BMW X2 test bench | Taken 2

Too bland, perhaps? Not sufficiently defined, perhaps? This is why the X2, the first of its name, had such mixed success. The second version intends to correct this. It will certainly appeal to customers willing to drive a vehicle that does nothing to go unnoticed. But you still have to have the means.

The transformation of the X2 translates quite spectacularly in terms of styling. Forgotten, the curves of the previous generation, the bodywork elements are now smoother, and the cutting of the shapes, much more angular than before, is even stricter. The proportions have changed, and the silhouette of the X2 has become both elongated and muscular. Result: this BMW will appeal to customers willing to drive a vehicle that does nothing to go unnoticed. That said, you always have to learn to deal with a tailgate whose glass, very inclined, greatly hinders rearward visibility.

Better habitability

This model offers better habitability thanks to a stretched wheelbase. At the rear, passengers therefore have a little more space (including for their heads), and the trunk's capacity has been slightly increased. The bench seat, asymmetrical and folding, is not the most comfortable. The seats lack both softness and relief. We also regret that BMW has not shown more imagination in this area by allowing, for example, the rear seat to slide or by maximizing the available storage space. There are hardly any on board.

The supposedly more modern interior presentation – we'll let you judge – however has the merit of standing out from the competition. Even if this risks disconcerting customers a little. Especially when the time comes to consult the copious menu displayed on its infotainment screen. BMW claims the X2 is more user-friendly. We do not share this opinion. During the test, this system experienced several failures.

Under the petticoat

The X2 has a lot in common with the Mini Countryman. This is nothing new. The two brands share the same architecture here (code name UKL2), the same running gear, the same assembly plant. And essentially the same road behavior. Including in its M35i version, reputed to be the sportiest. The most extroverted too with its suspension settings, its tires and its 2 L 312 hp engine. Note that dimensions and weight, both increased, have an impact on behavior.

This pocket utility vehicle remains playful in traffic and its hyperactive steering makes it one of the most pleasant vehicles to drive in the category.

Stocky and balanced, the X2 fits, without flinching, into fast and long turns. On the other hand, on winding roads, the sensations felt at the wheel are not really in line with what one would expect from a product from the Bavarian brand. In fact, on this terrain, the behavior of this BMW is more similar to that of a Mini. The shearing of the front axle, during strong acceleration, reminds us that we are dealing here with a vehicle which originally relies on its front wheels (traction) to tear it from its static position.

The X2's four-wheel drive also reminds us that it is part-time. That is to say, it only really comes into operation when the front wheels are overwhelmed. They are not always, but when they are, we quickly realize that the torque transition between the running gear lacks immediacy. The suspensions clearly lack travel. Clearly, this vehicle is completely uncomfortable on poor roads.

Acceleration is vigorous without being harsh. Between the turbocharged four-cylinder engine and the dual-clutch automatic transmission, the understanding is rather cordial. This tandem above all allows you to moderate the level of consumption, which drops below the 9 L/100 km mark if you resist the idea of ​​standing on the accelerator pedal. At the price charged for premium gasoline these days, it shouldn't be too difficult to take your foot off the gas.

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