Used 2022 BMW X2

The 2022 BMW X2 is one of those genre-bending crossovers with a sloping roof. It’s based on the same mechanicals as the subcompact X1, but makes a bigger deal of styling than practicality. But that’s OK. There’s room for all sorts in the automotive world.

This approach has already been well-trodden by BMW, as the X3/X4 and X5/X6 relationships illustrate. It turns out some people want a certain sportiness, yet still require an elevated driving position and a smattering of functionality. Otherwise, they might have bought a BMW Z4 or a Porsche 718 Boxster.

Providing the smallest crossover footprint, the 2022 X2 brings its own particular charm, looks, and poise. This mix may not work well for families, but for young singles (or couples) or older couples who can finally downsize, it’s an interesting contender.

The joy of being a subcompact crossover with a turbocharged engine is an advantageous power-to-weight ratio. Throw in BMW’s undeniable mastery of driving dynamics, and the 2022 X2 becomes a fine source of kinetic entertainment.

Don’t expect a pillowy ride quality, though. The short wheelbase (the distance between the front and rear axles) doesn’t help, but the X2 is set up to keep its composure on a mountain road and provide some feedback to the driver, not insulate its occupants from rough surfaces.

How fast is the BMW X2? The sDrive28i can run from standstill to 60 mph in 6.6 seconds. Thanks to the extra traction of all-wheel drive, the xDrive28i does it in 6.3 seconds. Quite respectable times, but the 4.7 seconds of the M35i is more impressive. Until BMW does something crazy like come up with an X2 M, this M35i model is the highest expression of the X2. And we’re grateful for it.

The most affordable new BMW crossover is the X1, the vehicle on which the X2 is based. So it’s logical, if slightly anti-climactic, that the interior they share is not as posh as some of the company’s fancier models. The added flair of the X2’s exterior creates greater contrast between outside and in.

It also comes as no surprise that the X2’s lower roof impacts rear-passenger room and cargo-carrying ability compared with the X1. Up front, though, it’s a better story, with ample space, comfort, and support. A nice-sized 8.8-inch touchscreen tops off the center console. BMW’s infotainment system is one of the best, and this one comes with navigation and satellite radio as standard.

There are some downsides, however. For instance, the optional wireless charging pad isn’t big enough for larger smartphones. And the wide rear pillars hinder outward vision.

It’s subtle, but the 2022 X2 pays an understated homage to BMW cars of the 20th century with the company’s round emblem set into each rear pillar. The rest of the vehicle sports various BMW elements, such as the double grille and assertive headlights. They conspire to make the X2 look bigger than it really is.

How big is the BMW X2? Not much more than 14 feet long and shorter than its X1 counterpart. Then again, it is a subcompact crossover. Standard colors are white or black. Metallic finishes cost extra, the priciest being Storm Bay (a kind of mid-to-dark grey) at $1,200.

Naturally, the M35i has more going for it, such as aerodynamic additions, bigger wheels, and blue-painted brake calipers.

X2 M35i
The thrill of driving is found in most BMW vehicles. There’s just more of it when there’s also an M in the model name. Not only does it have a more powerful engine than the 28i models — and 301 horsepower in a subcompact is definitely fun — it also upgrades the suspension, steering rack, exhaust system, and brakes.

HARMAN KARDON SURROUND SOUND SYSTEM
One of those extras that can be a daily pleasure. A bit of a pricey option, admittedly, at $875, but this 360-watt system really does sound great. Of the 12 speakers in total, two bass speakers are under the front seats for a visceral rumble.

The sDrive28i and xDrive28i have virtually the same standard features, except for the all-wheel drive installed in the latter. They both come with 18-inch alloy wheels, LED headlights with cornering lights, rain-sensing wipers, simulated leather upholstery, dual-zone automatic climate control, 8-way power-adjustable front seats, and a powered tailgate.

On the safety front, there’s forward-collision warning with automatic emergency braking and a few other systems that are part of the Active Driving Assistant (detailed in our Safety section). The X2 also comes with parking sensors at both ends, plus BMW Assist eCall to summon emergency services.

The X2’s infotainment system is based around an 8.8-inch touchscreen, featuring navigation with real-time traffic information and over-the-air map updates, Bluetooth phone and audio connectivity, Apple CarPlay smartphone integration (but not Android Auto), and a 205-watt/7-speaker audio system.

At this point, we would normally gripe about extras in premium German cars costing too much. But choose wisely, and it may not be so bad. For example, the adaptive suspension for the M35i is $500, which is kind of reasonable for someone considering a range-topping BMW.

Also on offer are a panoramic moonroof, heated front seats/steering wheel, self-parking feature, hands-free tailgate operation, self-dimming mirrors, head-up display, adaptive cruise control, Harman Kardon surround-sound system, and a wireless charging/Wi-Fi package.

Sadly, BMW does not offer blind-spot monitoring with the X2.

Both engines in the 2022 X2 range are turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder units. In the sDrive28i and xDrive28i, it develops 228 horsepower. The sDrive28i has a front-wheel-drive configuration (FWD), xDrive indicates all-wheel drive (AWD).

The M35i comes to the party with 301 horsepower. All-wheel drive is standard in this model. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) puts average fuel economy at a reasonable 26 miles per gallon — only one mile per gallon thirstier than its 28i stablemates.

All X2 variants use an 8-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters mounted beneath the steering wheel. And both engines have an automatic engine stop/restart function to save a little fuel, which can be turned off if required. Premium gasoline is recommended.

2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4 (sDrive28i, xDrive28i)
228 horsepower @ 5,000-6,000 rpm
258 lb-ft of torque @ 1,450-4,500 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 24/32 mpg (FWD), 24/31 mpg (AWD)

2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4 (M35i)
301 horsepower @ 5,000-6,250 rpm
331 lb-ft of torque @ 1,750-4,500 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 23/30 mpg