When BMW launched the X6 back in 2009, it created a new breed of SUV altogether and went on to become quite a sales success. With the recently introduced X4, the brand has followed a similar route but with a smaller package. Going even further, BMW is now developing a new sporty crossover based on the X1 which is the most affordable model from the company’s X range of vehicles.
Called the X2, this upcoming new model will be offered in three and five-door configuration. The vehicle will be based on the UKL1 platform that currently underpins the new Mini and the 2 Series Active Tourer. Furthermore, it will also underpin the next-generation X1 and the 1 Series. The X2 is expected to be available in both front and all-wheel drive configuration.
The X2 will be powered by a wide variety of petrol and diesel engine options. The 1.5-litre, three cylinder turbo petrol engine used in the 218i Active Tourer will power the base-spec X2. The sporty crossover will also get a range of diesel units spread between 1.5 and 2-litre. Being a BMW, we can also expect a high-performance version powered by a 2-litre, four cylinder engine producing close to 300bhp of power. This top-of-the-line model would be seen competing against the Audi RS Q3 and the Mercedes-Benz GLA 45 AMG.
While it is highly unlikely that BMW India will bring the high-performance 300bhp version, the rest of the X2 range can certainly be expected after the car’s global launch. Since Audi and Mercedes-Benz already enjoy a fair bit of presence in the premium crossover segment of India, it is only natural for BMW to also step in and cater to this burgeoning segment.
Source: AutoExpress