The BMW iX2 is the latest addition to the German automaker’s electric vehicle lineup, and it aims to combine the best of both worlds: a sleek and sporty design with a low environmental impact. The iX2 is based on the second-generation BMW X2, a compact crossover that offers a more dynamic and expressive alternative to the conventional BMW X1. But unlike the X2, which will also be available with petrol engines, the iX2 is exclusively powered by electricity, making it a zero-emission vehicle that can travel up to 279 miles on a single charge.
What makes the BMW iX2 stand out?
The iX2 is not the first electric SUV from BMW or the most spacious or powerful. The BMW iX3 and the BMW iX are larger and more capable models that accommodate more passengers and cargo, offer longer ranges, and have faster acceleration. However, the iX2 has a unique appeal, especially for drivers who value style and agility over practicality and performance.
The iX2 is designed to look like a coupé, with a sloping roofline, a muscular stance, and a distinctive rear spoiler. It also features some exclusive elements that differentiate it from the X2, such as the arrow-shaped LED headlights, the enlarged kidney grille with optional Iconic Glow contour lighting, and the blue accents on the logos and wheels, signify its electric nature. The iX2 is available in six exterior colors, including the signature Fire Red, which adds flair and personality.
Inside, the BMW iX2 offers a modern, luxurious cabin with high-quality materials, digital displays, and ambient lighting. The seats are upholstered in vegan leather, which is more eco-friendly and animal-friendly than traditional leather. The dashboard is dominated by a 10.7-inch digital instrument panel and a 10.25-inch infotainment screen housed within a single unit. The infotainment system runs on the latest version of BMW’s iDrive software, which supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, as well as a range of online services and apps. The iX2 also comes with a smartphone key feature, which allows drivers to unlock and start the car using their phone, and a camera that can record and send images from inside the car to the phone.
The iX2 is not only stylish but also spacious and comfortable. Compared to the previous X2, the new model is longer and taller, with a longer wheelbase and wider tracks. This translates into more room for the occupants, especially in the rear seats, with an extra 25 mm of knee room. The boot is also more prominent, with a capacity of 525 liters, which can be expanded to 1,430 liters by folding the rear seats. The iX2 can also tow up to 1,200 kg, enough for a medium-sized caravan.
How does the BMW iX2 perform?
The BMW iX2 is powered by two electric motors, one on each axle, that produce a combined output of 309 hp and 400 Nm of torque. This allows the iX2 to accelerate from 0 to 62 mph in 5.6 seconds and reach a top speed of 112 mph. The iX2 has an all-wheel drive system that can vary the power distribution between the front and rear wheels depending on the driving conditions and mode. The iX2 also has an adaptive suspension that can adjust the damping and ride height and a sports steering system that enhances handling and responsiveness.
The 2024 BMW iX2 has a 64.8 kWh battery pack, which ranges from 259 to 279 miles, depending on the wheel size and driving style. The battery can be charged at speeds of up to 130 kW, which means it can be replenished from 10 to 80 percent in about 30 minutes using a fast charger. The iX2 also supports regenerative braking, which recovers energy from deceleration and feeds it back to the battery, extending the range and reducing the wear and tear on the brakes.
The iX2 has several features that help drivers optimize their efficiency and convenience, such as the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant, which can respond to voice commands and provide information and assistance, and the BMW Digital Key, which can store the driver’s preferences and settings, and automatically adjust them when the driver enters the car. The iX2 also has a Driving Assistant Professional package, which includes various advanced driver assistance systems, such as adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist, traffic sign recognition, and parking assist.