2024 BMW X2 xDrive28i Review: Baby Grows Up

The 2024 BMW X2 xDrive28i is the rational version of an irrational vehicle.

When I drove the X2 M35i a few months ago, it gave big classic hot hatch vibes—right up to the brutally harsh ride quality. While it was plenty fun when pushed, it veered close to punishing the rest of the time, and that was too hardcore for a vehicle unlikely to see regular track time.

Good news: the “base” engine model provides basically all of the style (and speed) experience of that range-topper, but with a more well-rounded driving experience. X2 buyers might be inclined to go with the peacock of the lineup, yet this xDrive28i is the smarter (and more affordable) option.

The X2 moves into its second generation this year, still atop the UKL2 platform but stretched in nearly every direction. Now 179.3 inches (4,554 millimeters) long, the X2 has gained some 7 inches (178 mm) over the outgoing model, along with 2.5 inches (64 mm) additional height. It’s fractionally wider, too. The design naturally hews closer to the current X1, but like the 3 and 4 Series, uses small tweaks to familiar bits like the headlights and grille design to distance itself from its more upright kin.

At launch, North American buyers have just the two gas-only choices. The all-electric iX2 is forbidden fruit for now, though Mini will gladly sell you the mechanically similar Mini Countryman SE. Both petrol-powered coupe-overs utilize a 2.0-liter turbo-four mated to a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission sending power to all four wheels. Splurging on the M35i unlocks 312 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque; this xDrive28i drops those numbers down to 241 and 258, respectively. For those keeping score, that’s a 13-horsepower bump from the last model, while torque is unchanged.

BMW’s inline-six engines tend to garner all the acclaim—and with good reason—but the four-cylinders are the unsung heroes of the lineup. Responsive and muscular, the 2.0-liter is an ideal match for something X2-sized. The right pedal is well-weighted and progressive. There’s even a decent (augmented) soundtrack.

As was the case in the X1 that vanquished the the Lexus RX last year, the DCT is almost as smooth as a traditional auto in low-speed situations, and swaps cogs with a quickness. If there’s a fly in the ointment, it’s the tardy response time from the paddle shifters even in Sport mode, something carried over from the hotter M35i.

While I generally like BMW’s start-stop system, the X2’s caught me out a few times in low-speed traffic. It helpfully switches off a second or two before a total stop, but if traffic dictates constant movements, it can take a sec to wake back up. It’s a thrifty little engine too: rated at a combined 28 mpg (8.5 L/100 km), the X2 happily hit that figure in chilly temps on winter tires. It does require premium fuel, though.

The X2 remains flat through corners, but without reminders of every seam in the road surface making their way up through the driver’s backside. The over-thick steering wheel is typical modern BMW: light and consistent, but with an over-boosted feeling that muddies what feedback there still is. The X2 is a dense little nugget yet through the corners it carries itself well, only really belying that curb weight in sustained, high-speed sweepers. The additional wheelbase makes it a little less eager than the last-generation model, but the trade-off there is better high-speed stability.

While there is some initial grabbiness to the brakes, get passed that and there’s strong and consistent stopping power.

I never thought I’d refer to 19-inch alloys as the smaller, sensible rolling stock, but here we are. Thanks, BMW. Even wrapped in winter rubber, this X2 is a much friendlier everyday companion.

This tester runs BMW’s adaptive suspension. The softer setting finds the balance buyer’s should expect, maintaining a semblance of sportiness paired with the necessary suppleness to take the sting out of everyday city driving. This is still a firm ride, but one wholly within expectations of what a non-M BMW should be in modern times. The baby BMW finds its stride on the highway, where it confidently suppresses major bumps with minimal jiggle.

The front seats are mega comfortable, cupping the driver and passenger with ample—but not over-aggressive—bolstering. BMW’s faux leather is now so good I can’t imagine many folks caring, or even knowing. The second row will never be as comfortable as the X1, but head room is pretty decent since the roof’s downward slope only really picks up angle at the headrests. In pure number terms, the 37.1 inches (942 millimeters) of headroom and 36.7 inches (932 mm) of legroom are only about an inch or so off of the Alfa Romeo Tonale’s figures.

The X2’s cabin is a thoroughly modern take on the traditional Bimmer cabin. A curved twin-screen display sits atop a low-profile dashboard, shorn almost completely of physical controls. A veritable cornucopia of materials and textures line the doors, which feature unusual, protruding metallic handles. Personally, I like the look, but it may rankle traditionalists.

BMW has improved its infotainment system and always keeps climate controls on screen; but it’s still no replacement for physical controls. There are basic audio controls on the semi-floating center console, the dual-level design of which affords the X2 with a solid amount of storage space. I still smile at the wireless charger setup, which features a little roller coaster-style “lap bar” to ensure phones stay in place. Fun!

iDrive 9.0 is something of a mixed blessing. It’s quick and responsive and sleek and customizable sure, but there are still a few things requiring too many sub-sub-menu dives. Wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay are both standard; the latter was easy to set up, but kept having audio blips every 10 or 15 minutes all week. No complaints about the ability to feature Google Maps directions in the main instrument panel, mind you.

A bone-stock X2 should ring up at $42,995 ($51,280 CAD) including destination. We all know that sort of unicorn doesn’t exist however, and this Canadian-spec tester is no exception. There is no exact US-market equivalent, but the closest configuration would ring up at $51,295, including the Premium package ($4,000), heated front seats and steering wheel ($550), plus the M Sport exterior style ($2,500) and Vegas red paint ($650). The spec sheet lists upgraded 20-inch alloys here ($600 / $500 CAD).

The Canadian options list includes the Premium Enhanced package ($6,000 CAD), and $250 CAD for the patterned aluminum dashboard trim. The final tally is $64,130 CAD.

While BMW has been better at including safety assists as standard these days, this tester skips the optional package, which includes useful aids like front cross-traffic alert and adaptive cruise with full stop-and-go functionality.

The 2024 BMW X2 xDrive28i successfully translates the new X1’s new-age feel to a stylish, more attention-grabbing form. While performance addicts will gravitate towards the M35i, this entry-level model finds a better blend between accessible performance and day-to-day comfort. If the X1 is just a little too safe for your tastes, the X2 adds a serious helping of style with only a slight practicality penalty.

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