FACT spent the day in the new BMW X2, a subcompact crossover making waves in the premium SUV market.

BMW have long established themselves as top contenders in the high-end SUV segment, with various models proving popular throughout the world. However, it is their smallest SUV offering that’s currently receiving much of the attention.

This month, thanks to the team at Euro Motors, FACT got behind the wheel of the brand’s new subcompact luxury crossover SUV, the BMW X2. Although this freshly updated model comes in allelectric options, it was the petrol-powered sDrive 18d version that we were lucky enough to experience.

Dynamic Exterior

Design Our first impression of the new X2 was that it is a sportier version of the X1, albeit with its own personality and style.

In the X2, the master crafters at BMW have managed to effortlessly combine the sturdy look and stance of a compact SUV with the athletic and attractive flair of a coupé.

Starting at the model-specific, upright front end, we found the shapely hood, complete with BMW badge, to bestow the X2 with a confident look. We also appreciated the state-of-the-art signature lighting, with the eye-catching matrix LED design. These impressive lights flank an almost hexagonal, pearl-gloss-chrome kidney grille, with all elements working together to create a beautiful face.

Shifting our attention to the sides, we immediately took note of the dynamically stretched body lines flowing from bonnet to boot. This feature, along with the sloping roofline, enhances the sleek and tight feel of this modern SUV. The 19-inch alloy wheels, complete with a stylish V-spoke design, are fitted under prominently flared wheel arches that underscore the vehicle’s muscular shoulders.

Focussing on the back end, the Gurney-style spoiler and eye-catching rear apron first grabbed our attention – features we felt further enhance the sporty prowess of the X2. We also agreed that the novel tail lights, showcasing dazzling geometric patterns, finish off the rear with yet another touch of class.

Premium Interior

Once inside the SUV, we instantly recognised the upmarket ambience exuded by the cabin, with sporty touches sprinkled throughout.

Firstly, the exceptionally comfy, multi-functional and adjustable front seats with memory function provide a commanding view of the road ahead and the perfect point from which to appreciate the magnificence of the X2’s interior. No matter where our eyes rested, they were only greeted by high-end materials and stunning finishes. Despite being a subcompact SUV, the new X2 provides a surprising amount of headroom and general space in both the front and the rear. A panoramic sunroof lets in an abundance of natural light, adding to the roomy feel of the vehicle.

The luggage compartment provides 560 litres of storage, a capacity increased to 1,470 litres with the rear seats folded flat. This ensures the X2 is practical for both long-distance trips and daily use. The tailgate itself opens by pressing the rear BMW badge.

Outstanding Tech & Infotainment

As picture-perfect as the new X2 is both inside and out, it was the SUV’s included tech that proved to be the most impressive.

The X2 presents the new BMW Operating System 9 and BMW Digital Premium. Additionally, we discovered the latest version of the BMW iDrive display and control system features QuickSelect rapid-access tech. This means super-fast processing speeds.

Packaged with the BMW Curved Display and BMW Personal Assistant, the system has been designed to operate using the touchscreen and natural language.

We admired how the slender instrument panel housing the split-screen BMW Curved Display, is joined by a ‘floating’ armrest with integral control panel. We also agreed that the centre console is amongst the best designs we have encountered, with everything perfectly placed for optimum convenience.

The BMW Operating System 9 also paves the way for a highly customisable selection of additional services, including BMW Digital Premium, allowing customers to enjoy in-car use of all the apps available in the Kingdom.

As involved as this system may sound, we found it pretty easy to navigate and soon had a solid grasp on much of what this superior setup had to offer.

Other must-mention tech features of our test-drive model included the standard smartphone integration for both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a superb Harman Kardon sound system and a smartphone tray with indirect illumination and wireless charging.

“In the X2, the master craftsmen at BMW have managed to effortlessly combine the sturdy look and stance of a small SUV with the athletic and attractive flair of a coupé.”

Power, Performance & Safety

As one would expect from a BMW, engaging the ignition of our X2 sDrive 18d was a satisfying moment. The capable four-cylinder, BMW TwinPower Turbo petrol engine not only delivers the right sounds but a max output of 150hp and a max torque of 360Nm.

When out on the tarmac, this powerful engine coupled with a seven-speed Steptronic transmission with double clutch meant a responsive and sporty driving experience.

Although accelerating off the mark was slightly slower than expected, we discovered that once the car was up to speed, it answered the request for more power far quicker. Even at higher speeds, we established that the handling and braking were reliable and sharp.

Once we shifted the car into Sports Mode, the acceleration became far more responsive and, despite the handling loosening up slightly, we always felt in complete control of the driving experience.

Adding to the sense of security in the X2 is the range of standard safety and driver assistance systems. These include the latest Front Collision Warning system, Cruise Control with brake function, Speed Limit Info, Lane Departure Warning with lane return and Parking Assistance, including Reversing Assist Camera and Reversing Assistant. Many additional options are available upon request.

Our Verdict

In the X2, BMW have created yet another outstanding SUV. The interior and exterior designs, the provided tech and safety systems and the responsive performance, all showcase the brand’s exceptional design and construction capabilities. ✤

GO: CALL EURO MOTORS ON 1775 0750 FOR MORE INFORMATION.