If, like me, you're a fan of BMW’s coupe styling then the new X2 and the first iX2 all-electric should have considerable appeal, as long as you can afford them.
The iX2 is the first fully-electric X2. Both it and a petrol version of it will be available in March of next year. The EV version runs on two electric motors and BMW is claiming an optimum range of 449 kilometres.
However, the usual caveats apply here as they do to all claimed ranges for electric cars. The prediction is based on pretty much ideal conditions and potential customers should be aware of the factors that affect the range of an electric car - cold weather (when the heater and demister are in use, for example), motorway speeds and personal driving habits.
The iX 2 will cost €69,500. It uses a 64.8 kWh battery that can be charged (again the timing in based on optimal high-power charging) from 10% charge to 80% charge in about half an hour. Power is delivered to all four wheels.
Both cars are longer and taller than the X2 they replace, with noticeably shorter overhangs front and back. Front and rear lights are LED’s and the large kidney grille is again in evidence. Standard equipment also includes a rear camera and an automatic tailgate.
There are large digital screens for display and functions but BMW has dropped its rotary controller for flipping functions, which is a pity because it enables the driver to concentrate more when doing so.
The conventional X2 has a three-cylinder 1.5 petrol engine with a mild hybrid function.
BMW has again been further developing its connectivity functions and both these cars are capable of video streaming, and even gaming, on the move. You’ll have to pay extra for these functions, however, as you will for a panoramic roof.
