor that powers the front wheels through a 2-speed automatic transmission. The i8’s lithium-ion battery’s cell capacity has increased from 20 to 34 ampere-hours (Ah) and its gross energy capacity from 7.1 to 11.6 kilowatt hours.
Pricing for the new X2 and 2019 i8 will be announced closer to the on-sale date. The 2017 i8 starts at around $145,000.
