BMW X2 Review 2024

BMW X2 At A Glance

3/5
Honest John Overall Rating
BMW’s smallest SUV-style coupe offers a more rakish take on the BMW X1. Its styling compromises practicality, but the BMW X2 is genuinely good to drive.

+Upholds BMW’s reputation for fine handling. Effective at long-distance cruising. Plug-in hybrid version offers impressive fuel economy.

-Curvaceous styling results in less boot space and cramped rear seats. Firm ride. Not cheap to buy and the options soon stack up.

New prices start from £40,225
Insurance Groups are between 22–32
On average it achieves 81% of the official MPG figure

The BMW X2 is the starting point in the German company’s SUV-coupe range, positioned beneath the larger BMW X4 and BMW X6 models. BMW has stuck to the same formula, however, taking the regular BMW X1 SUV and giving it a funkier look. The BMW X2 is not short on rivals, with a host of credible alternatives including the Volvo XC40 and the A-Class-based Mercedes-Benz GLA. Read on for our full BMW X2 review.

The BMW X2 offers an alternative to those who find the BMW X1 SUV just a little too staid. Instead of upright, boxy styling, the BMW X2 has a swooping roofline that transforms the car’s rear end. As a result, it appears more like an upsized hatchback – a jacked-up version of the BMW 1 Series.

Beneath the BMW X2’s styling is the same platform used to underpin the previous-generation BMW X1 SUV, and indeed the MINI Countryman. This serves as a reminder of how relatively old the BMW X2’s design is, especially in the fast-moving premium SUV marketplace.

Where the BMW X2 delivers is on upholding its maker’s reputation for fine handling and rewarding driver engagement. Its steering maximises feel and precision, making this an SUV that is genuinely enjoyable to drive.

On the flipside, the sporty suspension set-up results in a ride that is particularly firm. Models with the bigger 20-inch wheels and run-flat tyres are notably stiff, and can start to feel uncomfortable over broken tarmac.

With the decline in popularity of diesel engines, the BMW X2 is now offered with a solely petrol engine range. This stretches from the economical 1.5-litre sDrive18i through to the high-performance M35i with its 306PS power output. In between is the 2.0-litre xDrive20i, which comes with all-wheel drive as standard.

You can also buy a BMW X2 with the efficient xDrive25e plug-in hybrid powertrain, which makes for a notable sweet-spot in the range. With 223PS, it provides a decent turn of speed, yet can also cover more than 30 miles on electric power alone when the batteries are fully charged.

A low Benefit-in-Kind (BiK) tax rating will appeal to company car drivers, too.

The age of the BMW X2 is apparent inside the cabin, which borrows its overall design from the previous-generation BMW X1. Although it may look less modern, it is still well put-together, with a reassuring sense of solidity. BMW’s iDrive media system is included, with an 8.8-inch touchscreen fitted as standard to all versions.

Opting for a coupe-styled version of an SUV naturally results in a loss of practicality compared to the BMW X1. Although the BMW X2 can still provide a respectable 470 litres of boot space (410 litres in the hybrid model), it does have notably less rear headroom.

It leaves the back seats best suited to children and smaller adults only.

The BMW X2 comes with a premium price tag, starting at just shy of £35,000 at the time of writing. This sets a high bar, given the age of this car. That the impressive Volvo XC40 is priced almost head-on doesn’t help the BMW's case, although the Swedish car isn’t as rewarding to drive.

Given how fashion-conscious buyers in this market are likely to be, the BMW X2 is getting harder to recommend as a new purchase. However, if you really like the looks, and how it drives, you are unlikely to be disappointed.

Fancy a second opinion? Check out heycar's BMW X2 review.

Ask Honest John

How often should I change the spark plugs on my car?

"I have a 30,000 mile 2018 BMW X2. How often should I change the spark plugs ?"
We would consider changing them at around the 60,000 mile mark.
Answered by Alan Ross

What car should I buy to transport my disabled mum?

"I'm going to have to change my car to help transport my disabled mum. She has been in a Nissan Juke and Skoda Karoq both of which she can get into more easily. Given I do a lot of journeys on my own I don't want a big car but one that I can take Mum in, put her mobility aid (4 wheeled walker) in the boot, do the shopping and use as a run around. I'm looking for a petrol engine as I do mainly short journeys (20-30 miles round trips). I enjoy driving and would like a fun car to drive, if possible. I tend to keep my cars for 8-10 years so I'd like something that has good reliability. I could spend up to £30k, but would prefer to spend £20-25k."
We'd recommend a Ford Puma. It's similar in size to a Nissan Juke but more fun to drive, while it's also very practical (especially with a hidden 'megabox' compartment in the boot). You could also look at the MINI Countryman - another stylish and fun-to-drive SUV with easy access, or a used BMW X2.
Answered by Andrew Brady

Where can I find a list of torque convertor automatic cars?

"Is there a website with a list of every torque convertor car available in UK? I am looking for a small/medium SUV sized car - with a TC box available via Motability - but Motability cannot provide such a list. The operative that I spoke to knew no difference between CVT and TC - Trying to convince me that they were the same - they are not."
We're not aware of a resource that lists cars with torque converter automatics, but you can use the Honest John Car Chooser https://www.honestjohn.co.uk/chooser/ to create a list of automatic SUVs that fit your criteria. All automatic versions of the BMW X2 use a ZF eight-speed torque converter gearbox - apart from the sDrive18i - and it appears to be on the Motability list, but assuming a DCT transmission is also out of the question, unfortunately your choice is quite limited. Torque converter automatics have fallen out of favour with many mainstream manufacturers as CVTs and DCTs are more efficient, so they tend to be the preserve of premium luxury cars.
Answered by David Ross

Best sporty small SUV?

"I am used to driving a 270bhp (remapped etc.) BMW E83 auto and need a similar replacement that is not too large. I don't exceed 5,000 miles per annum, but don't mind having another diesel - no preference. Budget £20,000-ish. I am very tall and prefer raised seating position. Any recommendations please?"
How about a BMW X2? It's a sporty small SUV with a relatively high seating position. We wouldn't recommend a diesel for 5k a year - if you can find one with the 2.0-litre petrol engine, it ought to feel quick enough. Alternatively, consider a SEAT Ateca. It's a family SUV available with a 190PS 2.0-litre TSI petrol engine and DSG automatic gearbox.
Answered by Andrew Brady
More Questions

What does a BMW X2 cost?