Electric versions of new BMW iX2 could be the best option
This new SUV with the sleek coupe-like profile is available with a choice of petrol engines or electric motors. And it could represent a turning point for the brand.
BMW’s second-generation X2 mounts a strong case for switching to electric power.
The petrol version of the compact SUV, the xDrive20i, is the cheapest model in the range at about $83,000 drive-away, but the electric iX2 eDrive20, which starts at about $90,000 drive-away, represents better value for buyers able to lease the car through a salary sacrifice package at work.
The quirk comes courtesy of the Federal Government’s generous fringe benefits tax exemption for EVs, which slashes thousands of dollars off the average company car lease package.
BMW has also thought of the enthusiast, offering a petrol-powered $101,000 M35i range topper that reaches 100km/h in just 5.4 seconds.
Longer, taller and sleeker than before, the coupe-like X2 shares its underpinnings with the more traditional X1 wagon, which is the top seller for the brand.
It costs about $3000 to $5500 more than the equivalent X1, although BMW has kept down the price of the electric iX2 xDrive 30 to ensure it’s eligible for the FBT exemption.
Standard gear includes a powered tailgate, head-up display, dual-zone ventilation and Veganza trim that looks like leather.
There’s also remote connectivity and a 10.3-inch curved instrument cluster feeding into a 10.7-inch central touchscreen that incorporates BMW’s latest operating system, giving access to the Android app store.
All but the iX2 eDrive20 – which arrives in a few months – have powered and heated front seats, blind-spot warning and lane-keep assistance.
Electric iX2 models also have two charging cables and a 12-month subscription to Chargefox public fast chargers.
The M35i has 20-inch alloys, a 12-speaker Harman Kardon sound system, panoramic sunroof and leather.
As with the X2’s exterior, the cabin is fresh and up-market.
The front seats offer terrific support, there’s ample opportunity to customise the design with different colours and trims and everything is beautifully put together.
But the back seats have modest head and legroom.
The 150kW/300Nm 2.0-litre engine in the xDrive20i is stout but uninspiring.
A seven-speed twin-clutch auto isn’t as seamless as a regular auto off the mark but delivers slick shifts on the move.
The 233kW/400Nm 2.0-litre in the M35i steps up the performance for some hot-hatch excitement.
It has a beefier exhaust sound through its quad exhausts, while optional 21-inch wheels on our test vehicle car had impressive cornering ability.
The electric xDrive30 we drove on launch was a refreshing middle ground, still delivering acceptable cornering thrills, despite additional weight from the 64.8kWh battery pack. It weighs more than two tonnes, some 400kg more than the cheapest petrol model.
Riding on 19-inch wheels, it felt the most comfortable, possibly due to the additional kilos rather than the rubber.
With 230kW and 494Nm on tap, the xDrive30 effortlessly zips to 100km/h in 5.6 seconds, delivering a more modern driving experience, complete with futuristic sounds crafted by Oscar winner Hans Zimmer.
The 395km claimed range from the 64.8kWh battery is nothing special but will suffice for suburban dwellers.
The single-motor eDrive20 has more range – 455km – but less performance. It puts out 150kW and 250Nm and takes a leisurely 8.6 seconds to reach 100km/h. BMW believes, however, that some buyers will choose range over performance.
The iX2 can charge at up to 130kW on a DC public charger, delivering a 10 to 80 per cent charge in less than half an hour.
Buyers with three-phase power charge at up to 22kW on an AC outlet, for a full charge in three hours, 45 minutes. Slower 7.4kW wallbox charging takes about 10 hours.
There are other electric SUVs that are cheaper, with longer ranges and faster charging, but the iX2’s sleek design and attention to detail help justify the premium prices.
VERDICT
Three and a half stars
Almost as slick to drive as it looks.
BMW iX2 xDrive30
PRICE: From about $93,000 drive-away
WARRANTY/SERVICING: Five yrs/unlimited km, $2200 for 6 yrs/unlimited km
SAFETY: Seven airbags, auto emergency braking, blind-spot and lane-keep assist, rear cross-traffic alert, driver monitoring, exit warning, speed-sign recognition
POWER: Dual electric motors, 230kW/494Nm
RANGE: 395km
SPARE: Repair kit
BOOT: 525 litres
F1 brings back the biff, even if NRL couldn’t
Rugby league fans wanted to bring back the biff years ago but the honchos resisted. Thankfully F1 has shrugged off the gentlemanly behaviour for some fender bender action.
To the batmobile! Introducing BMW’s maddest car yet
The XM is the sort of car that inspires people to turn up on your doorstep and ask questions, such as ‘Have you gone mad?’ And yet also ‘Can you please take me for a ride?’