2019 BMW X2 M35i: The Brand's Performance-Oriented Crossover

Highlights: The X2 is BMW’s entry-level crossover. The curvaceous X2 , X4 and X6 are sibilings. They all were named using even numbers. Outside of the exterior styling, the X2 shares many of the same components as its SUV-styled cousin, the X1.

Test Vehicle’s MSRP: $55,020 (Base Model: $37,395)

Seating Capacity: 4

Standard Safety Features: ABS; airbags; hill descent control; cornering headlights; rearview camera; a tire pressure monitoring system; audible parking and distance control; daytime pedestrian protection system; front collision warning system with city collision litigation system; a lane departure warning system; and automatic highbeams

Standard Features (28i): 18-inch wheels; an 8-speed automatic transmission; front wheel drive an automatic start-stop feature; variety driving modes: eco pro, comfort and sport; power front seats; driver’s side bolsters; navigation system; engine start and stop system; keyless entry system; power tailgate; an automatic climate control system; a manual operated tilt/telescopic steering wheel; power tailgate; automatic climate control system; and front center armrest  

Standard Features (M35i): 2.0-liter twin turbo, 302-horsepower; Msport differential; M sport exhaust system; M sport suspension; M sport brakes; M sport steering; vehicle speed sensitive power steering; aerodynamic kit; rear spoiler; M sport exterior design elements; 12-way power seats; power driver’s side seat bolsters; leather-like interior; M-spoke steering system; navigation system; and 6-inch infotainment screen

Optional Features On Test Vehicle: 20-inch wheels; heads up display system; navigation touchpad; Magma red Dakota leather; panoramic roof; a radar activated stop and go system; active drive assistance; Harman Kardon premium audio system; and sport front seats

Other Trim Levels:

sDrive 4-Door AWD

Standard Audio On Test Vehicle: a 205-watt, 7-speaker AM/FM/HD/CD

Bluetooth Connectivity: Yes

Apple Connectivity:  Yes

                                                                                                      

Bumper-to-Bumper Warranty: 4 years or 50,000 miles

Powertrain Warranty: 4 years or 50,000 miles

Standard Engine/Horsepower: 2.0-liter twin-turbo, 4-cylinder/228-hp

Recommended Fuel: Premium

Standard Fuel Mileage: 23-city/32-hwy

What’s New: The X2 joined the BMW line up during the 2018 model year, making the vehicle a carryover a model. New for this model year is the sportier and peppier X2 M35i.

Why: The X2 is BMW’s entry level curvaceous premium compact crossover. For comparison purpose, the X1 is BMW’s SUV-like crossover twin. So, for those seeking more of a crossover-like design that’s the role of the X2.

The X2 M-Series, with its 20-inch wheels, offers the performance, handling capabilities and ride height one would expect in a German-engineered crossover. The spirited vehicle we tested, with the M Sport extendable front seats and vibrant orange interior, made this vehicle a standout.

The interior adds the flavor one expects from a BMW. From the 12-way power front seats to the three spoke leather steering wheel to the iDrive system, which controls the infotainment center, to the iPad-like navigation system, the vehicle’s interior screams BMW.

Also the handling and ride capabilities are enhanced too with the performance model, as a result of the suspension system, the sport brakes, the sport differential and the standard all-wheel drive system. To compliment all of the attributes of the X2 M35i, the vehicle is equipped with a variety of driving modes too.

The high performance model ditches the puny standard 228-horsepower engine in the X2 for the M35i 302-horsepower twin-turbo, with its 8-speed transmission.

And the vehicle is also outfitted with the latest safety driving aids too. From a rearview camera to a radar activated cruise control system to an audible parking assist control system to a lane departure warning system to highbeam headlights, this BMW is pushing closer to becoming a self-driving vehicles (although we believe most BMW owners prefer to be engaged with the vehicle). 

But: The compact crossover is quite pricey, especially when adding on options. And the higher trim level, with the peppier engine, is only available in an all-wheel drive configuration.

The X2 is limited in interior space and headroom, when compared to the boxier styling X1.

Verdict: The pricey X2 M35i unique styling offers a higher ride height than a traditional BMW, while giving the illusion of more utility space. The cozy performance-oriented vehicle is great for those looking to separate themselves from the other premium compact crossovers in this crowed segment.

Competition: Audi Q3; Cadillac XT4; Infiniti QX30; Jaguar E-Pace; Land Rover Range Rover Evoque; Lexus NX; Lexus UX; Mercedes-Benz GLA and Volvo XC40

Near Competitor: Mazda CX-3