The BMW X2 is a coupe-like variant of the X1 SUV featuring a raked-back roofline, sportier stance, and reduced rear seat space. It follows the same formula as the X6 and they’re easily confused in the wild – the X2 looks like an X6 at 50% zoom with robotic Gundam vibes in this Skyscraper Grey paint. Even the kidney grill lights up at night, though we find this grill design to be the most visually aggressive in the current BMW lineup. 

The X2 is offered in two variants: xDrive28i and M35i. We tested the latter with its flared body kit, quad exhaust tips, skinny 20-inch rims, and swoopy M-style side mirrors. Compared to the standard X2, the M35i has been lowered by 15mm and comes with an adaptive suspension. It also features an uprated 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine that produces 312 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission for a 0-100 km/h dash in 5.4 seconds, 1.1s quicker than the xDrive28i.

We have tested this powertrain before in the X1 M35i and more recently, in the MINI Countryman JCW. It’s a typical BMW engine that enjoys revving and provides the right amount of thrust for an SUV of this size, but the gearbox’s lack of polish leaves much on the table. While delivering crisp and seamless upshifts, the transmission is clunky unless driven hard, and it is reluctant to downshift, often hitting the 7,000 rpm limiter. Transitions between gears, throttle modulation, and pedal input do not gel well together and the X2 comes off as raw and jittery – not what you would expect if you’re getting out of an X3 or X5. 

More specifically, the turbo lag and delay in clutch engagement is unnerving, especially when last-minute acceleration maneuvers are required. This occurs at both steady speeds and when the vehicle is stationary. The delay after throttle input leaves you in a brief twilight zone, pondering when it will finally accelerate. We remedied this by taking control via the paddle shifters, but the overall drive saps our confidence. We also miss having a dedicated Sport Mode button, rather than the ‘My Modes’ button on the center console, which brings up a whole menu to choose from. This requires three button inputs just to activate Sport – the extra click is due to the ‘OK’ consent to reduce stability control intervention. Much of this can also be remedied with Boost Mode by holding the left paddle shifter, triggering the X2’s sportiest settings, but only for ten seconds. That also opens up its vocal cords and emits a throaty noise that goads you to drive faster and let the volume and RPMs rise.

The X2 is based on a front-wheel-drive platform shared with the MINI Countryman, meaning it handles differently than a rear-biased X3 or 3 Series. At low speeds, the X2 remains stable and planted. The front is eager to change direction and the rear follows willingly, meaning you can carry speed and fling this car into corners with a commitment not present in other SUVs like the Mercedes GLB or Volvo XC40.

Although the steering could benefit from a quicker ratio to feel more alert and reactive, it remains numb and devoid of feel. And as the speeds climb, the spectre of understeer roams in the distance and persists unless you drive it less like a traditional BMW and more like an overpowered MINI. Shift the load to the front wheels by trailbraking and let them settle and finish rotating before applying too much throttle; you will then extract the most from this chassis. It is not the most involving or engaging method of thrashing around in a performance SUV with the blue roundel, but such are the high standards set by other products in the BMW portfolio.

The interior meets those standards, though, and it’s imbued with a distinct and different personality than the MINI Countryman. From the thick leather steering wheel to the Coral Red leather and upscale materials, the X2 is a premium product. The overlay of digital screens, combined with an elevated center console featuring dials and buttons, ensures seamless user connectivity. The sport seats with their integrated headrests are supportive at the sides and thighs, and the rear seats are surprisingly spacious. There’s enough headroom for my six-foot figure, though legroom is noticeably cramped. It’s a shame the sunroof does not open, and the tiny bunker-slit view out the rear windshield is expected but it’s enough to roughly see what’s behind you. The off-center steering wheel bothers us as it’s noticeably tilted to the left. We’re not sure if it’s just an alignment issue but we noticed the same thing with the X1 M35i we drove last year. 

Overall, the BMW X2 M35i is not the most polished product to wear the M badge. The gearbox tuning doesn’t gel at low speeds, performance is confined to a FWD layout despite a healthy output, and spirited driving never crystallizes into anything special. The adaptive suspension offers a composed and fluid ride, though, and we appreciate its exhaust noise, remarkable cabin amenities, and surprisingly generous rear cabin space. However, it’s clearly a more casual take on the BMW M formula.

Specifications:

Model: 2025 BMW X2 M35i xDrive
Paint Type: Skyscraper Grey
Base Price: $60,400
Price as Tested: $71,800
Engine: 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder
Horsepower: 312 hp @ 5,750-6,500 rpm
Torque: 295 lb-ft @ 2,000 – 4,000 rpm
Transmission: 7-speed dual-clutch automatic
Engine & Drive Configuration: Front engine, AWD
Observed Fuel Consumption (L/100km): 9.8
Tires: Continental EcoContact6; 245/35R21