BMW X2 review

Despite costing more than the equivalent X1 on a model-for-model basis, the X2 doesn’t offer any additional equipment. That’s disappointing given that you miss out on a sliding rear bench and there isn’t as much space for people or luggage. It seems even worse when you compare it with the Volvo XC40, a larger car with much more standard equipment for similar money.

However, even the four-wheel-drive xDrive20d model is competitive on CO2 emissions, which helps to minimise benefit-in-kind tax for company car users. It can also boast better fuel economy than the similarly powerful XC40 D4. The petrol sDrive20i’s running costs aren’t massively worse either – fuel economy drops by about 10mpg and emissions rise by fewer than 10g/km of CO2. Factor in a price that’s around £2,500 cheaper, and we reckon it’s worth going without four-wheel drive and opting for the petrol.

If you’re thinking of buying one outright, it’s worth noting that the X2 loses value more quickly than other premium rivals. As a private buy, higher depreciation means it’ll cost more to run than a similarly priced XC40 or Jaguar E-Pace, even accounting for its impressive fuel economy.

Many will buy their X2 on PCP finance, and it’s disappointing to find a distinct lack of attractive deals on the model. You can drive a very well-equipped XC40 for a much cheaper monthly payment under the same terms.

Entry-level SE trim comes with all the basics, including 17in alloy wheels, dual-zone climate control and rear parking sensors, and also boasts an electric tailgate, sat-nav and a DAB radio. Sport trim is worth considering if you’re tempted by bigger wheels; it has 18in alloy wheels as well as attractive contrast stitching on the dashboard, LED headlights, ambient LED lighting and body-coloured roof trims for not a lot of extra cash.

M Sport is a popular choice, but the 19in wheels and stiffer suspension don’t do the ride any favours. Although its heated front seats appeal, you are mainly paying for a sporty bodykit and racier interior trim. M Sport X only really adds leather seats and a few bits of silver exterior trim that give the X2 a little more of an off-road flavour.

All things considered, we’d stick with SE trim and then spend a bit of cash on a few choice options. Metallic paint will contribute towards resale value, and heated front seats are a worthwhile extra on cold mornings. We’d also contemplate adding lumbar support, front parking sensors and keyless entry.

Other kit available includes adaptive cruise control, a panoramic sunroof (which comes at the expense of head room), a rear-view camera, electric seat adjustment and a heated steering wheel.

Although we don’t yet have any data on the X2, the X1 on which it’s based finished mid-table in the family SUV category in the 2018 What Car? Reliability Survey. Although it beat the Volkswagen Tiguan and Mercedes GLA, it couldn't match the Audi Q3, and the Kia Sportage was a clear leader. As a manufacturer, BMW only finished 16th out of 31 manufacturers in overall reliability.

Better news is that BMW’s three-year/unlimited-mileage warranty betters the three-year/60,000-mile warranties offered by some rivals.

Euro NCAP has given the X2 five stars for crash test safety. It has automatic emergency braking up to 35mph and the usual selection of airbags, traction control and stability control. Lane-keeping assistance, lane-change assist and pedestrian detection are all optional.

Although the X2 is better than the Jaguar E-Pace in protecting adults in the event of a crash and has better safety equipment (such as automatic emergency braking), the Volvo XC40 is even better.

Meanwhile, security is impressive. An alarm, engine immobiliser and remote central locking are fitted to every X2.

For all the latest reviews, advice and new car deals, sign up to the What Car? newsletter here