Sport utility vehicle sales are booming and most carmakers are cashing in on the craze - BMW is no exception. In fact, the German manufacturer is going all out expanding their lineup to cover everything from the small X1 sports activity vehicle_,_ to the upcoming X7 large seven-seater.
The next installment in the German brand’s SUV blitz is the X2 - a more daring and unorthodox addition along the lines of the larger X4 and X6. So let’s take an illustrated look of what punters can expect.
Focused Design:
First thing that comes to mind when seeing the new X2 is its closest direct competitor - Mercedes-Benz’s GLA; sure it's pure BMW at the front and rear, yet the side profile and stance do have a whiff of MB's jacked-up hatch.
Similarities aside, frontal styling follows that of recent BMW's like the X1 and X4; cue a dominant twin-kidney grille, upper bumper-mounted fog lamps and large lower intakes. What makes the X2 unique, is a wide stance, body-dividing swage line, short overhangs and upright c-pillar, with the latter exuding more of a VW Golf/Fiat 500x vibe than the traditional Hofmeister kink found on other BMWs.
Driver Orientated Cockpit:
Interior styling will follow in the footsteps of the latest X1; so cue a driver-focused instrument panel, center console and multi-layered surfacing. These attributes, combined with hi-grade materials and contrasting detailing should make it a welcoming place for occupants.
Talking of passengers; it’ll seat up to five and offer reasonable boot space considering its sporting pretenses. Expect goodies such as BMW’s ConnectedDrive infotainment system and available heads-up display, aided by an iDrive controller and large monitor for ease of access to BMW apps, remote services and driver assistance settings.
What Will Propel It:
The X2 will mirror the X1’s powertrains, including a potent 2.0-liter turbo four putting power to the ground via an 8-speed automatic and all-wheel drive for the North American market.
Being based on BMW’s UKL platform, European markets will be offered front-wheel drive and turbocharged 3-cylinder variants for the fuel economy conscious. Diesel versions will also be available. Don’t be surprised if a M Performance model makes its appearance with a ‘massaged’ 2.0-liter turbo four pushing 300 or more horses to all-four wheels.
Compact CUV Opponents:
Could competition come directly from BMW’s showroom floor? The X1, being its more civilized, practical and roomier sibling, may just be its biggest challenge. Other rivals like Mercedes-Benz’s GLA, Audi Q3, Range Rover Evoque and Mini Countryman will also be out for the X2’s blood.
Expect a reveal afterwards this year with sales to likely beginning in 2017.
Share your thoughts on BMW’s GLA rival in the discussion area below.
By Josh Byrnes
Photo Renderings Copyright Carscoops / Josh Byrnes