HomeAutomobileREHEARSAL. BMW iX2, more electric and more coupe

REHEARSAL. BMW iX2, more electric and more coupe

BMW launches the second generation of its X2 launched in 2018. This model becomes a true coupe SUV and offers a 100% electric version for the first time.

The X2 lines up. Since the launch of the first generation in 2018, it was in fact the only BMW SUV pair to adopt a crossover body, to look more like a raised 1 Series, and not a sunken body at the rear. A segment of “SUV coupes” created by the X6 launched in 2008, followed by the X4 in 2014, with the success we know.

A true coupe SUV

This format has since become more popular, notably with the Renault Arkana, Citroën C4X, Volkswagen Taigo and ID.5 and the latest Peugeot 3008, although the latter claims “fastback” status.

The second generation BMW X2 becomes 100% electric with this iX2.
The second generation BMW X2 becomes 100% electric with this iX2. ©BMW

Therefore, this second generation of the X2 now adopts this very fashionable silhouette, as a coupe version of the latest X1. With a length of 4.55 meters, this X2 is 5.4 centimeters longer than its little brother in the range. It is also 5.5 centimeters lower, which reinforces this more dynamic appearance.

However, in terms of design, this new X2 is clearly distinguished from the X1, as it does not have any body panels in common with the X1. The grille is also differentiated with an elongated version of the “beans” (the design given to the grille at the front) and luminous, with the “IconicGlow” introduced in the latest 5 Series. Last important distinction with the X1, a volume larger trunk. for 20 liters, to 560 liters.

The BMW X2 now adopts an SUV coupe silhouette, just like the X4 and X6.
The BMW X2 now adopts an SUV coupe silhouette, just like the X4 and X6. ©BMW

Switch to electric

Sharing the X1 platform also allows it to offer a 100% electric version, the iX2. We tested it in xDrive30 version, 4-wheel drive and with 313 horsepower. A drive version is also offered, with eDrive20 and a power of 204 horsepower. A version that can also qualify for the ecological bonus with a starting price of 46,900 euros and, therefore, below the ceiling of 47,000 euros. And with the weight kept below 2 tons, it is not possible that the price of parking will triple in the near future in Paris.

The BMW iX2 offers two different engines.
The BMW iX2 offers two different engines. ©BMW

This will not be the case with our test model, which has a starting price of 59,150 euros. And it has a weight on the scale of 2,095 kilos.

If this iX2 xDrive retains undeniable dynamic qualities, with a torque of 494 Nm and acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in 5.6 seconds, this weight seemed too penalizing for a model that appears minimally sporty. Let’s see if the traction version or the thermal X2 are also more comfortable, an important point in a premium model. And even more so in electric, which undoubtedly allows dazzling acceleration, but also invites quieter driving.

A successful techno interior

This BMM iX2 makes up for it with its interior that offers good quality finishes and beautiful red upholstery. The move to an Android architecture also brings more fluidity to the screens and, above all, allows us to offer new content such as streaming videos or access to a catalog of video games.

The interior of the BMW iX2.
The interior of the BMW iX2. ©BMW

We also had all the modern equipment such as the driving assistant that combines adaptive cruise control and road trace monitoring, or a very complete head-up display to have the main information directly on the windshield (speed, limitation and directions). GPS).

Which logically also increases the bill: the design and technological options represent an additional cost of 18,430 euros, for a fairly high final bill of 77,580 euros.

BMW predicts that this model will be sold mainly in China (a third of sales), ahead of Germany (10%). Next we find the United States, where only the gasoline versions will be marketed, ahead of some European markets, the United Kingdom, Spain, France and Italy.

Last step before Neue Klasse

This iX2 also stands out as BMW’s fourteenth 100% electric model, thus completing the second phase of its transition plan to electric. The first started with the small i3 in 2013, then the hybrid (and fabulous) i8 in 2014. The next step, the new generation models with the long-awaited “Neue Klasse” platform.

The current offering allows the Bavarian brand, which regained its crown as global premium leader last year, to offer a range of zero-emission models, from the iX1 to the i7 limousine. A decisive battle in the German premium war, pitting Mercedes and Audi against each other.

Author: Julien Bonnet
Source: BFM TV

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