How is the BMW X2 performance?

BMW's stepping stone between the entry-level X1 and the locally made X3 is the X2 SAV. The X2 may not be to everyone's liking but for those who are looking at the crossover, you have options

Lawrence Minnie

4 Jun 2024 · 08:40Buying a Car1 min read

1 / 5

X marks the spot

BMW has reinvigorated its X2 range in 2024 with a refreshed look, new tech and drive options. The X2 is a classy urban crossover or as BMW calls it "activity vehicle" that would be completely at home in any suburban driveway or corporate parking lot.

The latest X2 may be considered an acquired taste to some, but the formula is refined, and its design is impressive. The sDrive18i is nice if you're not looking for something potent like the M35i but still has sporty elements. Meanwhile, the M35i is a fun drive, albeit a little thirstier in the fuel department.

What's on offer?

BMW currently only has two derivatives under the X2 banner, these being the sDrive18i and the M35i. Let's see how they stack up against one another in the numbers.

	BMW X2 sDrive18i M Sport	BMW X2 M35i
Power	115kW	233kW
Torque	230Nm	400Nm
0-100kmh	9 seconds	5.4 seconds
Transmission Pairing	Steptronic DCT	Steptronic DCT
Claimed Fuel Consumption	6.7l/100km	7.8l/100km

Is the BMW X2 a petrol or a diesel?

How's the performance?

Compared to the M35i, the sDrive18i has a perky powertrain with some personality. It's pleasant to rev out the 3-cylinder engine, and the Steptronic transmission has snappy changes. Even with the optional 20-inch wheels, ride comfort is compliant on the road and on soft offroad. With the M35i, the exhaust note can have a slight drone in the cabin at cruising speed when in Sport mode, but it can be mitigated by changing the drive mode, it does have a darty but linear power delivery. Tayedza Mbiri

BWM X2 trims head to head: Here's our winner

Written by Lawrence Minnie

Lawrence has been involved with motorsports for almost 30 years. Whether it's two wheels or four, if it has an engine, he will try to race it. This love of motor vehicles has led him to ride, drive, film, photograph, and write about his passion. Freelance for a while but now a permanent fixture on the AutoTrader team for over 7 years, Lawrence contributes written, photographic, and video content for AutoTrader and AutoTrader Bikes.Read more