BMW’s X2 enters the competitive subcompact crossover segment, aiming to blend sporty styling with luxury appeal. For those seeking an entry point into the BMW brand, the X2 presents itself as a more stylish alternative to the more traditional X1. I recently spent time behind the wheel of the 2024 BMW X2 xDrive28i, navigating the winding roads of the Appalachian Mountains, to assess whether this crossover delivers on its promises. My experience revealed a vehicle with undeniable strengths in performance and interior quality, but also some notable drawbacks, particularly in the styling and practicality departments.
Questionable Exterior Design: Is the Style Worth the Compromise?
Let’s address the elephant in the room: the X2’s exterior styling. BMW has opted for a bold approach, highlighted by an oversized kidney grille that dominates the front fascia. While the LED headlights and intricate grille details are visually appealing in isolation, the overall front-end design feels disproportionate. The large grille, often described as “bucky beaver,” detracts from what could have been a more cohesive and attractive front.
Moving to the side profile, the X2’s fastback roofline, the defining characteristic differentiating it from the X1, raises further questions. This “SUV coupe” design trend, while intended to evoke sportiness, often results in awkward proportions. The X2, unfortunately, falls into this category. The sloping roofline appears grafted onto the SUV body, lacking a sense of natural integration. Beyond aesthetics, this design choice compromises rearward visibility and reduces both rear headroom and cargo space, practical aspects crucial in a crossover.
However, not all exterior elements are misses. The 19-inch M double-spoke bi-color alloy wheels on my test vehicle were a definite highlight.
These wheels, part of the $2,500 M Sport Package, add a touch of sporty sophistication. This package also includes adaptive suspension, sport seats, and subtle BMW M interior accents, enhancing both the visual and driving experience. It’s worth noting the X2’s impressive 8.1 inches of ground clearance, though its urban-focused nature makes off-roading an unlikely scenario for most owners.
Engaging Performance and Driving Dynamics
Under the hood, the X2 xDrive28i is powered by BMW’s familiar turbocharged four-cylinder engine.
This 2.0-liter B48 engine, found across various BMW models, delivers a solid 241 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque. For those seeking more power, the M35i xDrive trim boosts output to 312 horsepower from a more potent version of the same engine. Both versions utilize a responsive seven-speed dual-clutch transmission and come standard with all-wheel drive (xDrive). Fuel economy is respectable for the class, with EPA ratings of 24 mpg city, 33 mpg highway, and 28 mpg combined for the xDrive28i.
Starting the engine remotely is a convenient feature, accessible via the BMW key fob.
Pressing the BMW logo on the fob three times initiates the remote start.
Behind the wheel, the X2 reveals its fun-to-drive nature. While perhaps not the “ultimate driving machine” in the purest sense, it’s undeniably engaging for a crossover. The adaptive suspension (part of the M Sport Package) and Michelin tires contribute to confident cornering, while the steering is direct, albeit with somewhat muted feedback. The engine provides ample power, with a slight hint of turbo lag, and the dual-clutch transmission delivers quick, smooth shifts. In Sport Mode, the X2’s engine note, though electronically enhanced, adds to the driving excitement with turbo wastegate sounds and exhaust burbles. Performance figures are respectable, with BMW claiming a 6.2-second 0-60 mph time for the xDrive28i, while independent testing suggests it might be even quicker. The optional M-Sport brakes are particularly impressive, offering consistent and strong stopping power, a standout feature in this vehicle segment.
Premium Interior and User-Friendly Technology
Stepping inside the X2, the interior is a pleasant surprise, especially for an entry-level luxury vehicle.
BMW has created a cabin that genuinely feels luxurious, a significant step up from earlier entry-level attempts in this class. The fit and finish are excellent, and attention to detail is evident throughout, from the phone clip on the wireless charger to the mix of textures and materials.
The centerpiece of the dashboard is the curved display, integrating both infotainment and instrument cluster screens.
This single-piece unit houses a 10.7-inch infotainment screen and a 10.25-inch digital instrument display. BMW’s iDrive system, now in its ninth generation (iDrive 9), has evolved significantly.
Once criticized for complexity, iDrive 9 is now intuitive and user-friendly, competitive with the best systems in the segment. The screen quality is excellent, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard. Like many modern vehicles, the X2 integrates many functions, including climate controls and headlight operation, into the touchscreen. Touch-sensitive shortcut buttons offer some quick access, but physical controls would still be preferable for on-the-fly adjustments. The screen also hosts the surround-view camera system, equipped with a helpful built-in washer for the rear camera.
The driver benefits from a heated, leather-wrapped steering wheel and a configurable digital instrument display.
The instrument screen is clear and customizable, displaying information ranging from driving range to navigation. A color head-up display further enhances the driver’s information access. Seats are upholstered in imitation leather, which, in mocha color, looks and feels premium and proved comfortable on longer drives.
The center console features a modern toggle-style shifter, freeing up space and adding to the clean design.
This design choice allows for a wireless charging pad, cupholders, and a storage area in front of the console.
A unique optional feature is an interior camera, located above the center console, which can be used for selfies, video recording, and security purposes.
The optional Panorama Skyroof, part of the premium package, brightens the rear cabin, compensating for the reduced natural light due to the sloping roofline.
Rear passengers also benefit from dedicated air vents, USB-C ports, and cupholders in the fold-down armrest.
While legroom is comparable to the X1, headroom in the rear is noticeably reduced due to the roofline.
Practicality and Features: Compromises in Cargo and Options
The X2 offers 25.3 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats, slightly less than the X1.
Folding the rear seats expands cargo capacity to 51.7 cubic feet, again, less than the X1. Under-floor storage accommodates a compact spare tire and tool kit.
Standard safety features are comprehensive, including blind-spot detection, forward collision warning, lane departure warning, and parking sensors. However, adaptive cruise control and lane keep assist are optional, requiring the $1,700 Driving Assistance Package.
Verdict: Fun but Consider the Alternatives
The BMW X2 xDrive28i is a vehicle of contrasts. It delivers an enjoyable driving experience, boasts a well-executed and technologically advanced interior, and offers the allure of the BMW badge in a compact package. However, its polarizing exterior styling, compromised rear visibility and headroom, and a price that can escalate quickly with options are significant considerations.
The fundamental issue is value. For buyers prioritizing practicality and a more conventional SUV aesthetic, the BMW X1 presents a compelling alternative. It shares the X2’s powertrain and interior quality while offering more space, arguably more appealing styling to a broader audience, and a slightly lower starting price. Alternatively, for those drawn to the X2’s sporty coupe-like styling but less concerned with SUV practicality, the BMW 2-Series Gran Coupe offers similar performance and swoopy looks at a lower price point, albeit in an older platform.
While the 2024 BMW X2 xDrive28i has its merits, particularly its engaging driving dynamics and premium interior, potential buyers should carefully weigh its stylistic compromises and consider whether the more practical and equally capable BMW X1, or the sleek 2-Series Gran Coupe, might be a more sensible choice for their needs and budget. For many, the X1 will likely emerge as the more well-rounded and recommendable entry-level BMW crossover.
