Introduction
The BMW X2, now in its second-generation, entered the South African market in April 2024 looking more swish than ever with its angular and aggressive styling cues. It certainly has a lot more kerbside appeal than the previous-generation.
(Find out how much repayments will be on a new X2 here.)
Overview of the BMW X2
We have two models on offer in SA, the X2 sDrive 18i M Sport (R879, 738) and the spicier X2 M35i at R1,223 936. The former employs a 1.5-litre turbocharged engine with 115 kW and 230 Nm while the latter has a 2.0-litre turbocharged powerplant offering an energetic 233 kW and 400 Nm of torque. The 18i M Sport will sprint to 100 km/h in a decent 9 seconds, while the M35i is decidedly hastier to reach the finish line in swift 5.4 seconds.
Read Taye's X2 first drive review here.
Safety Features
Both models are generously equipped with a raft of both standard and optional safety features, but even if you don't go near any options boxes, you'll be pretty sorted safety-wise, as there are a multitude of bells and whistles that will all help to keep you safe and your gorgeous new X2 blemish-free.
Standard spec include ABS with EBD, and electric parking brake, hill-start assist, traction and stability control, a tyre pressure monitor, SEVEN airbags including a centre airbag between the driver and front passenger, navigation, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, child locks, Isofix points, automatic LED head- and daytime running lamps, headlamp levelling, high-beam assistance, park distance control in the front and rear, and a rearview camera.
If you have money to spend on extras and packages, you'll be pleased to know there's plenty on offer in the way of semi-autonomous driving technology such as traffic sign recognition, lane keeping assistance, and head-up display, to name a few features.
Standard features include the latest version of the front collision warning system, Cruise Control with brake function, Speed Limit Info and Lane Departure Warning with lane return. The Parking Assistant including Reversing Assist Camera and Reversing Assistant also forms part of the standard equipment roster.
The line-up of optional features, meanwhile, includes the Steering and Lane Control Assistant, Active Cruise Control with Stop & Go function, Active Navigation, the exit warning function and the BMW Head-Up Display, as well as the Surround View, Remote 3D View, BMW Drive Recorder and Remote Theft Recorder functions. Existing functions can be upgraded by means of the Remote Software Upgrades facility, which also makes it possible to add new functions. - BMW SA
Driving Experience
Driving the X2 is a sporty affair, more sporty in the M35i of course, but a sub-10-second sprint in the 18i Sport is not to be sneezed at. Typical of BMW, you can expect excellent roadholding and handling, and a very driver-centric driving experience, although I must admit that I find the infotainment system a little overly complex. But, if you spend enough time behind the wheel, you will get to know it well enough to make the most of it.
The interior is beautifully appointed, high-tech and luxurious, so if all this tickles your fancy, you really can't go wrong.
Two-zone automatic climate control, the navigation system BMW Maps and a Sport leather steering wheel all come as standard in the new BMW X2, as do automatic tailgate operation, four USB-C ports and a 12V power socket in both the centre console and the boot. The number of driver assistance systems and digital services available has also increased significantly over the predecessor model. - BMW SA
Cost of Ownership
BMW will throw in a 5-year/100 000 km maintenance plan with your 2-year/unlimited warranty. You can also extend this to 7 years via BMW. More on that here.
As for fuel economy, according to BMW, the 54-litre fuel tank in the 18i M Sport will yield 806 km, while the hotter M351 will have you stopping for fuel after 692 km. This is based on average consumption of 6.7 litres per 100 km and 7.8 litres per 100 km, respectively. It's the brand's own claimed figures, not real-life consumption, so we will have to wait until we have one on test before we can confirm or deny it! Remember that a heavy foot will see those figures rise dramatically.
Remember to factor in other running costs, like tyres, too. Consult your local BMW dealer for pricing. As for insurance, this could add a significant amount to what you're already paying every month. Here are some insurance FAQs.
These are the top 5 Auto Insurance Providers in South Africa for 2024
(Find out how often the BMW should be serviced.)
Comparison with competitors
The X2 competes with cars like the Audi A3 and Alfa Romeo, and we compared them in this article.
As for the best variant of the X2, Ryno compares the two models here.
Verdict
If you have the money, the X2 makes a great car for a new driver. We reckon your friends are going to be very jealous.
