The rising popularity of crossovers among premium car buyers has resulted in all the major manufacturers developing new and refreshed models at a rather swift pace. BMW, for one, is developing an all-new model that will join its existing range of crossovers including the X1, X4 and the X6.
This new model is to be called X2 and will be launched in the second half of 2017. When launched, it will sit between the second-generation X1 and the next-gen X3 in BMW’s crossover range. The X2’s debut will follow a two-and-a-half-year development programme that according to BMW insiders, is already underway at the brand’s research and development centre in Munich.
The new X1’s platform will also be used in the X2 which is being conceived as a sporty model, due to be previewed in concept form in early 2016. Like the X4 and the X6, the X2 will feature a five-door layout with a low sloping roofline and a tailgate set at a more extreme angle than that of the more practical X1 to give it a coupe-like silhouette.
The X2 will initially be offered with a range of 4-cylinder engines, with the possibility of more economical 3-cylinder units being added to the line-up within a year or so. The engines will be paired to either a 6-speed manual or an 8-speed automatic gearbox in combination with front or all-wheel drive.
The upcoming X2 will be made alongside the new X1 at BMW’s Regensburg factory in Germany, unlike the first-generation X1 which was built alongside the 1 Series and 3 Series at the company’s Leipzig plant.
