BMW’s all-new, electric iX2 has hot hatch-rivalling performance

Published: 10 October 2023 Updated: 10 October 2023

► Battery-electric version of X2 revealed
► 266-mile range, 5.6sec 0-62mph
► iX2 deliveries start in March 2024

BMW has revealed the all-new iX2 – its electric companion to the X2. The new, small coupe SUV will make its global debut at the 2023 Japan Mobility Show (also known as the Tokyo motor show) later in October.

As you’d expect, the new iX2 is very closely related to the actually-quite-good iX1 SUV including the platform and powertrain, as well as the interior.

But that design? Bespoke (and, er, controversial) to the X2. The overall shape has taken quite a turn from the hatchback-on-stilts look of the previous-generation X2, with lots of blocky details and impactful lines. The iX2 features a blanked-off grille with a diamond motif similar to that seen on the iX and blue detailing in its headlights in order to (only very subtly) differentiate it from the combustion-powered X2.

The interior is largely unchanged from the X1, which includes a smaller version of BMW’s curved display and a high centre console that does without the brand’s iDrive click-wheel controller – BMW insiders say the screen is much closer to the driver than in other cars that its inclusion doesn’t seem as warranted.

Here, though, the iX2 uses BMW Operating System 9 – the latest software technology from the brand, which is even newer than what you get on the i7 flagship. OS9 introduces a new home screen that always has the navigation map displayed and promotes swifter integration with your phone via Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

The iX2 is only available in M Sport trim and, as for performance, one variant of the iX2 has been announced so far: the eDrive30. That model includes a single 308bhp e-motor driving the front wheels, and includes a hot hatch-baiting 0-62mph sprint time of 5.6 seconds. BMW also claims a maximum range of 266 miles.

The new iX2 is available to order now priced from £56,540, with deliveries starting in March 2024 in the UK.

By Jake Groves

CAR's deputy news editor, gamer, serial Lego-ist, lover of hot hatches

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