2018 Detroit Auto Show: The new BMW X2

BMW has launched yet another small crossover based on the front-wheel drive-based UKL architecture, the BMW X2, and it’s making its official debut today at the 2018 Detroit Auto Show. This is actually quite a big deal, as the X2 will put BMW in a segment that’s getting quite popular and gaining quite a lot of traction. The market for small, sporty and attractive crossovers is becoming quite big, especially in America, so the X2 gives BMW a car to compete in this growing market. So the fact that it’s launching in Detroit is actually a big deal.

Based on the aforementioned UKL architecture, the BMW X2 is, indeed, front-wheel drive based. However, at least in America, it will only be offered as a BMW X2 xDrive28i, which means it will only come with all-wheel drive and only have the brand’s B48 2.0 liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine. That 228 hp engine will be mated to an eight-speed automatic and will power its front-biased all-wheel drive system. So it will be front-wheel drive most of the time but send power to the rear wheels as needed. According to BMW, it can get from 0-60 mph in about six seconds, which isn’t too shabby.

2018 BMW X2 Detroit 5 830x553

What will really sell the X2, though, is its design. It’s far more stylish and aggressive than the X1 it shares its platform with. It’s lower, sharper and far more dynamic looking than the X1. In fact, it makes the X1 looks positively huge. It also has some interesting design quirks, such as the seemingly upside-down Kidney Grilles and the BMW roundel on the C-pillar. That latter bit is really quite awesome and harkens back to cars like the BMW 3.0 CS.

However, all of that style will cost you. Whereas the BMW X1 starts life at $33,900, the BMW X2, which is almost mechanically identical and smaller, starts at $38,400. With options, it gets will into the $40,000-range. Hey, at least it looks good.

Seen at the 2018 Detroit Auto Show, wearing its M Sport X Line trim and Galvanic Gold Metallic paint, the BMW X2 drew quite a decent crowd. It’s definitely an interesting look car and one that customers are likely to love.