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“Clothes make the man,” as the old proverb goes, emphasizing the undeniable influence of appearance on perception. This sentiment echoed in modern-day theatre with the phrase “Manners maketh man,” which highlights how refinement and style can transform one’s presence and influence. This same principle can occasionally be applied to the automotive world, as is the case with our car for this weekend, the BMW X2.
Penned with more panache and pizzazz than its more upright stablemate, the X2 is a unique-looking successor to its hot-hatch predecessor. The rather contentious C-pillar roundels from the previous car have been (thankfully) omitted and the new X2 brings with it, a heavier-hitting and slightly more mature visage, featuring strong, chunky surfaces juxtaposed with aggressive angles that culminate in a prominently raked C-pillar for a coupe-crossover aesthetic that looks more premium than what its S$8,000 higher price tag might suggest.
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- While they might look rather different, the X1 and X2 M-Sport variants are identical in almost every single aspect.
- What that means is both cars are built upon the UKL2 platform, share the same Category-A friendly 121-horsepower 230Nm 3-cylinder in-line TwinPower Turbocharged engine, the same 7-speed DCT transmission driving the front wheels, the same M-Sport adaptive suspension setup and the same interior layout and design.
- Interestingly, while the X2 is the “sportier” of the two, it actually has a slightly lower top speed of 197km/h against the X1’s 200km/h.
- Both cars though, complete the century speed with an identical timing of 10.5 seconds.
- At the time of writing, the U10 X2 sDrive16i M Sport is priced at S$254,888, S$8,000 more than its X1 sDrive 16i M Sport sibling that comes in at S$246,888.
Sharing the same UKL2 platform, 121-horsepower 230Nm 3-cylinder in-line TwinPower Turbocharged engine, 7-speed DCT transmission driving the front wheels, and M-Sport adaptive suspension setup as its X1 sibling, the BMW X2 should, by all accounts, drive exactly the same as the X1. And yet, because of its design, it somehow manages to feel different.
The X2’s sleeker silhouette does have its drawbacks, such as a cosier cabin that sacrifices interior light and rear headroom, despite BMW’s commendable efforts to mitigate these issues associated with its sportier profile. Surprisingly, the X2 excels in cargo space with 560 litres compared to the X1’s 540 litres, possibly aided by its 54mm longer length compared to the X1. However, access to this slightly more accommodating cargo area is somewhat hindered by a rather high tailgate that doesn’t sit flush with the boot floor.”
While the X2’s exterior design undoubtedly cuts a more stylish figure than its X1 counterpart, both SUVs (or SAVs in BMW speak) share a nearly identical cabin. Each features BMW’s Veganza-trimmed surfaces and a minimalist interior layout that eliminates the iDrive controls on the centre console. Both models come equipped with a 10.25-inch instrument display and a 10.7-inch infotainment screen running iDrive Operating System 9. Although this system slightly improves upon the experience offered by iDrive 8.5, it still retains many of the previous iteration’s pain points.
However, the X2’s slightly smaller cabin makes it easier to reach the infotainment screen’s buttons when needed, though doing so while driving can be a bit tricky.
Call me superficial or frivolous, but while logically I know the X1 and X2 are essentially the same car, my heart and pulse, triggered by my visual senses, are telling me otherwise. The X2, with its more appealing, chiselled body, exudes a heightened feel-good factor. Its stronger lines and aggressive stance not only catch the eye but also evoke a sense of excitement that the X1, despite its similarities under the hood, doesn’t quite match.
This visual allure encourages a more spirited interaction as if the X2’s exterior design has infused it with an extra dose of enthusiasm and personality on the road. This heightened engagement naturally leads to a greater sense of enjoyment behind the wheel.
In the realm of automobiles, much like in personal style, the BMW X2 exemplifies ‘Clothes maketh man.’ Its sleek profile and bold design set it apart, offering a dynamic driving experience that resonates emotionally. Despite practical compromises, the X2 compensates with increased road presence and an undeniable ‘feel-good’ factor, appealing to those who view automotive design as an extension of their personal identity.
Opting for the X2 over the X1 isn’t solely a matter of aesthetics; it signifies a preference for a vehicle that not only performs admirably but also makes a statement. Ultimately, the X2 underscores that while practical considerations are essential, a car’s design and visual appeal can profoundly enhance overall ownership satisfaction. Surely, that bit of extra joy is worth the additional S$8,000 investment.
