Priced at R879,738, the X2 sDrive18i M Sport packs the familiar turbocharged-petrol, three-cylinder unit, displacing 1,499cc. It is linked to a seven-speed automatic, with drive sent to the front wheels.
For the more performance-minded buyer, the X2 M35i would hold appeal, provided they are willing to spend the extra outlay required. It costs R1,223,936 and boasts all-wheel drive and a 1,995cc turbocharged-petrol engine with four cylinders. Like with the sDrive18i M Sport, a seven-speed automatic is on duty.
As is the case with the BMW range, a five-year/100,000km maintenance plan and two-year/unlimited mileage warranty are included.
We drove both examples on the launch and started off with the more potent X2 M35i. Visually, its catalogue of items is quite complementary to the edgy basic shape of the model. A more aggressive body-kit and serious rolling stock in the form of 21-inch wheels endows the M35i with true presence.
Behind the wheel, buyers will find an identical layout to that of the X1, which is a good thing. The execution is minimalistic, but inviting, with the user-friendly (once you get used to it) BMW infotainment system running the latest operating platform in the stable of the brand. Dropping a few cogs to merge safely onto the freeway, the plucky engine acoustics took us by surprise.
It sounds as spirited as the exterior would have you think, while the flexibility afforded by the quoted 233kW/400Nm facilitates confident overtaking. The M35i has a zesty, energetic feel, with a surefooted handling character and typical all-wheel drive grip. According to BMW, the model will dash from standstill to 100km/h in 5.4 seconds if you launch it right.
