BMW continues to expand its presence in the fast-growing small luxury utility segment with the introduction a new X2 sport activity vehicle: the X2 M35i.
The automaker’s M-branded vehicles are known for their high level of performance and the 2019 X2 M35i keeps that legacy intact with a 302 horsepower 2.0-liter TwinPower turbocharged 4-cylinder engine.
The new engine is produced by BMW M GmbH, which is akin to Mercedes-Benz relationship with AMG. It’s the first M Performance 4-cylinder engine and at the same time BMW’s most powerful production 4-cylinder version yet. BMW M left almost no major engine component group untouched.
The crankshaft has been reinforced and features larger main bearings. New pistons with slightly reduced compression ratio (9.5:1 vs 10.2:1) allow for a larger turbocharger and increased boost. The intake airflow tract has been improved for higher flow. The cooling system has been upgraded to complement the increased vehicle capabilities, according to the automaker.
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The 2019 BMW X2 M35i comes standard with xDrive intelligent all-wheel drive technology in conjunction with the 8-speed sport automatic transmission including Launch Control to ensure all that power comes with plenty of control. The 8-speed automatic transmission features steering wheel shift paddles, and the SAV runs from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.9 seconds.
The under the hood upgrades are impressive, and are matched the sporty exterior look. The M Performance elements are finished in Cerium Grey and the ute gets an aero kit based on the X2 M Sport Package.
The headlines and fog lights get LEDs creating an assertive look that suits the performance of the new model. That look includes the new Cerium Grey double kidney grill, side air intakes in the front fascia that cool the brakes and engine.
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The back of X2 M35i boasts a distinctive M rear spoiler and with an M Sport exhaust system with two tailpipes (each 100 mm in diameter) for both more aggressive sound and appearance. Nineteen-inch Orbit Grey bicolor M Sport light alloy wheels in 715M styling are standard, (optional: 20-inch M Sport light alloy wheels in 721M styling and in Cerium Grey bicolor) and round off the exterior design features.
Going faster in a luxury vehicle also dictates having the necessary safety and driver-assistance technology to ensure a safe ride, and the X2 M35i meets the standard. The optional full-color BMW Head-Up Display offers a display range that is unprecedented in this vehicle segment.
The latest generation of BMW ConnectedDrive and the new BMW Connected App are fitted. The wireless use of Apple CarPlay set further highlights. Driver assistant systems include, camera-based technologies such as Forward Collision Warning with City Collision Mitigation and Lane Departure Warning.
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The ute, which was debuted in March, begins production for the U.S. market in November 2018 at the company’s SAV plant in Spartanburg, South Carolina. No pricing information was released.
