Is the BMW X2 good for new drivers?

Marketed as the sportier version of the X1 with which it shares many components, the X2 was introduced in 2017 as BMW looked to expand its SUV and crossover portfolio. BMW’s front-wheel drive architecture underpins the X2, making it practical from a packaging perspective while its emphasis on style will make it very appealing to younger drivers with an active lifestyle.

BMW currently only lists petrol models for sale, with the BMW X2 sDrive18i M Sport retailing at R708 224, the BMW X2 sDrive20i M Sport R753 134 and the BMW X2 M35i for R939 474 excluding options. We would not recommend the latter as it is a performance car and not advisable for new drivers. There are several pre-owned X2 models listed on AutoTrader for those looking to save some money or perhaps purchase a low mileage, well-specified used example for the price of a more basic new model.

Here are our top 4 reasons why the BMW X2 is good for new drivers:

1.It has good safety credentials

The X2 range was tested by the Euro NCAP in 2015 where it scored the maximum 5-Stars, including 90% for adult occupant safety, 87% for child occupant safety, 74% for pedestrian safety and 77% for its safety assistance systems. The validity of this rating was last reviewed at the end of 2019, meaning that it needs to be revaluated now in 2021.

2.Practical

Being a lifestyle crossover vehicle, the X2 is reasonably practical, certainly handy enough for a first-time driver. There is a 470-litre boot that expands to 1 535-litres with the rear seats folded flat while there is seating for five occupants, meaning that first-time drivers will have their friends at university or co-workers asking to carpool in what is sure to be one of the more premium cars in their respective cliques.

3.Economical engines with M Sport design

Excluding the performance-oriented X2 M35i, the other two models in the X2 range, namely the sDrive18i M Sport and sDrive20i M Sport feature relatively powerful, but economical engines. The sDrive18i features a 1.5-litre turbocharged three-cylinder petrol engine that produces 103kW and 220Nm of torque, allowing for a 0-100km/h time of 9.6 seconds and a fuel consumption figure of 6.3L/100km. The sDrive20i features a 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine that produces 141kW and 280Nm of torque, allowing it to sprint to 100km/h in 7.7 seconds, with a fuel consumption figure of 6.0L/100km. Both models are paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox that sends power to the front wheels.

Since we are hesitant to recommend the performance-oriented M35i model, it is good to see that BMW sell the X2 in M Sport guise only, meaning that the first time driver can have a sporty-looking crossover without giving them too much power to handle, so early in their driving life.

4.Premium, connected interior

While the interior of the X2 may appear dated versus other BMW models, it is still a premium space, with solid build quality and premium materials, befitting of a high-end product. The product also features the brand’s excellent iDrive infotainment system that includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto* functionality, voice control and connected services that integrate your car with your smartphone, which will be appealing to the more tech-savvy among us.

The downsides

The young and trendy among us will be disappointed to see how dated the X2 is versus newer BMW products such as the F40 1 Series, having been introduced in 2018. This means that the X2 features a previous generation BWM interior and does not necessarily share the same exterior design language as newer BMW models. 

Verdict

Those with the means to purchase a premium compact crossover for themselves or their youngsters need to consider the X2 when shopping, however, with rivals as competent as the Volvo XC40, Audi’s Q3 Sportback and the Mercedes-Benz GLA, you may want to consider a more modern option.

*Android Auto was added by BMW SA towards the end of 2020.