Text and photos by Chris Van Hoven
SMC Asia Car Distributors Corporation has launched the much-anticipatedBMW X2 at the recently concluded BMW Joyfest 2018, further strengthening the German marque’s Sport Activity Coupe (SAC) lineup.
Far from being just another segment addition to fill market niches, the BMW X2 stands out as a unique crossover all its own, reflecting distinctive characteristics that begin from its exterior, extending to its cabin, and all the way to its underpinnings.
New styling cues
The exterior features certain key design elements that make the BMW X2 stand out from the rest.The signature kidney grille is wider at the bottom than at the top, giving the car a broader, sportier appearance. It’s the first time that this design detail makes its debut on a modern BMW. In addition, the BMW roundel on the C-pillars references a much-loved detail of classical BMW coupes, such as the 2000 CS and 3.0 CSL, highlighting its sporting DNA. The front bumper is dominated by a large hexagonal element situated below the kidney grille, finished in a signature color: Frozen Grey, unique only to the M Sport X package. The squared off wheel arches and lower body claddings are also finished in Frozen Grey, with the rocker panel featuring more hexagonal design elements finished in body color.
Plush interior
The BMW X2’s interior blends signature elements with the understated ruggedness of a BMW X model. The new trim “Aluminum Hexagon Anthracite” is available for the first time with the M Sport X package, and is featured prominently on the dashboard and interior door panels. The standard sports seats are wrapped in new upholstery as well, which features a Micro Hexagon fabric / Alcantara Anthracite combination with contrasting stitching. The standard lighting package allows drivers to choose from various colors for interior mood lighting including orange, lilac, mint, bronze, blue, and white. Generous luggage space is available at the rear, with a capacity of 470 liters, while numerous pockets and stowage bins enhance its level of practicality.
Plenty of power
Under the hood is BMW’s 2.0-liter TwinPower turbo diesel engine that produces an output of 190 hp and 400 Nm of maximum torque, mated to an eight-speed Steptronic Sport automatic transmission. The M Sport suspension features stiffened springs and dampers, along with a 10mm lower ride height than standard, which improves agility and reduces body roll. The BMW X2 is equipped with the xDrive intelligent all-wheel drive system, which rewards the driver with additional control and safety during slippery road conditions.
The BMW X2 xDrive20d M Sport X comes in seven exterior paint shades including two new colors, namely Misano Blue and Galvanic Gold, and comes with a retail price of P4,390,000.