2022 BMW X2

The BMW X2 is a stylish crossover that once again proves that practicality can come in desirable packaging. Offering the choice between a peppy 228-horsepower base model and a feisty 301-hp performance variant dubbed the M35i, the X2 lineup offers enough variety to appeal to more than one type of shopper. Both configurations cater to an enjoyable driving experience, but despite being more slender and fleet of foot than the BMW X1, it still remains a crossover and not a hot hatch. After a couple of years on the market, the X2 is a handsome alternative to the lesser X1, but with a greater focus on style, it also faces strong competition from the likes of the Volvo XC40 and Range Rover Evoque.

The X2's coupe-inspired body was slightly modified last year with the addition of a different front bumper but otherwise remains the same attractive crossover that it's always been. Slim, upturned LED headlights flank the large kidney grilles and the rear is also dominated by slender LED lights. A set of chrome exhaust tips poke out from either side of the rear diffuser, though they're noticeably bigger on the M35i that gets a far sportier look. Base models rest on 18-inch wheels while the top-spec gets upgraded with 19-inch M wheels. The M35i also wears M Sport equipment as standard with a unique body kit.

The 2022 BMW X2's dimensions are noticeably smaller than those of its rivals, the most notable being the Volvo XC40 that makes the German SUV look quite bitsy. The BMW measures 172.2 inches from snout to trunk and has a width of 71.8 inches. A height of 60.1 inches means that it sits lower than competitors, further emphasizing its sporty styling. In the range's lightest configuration, the sDrive28i weighs in at 3,519 pounds and the heaviest model, the M35i, has a curb weight of 3,743 lbs.

BMW makes a 12-color palette available for the exterior, though there are some colors that are model-specific. For starters, 28i models come in either no-cost Alpine White or Jet Black as standard, while the M35i only gets access to the former only. The metallic range for 28i variants includes elegant hues like Black Sapphire, Glacier Silver, Mineral White, Mineral Grey, and the new-for-2022 Brooklyn Grey - all of which cost an additional $550. Storm Bay Metallic goes for $1,200. For those who tend to live on the bolder side of things, Phytonic Blue, Galvanic Gold, and Sunset Orange cost $550 as well and should do the trick. Last but not least, the $550 Misano Blue Metallic is only available with the M Sport X Package specced. The M35i loses access to Phytonic Blue, Glacier Silver, Mineral White, and Brooklyn Grey, but allows you to opt for Misano Blue without an additional package.

No modern BMW in the USA is truly lethargic these days, and despite being one of the more affordable SUVs in the automaker's stable, the X2 puts on an impressive performance regardless of engine choice. Of course, the M35i will be far more eager to get from A to B, but 28i models are definitely decent enough to get the kids to school and back on time. The 2.0-liter turbo in 28i models delivers a 6.6-second run from 0 to 60 mph on FWD models and the xDrive version manages to accomplish the same feat in a slightly faster 6.3 seconds. The M35i makes the run from 0 to 60 mph in around 4.7 seconds according to BMW. The only FWD model of the lot is the sDrive28i, so you can expect standard all-wheel-drive from any other model which is an added benefit for those who are likely to put the added capability to use.

You can have your pick between two engines in the X2 lineup, but both are coupled with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The eight-speed automatic 'box is a determined and intuitive thing that isn't likely to disappoint, whether you're on the freeway or visiting a friend that lives two blocks away. 28i models enlist the help of a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-pot to get the wheels turning, and it's certainly peppy enough to get the job done without a complaint. The base engine produces 228 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque, which means that it's noticeably more powerful than the Volvo XC40 in base form. But this falls behind the Range Rover Evoque's 246-hp engine. The top-level M35i is also powered by a 2.0-liter turbo, but one that makes a stop in the M division of the factory before it rolls off the production line. The four-pot in the performance model makes 301 hp and 331 lb-ft - but in something this size, it's almost too much power.

There's a section where we'll analyze the X2's small size under a harsh spotlight, but the handling isn't one of them. Quite the opposite, actually. The crossover's compact stature means that it feels far more like you're behind the wheel of a hatchback rather than a true SUV. This family-suitable vehicle is aimed at practicality, but it doesn't sacrifice fun in the process. The X2 will not shy away from a twisty road, and it offers enough responsiveness from its steering to mitigate any hesitation from the driver to chuck it into a corner or two. Nicely weighted and perfectly sharp, the steering wheel will likely inspire confidence within the driver, but all of this liveliness does come with a small flaw. While base models do relatively well at soaking up any bumps and cracks, the sporty M35i makes the smallest of road imperfections known. If you can move past the harsh ride and appreciate the M-massaged model for its merits, you'll find every trip entertaining. This is especially true for the top trim because it's upgraded with an M Sport suspension and gets M Sport steering and M Sport brakes to boot, making it that much more tempting to get to top speed.

Even luxury automakers have become mindful of the fuel economy of their SUVs, and this is reflected in the impressive gas mileage figures of the BMW X2. The sDrive28i returns EPA estimates of 24/32/27 mpg city/highway/combined, while the xDrive drops the highway figure down to 31 mpg. Impressively, the M35i only drops slightly in comparison to the models with less power and has EPA estimates of 23/30/26 mpg. When the 16.1-gallon fuel tank is full, the sDrive28i will offer around 435 miles of range while the M35i will allow for just under 420 miles.

The interior of the X2 may not be particularly bold or exciting, but it's undeniably plush. It's not as spacious as the X1, but it's on par with other rivals in terms of space. The tech and infotainment aspects are fairly easy to use and well laid out, but the absence of a few modern bits like a digital instrument cluster and Android Auto are notable downfalls. Overall, the inside of the X2 is comfortable and premium-feeling, but the Range Rover Evoque and the XC40 offer superior interiors.

Say what you will about the interior, but offering an impressive amount of space is something that the X2 does well, especially when you consider its compact dimensions and sleek styling. Taller adults won't struggle in the front or the rear, though the former would be the better place for a six-footer. The front of the SUV is an excellent place to be for occupants of any size thanks to supportive seating and ample legroom. Eight-way power-adjustable seats are standard for 28i models, while M35i models welcome 12-way power-adjustable front seating.

High-quality materials are liberally used throughout the interior of the X2, with not a shred of discounted material visible to the naked eye. Upholstery options are somewhat limited, but they range from plain to adventurous. As standard, 28i models can be had with Sensatec upholstery in Black or a Black and Oyster combination. Four shades of perforated Dakota leather are available and include Magma Red, Oyster, and Black. Mocha is also on the list, and all of these cost $1,450 each. The same trend we found in the exterior palette for the M35i continues for the inside of the sporty variant. It comes with the same standard upholstery as 28i models, but loses access to the Oyster and Mocha Dakota leather options. Estoril blue interior highlights with aluminum hexagon trim differentiate this model further from the rest as standard.

Being able to carry a good amount of cargo is essential for an all-rounder in this segment, and the X2 makes a valiant effort to offer just that. It offers exactly the same amount of cargo space behind the second row as the Evoque, with 21.6 cubic feet of trunk space to match the Brit's. The X2 offers more cargo space than the XC40's 20.7 cubes as well, so it's got a stronghold in this department, at least. With the second row folded, the X2 will offer a total of 50.1 cubic feet for additional cargo-carrying needs. As for storage on the inside, slim door pockets will allow for a wallet and a smartphone and a deep center console is great for storing slightly larger items. Two cupholders are standard.

Appropriately laden with standard-fitted convenience, the X2 range offers a good amount of features at the base level. Notably, if the basics aren't enough for you, you'll need to focus on the M35i or be ready to add some additional packages. A power tailgate, push-button start, and a tilt/telescopic multifunction steering wheel are standard on 28i models along with automatic dual-zone climate control, ambient lighting, and eight-way power-adjustable front seats. Safety features are inclusive of dynamic cruise control, forward collision warning, speed limit information, and lane departure warning. The traditional safety suite includes a rearview camera and park distance control for the front and the rear. The $2,250 Convenience Package adds a panoramic moonroof, keyless entry, and four-way lumbar support to the front seats, while the $3,650 Premium Package adds the same with the addition of heated front seats and a heated steering wheel, a larger 10.25-inch navigation display, power-folding mirrors, and auto-dimming mirrors inside and out. Wireless charging bundled with a Wi-Fi hotspot is also available for $500.

The M35i is improved with the addition of keyless entry, a hands-free tailgate, and 12-way power-adjustable front seats. The top-level trim shares standard safety features with the base model. Here, the Premium Package is less expensive at $1,400 and adds a head-up display, heated seats, a heated steering wheel, and the larger navigation display.

Tech and infotainment are pretty much the same throughout the lineup. An 8.8-inch touch screen hosts BMW's iDrive software which is simple and easy to use with clear images displayed. The system caters to HD Radio, Bluetooth streaming, and Apple CarPlay. Unfortunately, Android Auto is absent from the list yet again in 2022, even as an added option, which is a letdown. But a navigation system is standard, which helps slightly. As standard, a seven-speaker sound system pushes out your favorite playlists, but if you need your audio to be perfectly crisp, a Harman Kardon system with 12 speakers is available.

The 2022 X2 hasn't been recalled for anything as yet, but the 2021 variant was recalled for the possibility of a passenger seat belt malfunctioning. In terms of reliability, BMW offers a four-year or 50,000-mile basic warranty for the X2 along with a 12-year corrosion warranty and a four-year or 50,000-mile drivetrain warranty. Roadside assistance is also standard for four years. BMW's competitive maintenance plan runs for three years or 36,000 miles.

The NHTSA doesn't have a review of the BMW X2 as yet in terms of safety, but the SUV earned a 2019 and 2020 Top Safety Pick award from the IIHS, although the 2021 model hasn't repeated this feat. However, the IIHS scored it its top "Good" rating in all its tests.

The standard suite of safety features is the same across all models. The traditional features are inclusive of a rearview camera, park distance control, and an airbag system that includes a head protection system, front, and front side airbags. As for driver assists, the Active Driving Assistant includes lane departure warning, forward collision warning, and speed limit information. Parking Assistant is available for an additional $200, and Stop and Go monitors your distance from the car in front of you and brakes accordingly - this package is available for $1,000.

In many aspects, the X2 is an excellent luxury crossover. It offers two decent engine and drivetrain options, and both perform well regardless of the task at hand. The 28i models are perfect for those who are happy with the basics and are ideal for a small family that simply needs a way to get around comfortably. M35i models change the recipe significantly, however, making changes that allow them to appeal to those who enjoy power and prioritize an entertaining experience behind the wheel. There are positive aspects across the entire lineup, like the spacious interior and excellent fuel economy. The range has also earned the Top Safety Pick award from the IIHS in recent years. But the SUV isn't perfect, unfortunately. The interior seems a little bland in comparison to rivals, and lacks a few modern tech features like Android Auto and the option for a digital instrument cluster. BMW also doesn't offer the same amount of additionally available safety features as the competition and the ride quality on the M35i is undeniably harsh at times. Still, if you can look past the negatives, the X2 is a crossover worth considering.

The BMW X2 range starts off with sDrive28i with an MSRP of $36,600 which is more expensive than the base price of the XC40, but considerably more affordable than the Evoque. The mid-level trim doesn't hike up the price by too much which is unsurprising because it's essentially the same as the base model but adds an all-wheel-drive system. The xDrive28i has a starting price of $38,600. The BMW X2's price at the top level is rather high at $46,450 for the M35i, but it's still around $8,000 cheaper than the top Evoque. None of these prices include BMW's $995 destination fee.

For this year, the BMW X2 lineup is made up of three trims, namely the sDrive28i, the xDrive28i, and the M35i.

The base model is the sDrive28i and it's also the only front-wheel-drive model in the range. It uses a turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-four gas engine that develops 228 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque and is coupled to an eight-speed automatic transmission. Standard features include 18-inch alloy wheels and LED head- and taillights. On the inside, standard features include push-button start, automatic two-zone climate control, eight-way electrically adjustable front seats, and a power liftgate. The iDrive infotainment system has an 8.8-inch screen and incorporates HD Radio, Apple CarPlay, Bluetooth streaming, navigation, and a seven-speaker audio system. Among the standard safety features are park-distance control, a backup camera, forward-collision warning, and lane-departure warning.

The X2 xDrive28i is identical to the sDrive28i in all respects, except for the addition of an all-wheel-drive system.

The flagship is the M35i and it is distinguished by its bespoke 19-inch alloy wheels and M Sport exterior styling package. Standard features added over and above the 28i models include keyless entry and a hands-free power liftgate. Inside, the front seats have 12-way power adjustment. The 2.0-liter engine has been tuned to produce 301 hp and 331 lb-ft of torque and its performance and handling are further improved by the addition of a performance exhaust and M Sport suspension, steering, and brakes.

BMW offers a few additional packages and standalone extras for the X2. For 28i models, the M Sport X package costs $4,400 and adds 19-inch M wheels, an M steering wheel and blacked-out exterior Shadowline trim elements. The $2,250 Convenience Package adds a panoramic sunroof, keyless entry, lumbar support, power-folding mirrors, auto-dimming mirrors inside and out, and an interior and exterior lights package. The Premium Package costs even more at $3,650 and adds all the features from the Convenience Package with the addition of heated front seats, a head-up display, Navigation System Plus with a larger 10.25-inch display, and a heated steering wheel.

For the M35i, the exterior Shadowline package can be added for $300. The Premium Package costs $1,400 and adds a head-up display, Navigation System Plus, heated front seats, and a heated steering wheel.

If you aren't truly going to put the added power from the M35i to use, we'd recommend opting for the xDrive28i and adding the M Sport X package. But it's worth noting that the addition of the package alone hikes the price up to $43,000 which is a mere $3,000 or so less than the M35i. Still, you're getting a nearly fully-loaded crossover when you opt for the addition of the M Sport X Package that vastly improves the exterior appearance with 19-inch wheels and the Shadowline exterior trim.

Despite different nomenclature, the X2 is closely related to the X1, but there are a few distinctions that separate the siblings. For starters, the X2 is smaller on the inside thanks to its sportier coupe styling. The X1 also looks far more like a traditional SUV while the X2 bears a closer resemblance to a hatchback. At the base level, both share a 228-hp 2.0-liter turbo that allows them to perform similarly on a run from 0-60 mph, but the X1 has no performance-biased option in its lineup while the X2 offers the feisty 301-hp M35i. Those who desire extra power will likely opt for the X2, but those with an eye for practicality will favor the X1. The base models also return similar estimates from the EPA, so the better choice will likely come down to personal preference if extra power isn't a priority.

The X3 was once the smallest SUV in BMW's lineup, but then came the X1 and X2. The X2 is far smaller than the X3; around 14 inches shorter than its bigger sibling. As a result of bigger measurements, the X3 offers more space inside and its upright SUV style means there's more room for occupants in the back. While both are powered by a 2.0-liter turbo, the one in the X3 delivers 248 hp, slightly stronger than that of the X2. Still, more power and more space come with an inflated price tag which inevitably means that the X3 comes with a few more standard features. The X3 is the better car for those with families in mind, especially considering how much extra space it offers, but those on a stricter budget should stick to the X2.