2019 BMW X2 M35i Comes With Brand's Mightiest Four Banger
BMW has chucked a new M Performance variant into its X2 range, as no vehicle in the automaker’s lineup should ever have to go without the thirteenth letter of the alphabet. Fortunately, the brand’s decision to install a range-topping X2 also involves installing the most powerful four-cylinder engine in BMW’s history.
Knowing the UKL platform’s front-drive bias would make wedging in something like an inline-six more than a little troublesome, BMW opted for an alternative solution. That means the 2019 BMW X2 M35i gets by with a quartet of pistons totalling 2.0 liters of displacement. However, the manufacturer managed to wring 306 horsepower and 332 pound-feet of torque from the mill to avoid any embarrassment.
BMW claims that the model hurls itself to 62 mph in 4.9 seconds with a little help from launch control, turbocharging, and a redesigned cooling system. An eight-speed automatic and all-wheel-drive system come standard, with the latter being further aided by a limited-slip differential at the front axle.
Since this is the M Performance spec variant of the X2, Bimmer stiffened the suspension and lowered ride height by 10 millimeters. Upgraded brakes match with standard 19-inch wheels, however, those wanting more clearance and an even firmer ride can have an optional 20-inch set. Shoppers can also upgrade to an adaptive suspension setup with two manually adjustable modes of operation.
The exterior of the X2 M35i gains appropriate M Performance accoutrements, and we aren’t talking about the badging. BMW has bestowed the crossover with its own set of air inlets and spoilers. There’s also an M Sport exhaust system featuring two colossal four-inch tailpipes with darker accenting in lieu of chrome. In the cabin, the M35i gets a sport-inspired steering wheel and detailing. However, the M Sport seats, wireless Apple CarPlay, and head-up display remain optional.
BMW claims production of the 2019 X2 M35i should begin in November (March for the European market). Pricing and market-specific details are to be announced at a later date.
[Images: BMW]
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Following the same pattern as just about every CUV, this thing is ugly.
Agreed. Living on the French-german border, I have yet to see an X2. The X1 is surprisingly big (for a compact SUV, of course), but the Audi Q2 and VW T-roc are really funny: they're sold as compact crossovers, but look the exact same size as compact cars, often being higher by only an inch or so. So yeah, they are effectively just raised compacts (with a substantially raised MSRP, too...)