BMW's 'X' family of SUVs is set to grow in 2018 with the introduction of a new-gen X3 along with the addition of two new models – the X2 and X7. The X2 Concept was showcased at the 2016 Paris Motor Show and here we have a digital rendering of BMW’s newest crossover.
As the name indicates, the X2 will be positioned between the X1 and X3. As the nomenclature of the Bavarian carmaker goes, the X2 will be a sportier derivative of the X1, in the same way as the X4 is to X3 and the X6 is to the X5. The prototype of the new X2 has also been spotted doing the rounds at the Nurburgring.
The production-spec X2 will carry forward all the design elements from the X2 Concept. Thus, you can expect a low-slung sloping roofline which will be raked similar to the X4 and X6. As can be seen in the image, the X2 will sport the new design language for BMW that will be a common sight in all the future BMWs. The kidney grille will be more imposing than before and the sleek headlamps are a part of the new BMW family face which will carry a new lighting signature.
The X2 will be a lot more flamboyant than the understated X1. Although it will be based on the same UKL platform as the new X1. Interestingly, the new architecture is transverse engine layout, which is suitable for X1, however, the X2 being a sportier car will need an all-wheel-drive layout, which is permissible on the UKL platform. Amongst the powertrain options, there will be a 2.0-litre diesel and petrol engine on offer with a six-speed manual or automatic transmission upon its arrival. A more potent M Performance variant is also on cards until a full-blown X2 M arrives later.
When it arrives next year, the X2 will face stiff competition from the likes of Audi Q3, Infiniti QX30, Range Rover Evoque, Mercedes-Benz GLC and the Volvo XC60.
