BMW launches X2, available from £33,980 – with cheaper versions on the way

BMW has launched the X2 – a sportier, lower-slung version of the X1 crossover. The new model is available to order from mid-November and will cost from £33,980, although more versions will arrive in 2018 with lower prices - we anticipate from around £29,000.

Compared to the X1 on which it’s based, the X2 has a lower roofline and short overhangs, giving it a sportier, coupe-like look. It may have more stylish looks than X1 but under the skin much is the same.

That includes engines and a front- or all-wheel drive layout, with sDrive20i, sDrive18d and xDrive18d engines coming in early 2018 - and just one engine from launch.

This is the xDrive20d – a 190PS diesel with all-wheel drive and a peak torque output of 400Nm. This has official economy of 61.4mpg and provides the listed £33,980 start price – so expect the rest of the range to cost less when it arrives in 2018.

Inside, the X2 has a typically BMW layout, with most of the controls oriented slightly towards the driver. There’s also the usual range of different upholstery materials and dashboard inlays, including gloss black and oak grain. Load capacity is 420 litres, which is down 85 litres from the X1.

The trim structure starts with SE, with Sport, M Sport and M Sport X models gaining extras that are chiefly cosmetic, including larger alloy wheels and exterior styling add-ons. Standard equipment includes navigation but, as usual for BMW there are lots of optional extra packs to add desirable features like active cruise control.