BMW has recently revealed its latest addition to its electric vehicle lineup, the BMW iX2. The iX2 is a compact electric SUV that combines the sporty performance and stylish design of the popular X2 model with the environmental benefits and cutting-edge technology of the i brand. The iX2 is the first fully electric model in the X family, and it aims to offer a dynamic driving experience with zero emissions.
The iX2 results from BMW’s ambitious plan to expand its electric vehicle portfolio in the coming years. BMW aims to have 25 electrified models by 2025, including 12 fully electric models. The iX2 joins other electric models, such as the i3 hatchback, the i4 sedan, the i8 sports car, and the upcoming iX flagship SUV.
The BMW iX2 is expected to go on sale in Europe in early 2024 with a starting price of $54,000. The iX2 will compete with other compact electric SUVs, such as the Tesla Model Y, the Volkswagen ID.4, and the Hyundai Ioniq 5.
In this article, we will take a closer look at the features and specifications of the new BMW iX2 and see how it compares to its rivals.
Powertrain and Performance
The iX2 is based on the same platform as the BMW X2 but has been modified to accommodate an electric powertrain. The iX2 has a single electric motor that produces 228 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque, enabling it to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 6.8 seconds and reach a top speed of 112 mph.
The iX2 has a battery capacity of 64.8 kWh, which gives it a range of up to 217 miles on a single charge. A fast charger can recharge the battery from 10% to 80% in 34 minutes.
The iX2 also features an intelligent energy management system that optimizes the efficiency and performance of the vehicle. The system can adjust the power output of the motor, the regenerative braking intensity, and the climate control settings according to the driving mode, the road conditions, and the driver’s preferences. The system can also use navigation data and real-time traffic information to plan the journey's best route and charging strategy.
The iX2 offers three driving modes: Comfort, Eco Pro, and Sport. Comfort mode provides a balanced setting for everyday driving, Eco Pro mode maximizes the range by reducing energy consumption, and Sport mode enhances the responsiveness and agility of the vehicle.
The iX2 delivers a smooth and quiet ride thanks to its low center of gravity, its adaptive suspension system, and its sound insulation. The iX2 also has high stability and traction thanks to its all-wheel drive system, electronic stability control system, and dynamic stability control system.
Design and Style
The design of the iX2 is inspired by both the X2 and the i brand. The iX2 has a distinctive front end with a large kidney grille, sensors, and cameras for driver assistance systems. The grille is flanked by slim LED headlights with U-shaped daytime running lights. The front bumper has large air intakes and a blue accent strip that signifies the electric nature of the vehicle.
The side profile of the iX2 is sleek and aerodynamic, with a sloping roofline, a muscular shoulder line, and a chrome window surround. The iX2 has 19-inch alloy wheels as standard, with 20-inch and 21-inch options available. The wheel arches are painted in the same color as the body, giving the iX2 a more refined look than the X2.
The rear end of the iX2 is also sporty and modern, with a spoiler, a diffuser, and a blue accent strip. The LED taillights are connected by a light bar that runs across the tailgate. The iX2 has no exhaust pipes, as it does not produce any emissions.
The iX2 is available in six exterior colors, including two exclusive shades for the i brand: Galvanic Gold and Phytonic Blue. The iX2 also has a choice of three trim levels: Sport Line, M Sport, and M Sport X. The Sport Line has black and silver accents, the M Sport has a more aggressive body kit and blue brake calipers, and the M Sport X has a contrasting gray cladding and a panoramic sunroof.
The interior of the iX2 is spacious and luxurious, with high-quality materials and a minimalist design. The iX2 has a digital cockpit with a 10.7-inch instrument cluster and a 10.25-inch infotainment screen, both housed within one long panel. The infotainment system runs on the new BMW iDrive with QuickSelect and BMW Operating System 9, which offers a user-friendly interface, natural voice control, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and over-the-air updates.
The iX2 has a leather-wrapped steering wheel, a leather gear selector, and a touch-sensitive controller for the infotainment system. The iX2 also has a head-up display, a wireless charging pad, a Harman Kardon sound system, and ambient lighting. The seats are upholstered in Sensatec synthetic leather or Vernasca genuine leather, with contrast stitching and blue piping. The iX2 can seat five passengers comfortably, with 25 mm of extra knee room for the rear occupants compared to the X2.
The iX2 has a generous boot capacity of 525 liters, which can be expanded to 1,430 liters by folding the rear seats. The iX2 also has a storage compartment under the floor for the charging cable and other items. The iX2 has an electric tailgate that can be opened and closed with a foot gesture.
Technology and Safety
The iX2 is equipped with a range of advanced technology and safety features that make it a smart and reliable companion on the road. The iX2 has a Driving Assistant Professional package that includes adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist, lane change assist, traffic jam assist, cross-traffic alert, and emergency stop assist. The iX2 also has a Parking Assistant Plus package that includes a rear-view camera, a surround-view camera, a 3D view, and a remote parking function that allows the driver to park the vehicle from outside using a smartphone app.
The iX2 also has a BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant that can respond to voice commands and learn drivers' preferences and habits. The iX2 also has a BMW Digital Key that can turn a compatible smartphone into a key for the vehicle. The iX2 also has a BMW Connected app that can remotely monitor and control the vehicle’s functions, such as locking and unlocking, climate control, charging status, and location.
The iX2 also has a high level of sustainability, as it uses recycled and renewable materials for its production and operation. The iX2 has a carbon fiber-reinforced plastic (CFRP) roof that reduces weight and increases rigidity. The iX2 also has a recycled aluminum hood and doors and a recycled plastic front bumper. The iX2 also uses renewable electricity for its battery production and charging and has a high recyclability rate at the end of its life cycle.
Comparison with Rivals
The iX2 is a strong contender in the compact electric SUV segment, as it offers a compelling combination of performance, design, technology, and sustainability. The iX2 has a price and size similar to its main rival, the Tesla Model Y, but it has a lower range and power output. The iX2 also faces competition from the Volkswagen ID.4 and the Hyundai Ioniq 5, which have lower prices and higher ranges but less premium features and brand appeal.
Here is a table that compares the key specifications of the iX2 and its rivals:
| Model | Price | Power | Torque | 0-60 mph | Top speed | Range | Battery | Charging |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| BMW iX2 xDrive30 | $54,000 | 228 hp | 295 lb-ft | 6.8 s | 112 mph | 217 mi | 64.8 kWh | 34 min (10-80%) |
| Tesla Model Y Long Range | $52,990 | 384 hp | 376 lb-ft | 4.8 s | 135 mph | 326 mi | 75 kWh | 32 min (10-80%) |
| Volkswagen ID.4 Pro | $39,995 | 201 hp | 229 lb-ft | 7.6 s | 99 mph | 250 mi | 82 kWh | 38 min (5-80%) |
| Hyundai Ioniq 5 Long Range | $45,000 (est.) | 302 hp | 446 lb-ft | 5.2 s | 115 mph | 300 mi | 77.4 kWh | 18 min (10-80%) |
As the table shows, the iX2 has a higher price and a lower range than its rivals, but it also has a more premium and sporty image, a more luxurious and spacious interior, and a more advanced and sustainable technology package. The iX2 is a good choice for customers who value the BMW brand, the SAC concept, and the i vision.
Conclusion
The BMW iX2 is a new and exciting addition to the BMW electric vehicle lineup, as it brings the SAC concept to the compact segment. The iX2 is a stylish, sporty, intelligent electric SUV with a dynamic driving experience and a luxurious and spacious interior.
