BMW has officially unveiled the first-ever BMW iX2, a significant addition to the X2 lineup, and a remarkable leap forward for the brand’s electric vehicle offerings. This marks the debut of the second-generation model, which now includes an all-electric variant alongside its gasoline and diesel counterparts under the X2 nameplate.
Much like the iX1 introduced last year, the all-new iX2 boasts a coupe-like design and comes to life with a single powertrain variant named the iX2 xDrive30. This model combines a dual-motor all-wheel drive system with a high-voltage battery featuring a usable capacity of 64.8 kilowatt-hours.
The combined power output is an impressive 313 horsepower (230 kilowatts), including a temporary boost function, while torque reaches 364 pound-feet (494 Newton-meters). When fully charged, the iX2 can cover a range between 259 miles (417 kilometers) and 279 miles (449 kilometers), making it even more efficient than the SUV-style iX1, rated at a maximum of 272 miles (438 kilometers) according to the WLTP cycle, at the very least.
This all-electric beauty can accelerate from 0 to 62 mph (0-100 kilometers per hour) in just 5.6 seconds and boasts a top speed of 111 mph (180 kph).
For charging convenience, the iX2 offers DC fast charging at rates of up to 130 kW. The standard onboard AC charger can deliver up to 11 kW into the high-voltage battery, fully charging it from zero to 100 percent in approximately six and a half hours, according to BMW. Furthermore, there’s an optional 22 kW three-phase AC charger available, reducing the charge time to just three hours and 45 minutes. When using DC power at the highest rate, the iX2 can swiftly replenish from 10 to 80 percent in just 29 minutes.
One notable feature is predictive thermal management for the high-voltage battery, automatically activated when using the built-in navigation system, ensuring the battery is well-prepared for each DC fast charge. Similar to the recently introduced i5, the iX2 incorporates the latest iteration of the “Max Performance Charging” software, optimizing charging efficiency by allowing the highest possible power rate to reach the battery right from the beginning of the charging process, even at state of charge (SoC) levels below 50 percent.
Described by BMW as a premium compact Sports Activity Coupe (SAC), the iX2 offers the option of an illuminated kidney grille, similar to the larger X6, along with standard LED headlights.
The rear of the iX2 has undergone a significant redesign compared to the previous generation, adopting a more pronounced sporty and coupe-like crossover appearance. The roofline elegantly merges into the rear, creating a distinct and athletic silhouette characteristic of BMW’s renowned Sports Activity Coupes.
Inside the iX2, you’ll find a standard dual-zone automatic climate control system complemented by a heat pump for enhanced efficiency in colder weather. The base package includes Bluetooth, cloud-based GPS navigation, and a six-speaker sound system with an amplifier. Optional features include the latest BMW Operating System 9, equipped with a pair of 10.25-inch and 10.7-inch displays. In terms of cargo capacity, the trunk offers between 525 and 1,400 liters, depending on the positioning of the rear seat rests.
In terms of dimensions, the iX2 measures 179.2 inches (4,554 millimeters) in length, 72.6 inches (1,845 millimeters) in width, and 61.4 inches (1,560 millimeters) in height. Its weight comes in at 4,453 pounds (2,020 kilograms). Production is slated to commence soon at BMW’s Regensburg plant in Germany, with European deliveries set to kick off in March 2024.
While a second all-electric version is expected in the summer of 2024, it’s worth noting that the iX2 EV may not be available in the United States for the time being. However, its internal combustion engine-powered counterpart will be offered in select trim levels in the U.S.
