BMW will further inflate its lineup with the upcoming X2 cross-coupe

By Miles Branman May 15, 2015

These days, BMW is becoming exceedingly good at discovering “gaps” in its lineup, and filling them with new models. It would be easy to fault the German automaker for over-extending its vehicle range if the new cars didn’t sell, but in truth, the vast majority find their way off dealer lots.

Perhaps the only issue BMW has experienced with the introduction of so many cars and crossovers is that the new models actually rob sales from existing vehicles. The X1 has cut into X3 sales, the 5 Series GT has eaten into to the X5’s sales, etc. Still, BMW wishes to create a model for every type of customer, even the ones who don’t know they need it yet.

The news that BMW executives have confirmed a new crossover-coupe to be produced and sold in 2017 is therefore no real surprise. Slotting between the X1 and X3, the X2 will be a five-door model based on BMW’s UKL platform that underpins vehicles like the 2 Series ActiveTourer and 2 Series Gran Tourer.

Development of the new model has reportedly already begun and prototypes will begin testing within weeks. BMW’s X2 will target rivals like the Range Rover Evoque and Audi Q3. Three-cylinder and four-cylinder gas and diesel engines will be available, paired with front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. A range-topping X2 M is also being planned, and will use a 300 horsepower version of the B48 engine found in the BMW 2 Series ActiveTourer.

Styling will be inspired by the BMW X4 and X6 (think shrunken-down versions of either), including a sharp-angled rear liftgate. The interior will carry over from the X1 for the most part, though rear seat occupants will likely have less headroom.

We can expect to see the X2 in concept form as soon as the 2016 Geneva Motor Show.

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