BMW X2 xDrive25e review: the sportier plug-in hybrid sibling

Like the Larrabee brothers in the film classic “Sabrina”, the X1 xDrive25e and X2 xDrive25e come from the same family and have received the same “upbringing” - in this case, they share their mechanical components and platform - yet their personalities are markedly different.

While the former is positioned as the more family-focused and restrained option, the latter adopts a sportier, more dynamic and less conservative appearance that is more likely to turn heads, particularly in the colour of the test car.

It achieves this by giving up some of the practicality offered by its sibling, although that does not stop it from remaining a model worth considering.

Two distinct personalities

Using precisely the same plug-in hybrid system as the X1 xDrive25e we have already tested, the X2 xDrive25e combines a 125 bhp petrol engine with a 95 bhp electric motor mounted at the rear.

Together, they deliver a healthy 220 bhp of maximum combined power and four-wheel drive, allowing BMW’s SUV - or is it more of a crossover? - to take on two very different characters according to what is required.

When the aim, or necessity, is to save fuel, its effective battery management enables average consumption of around 5 l/100 km. With the battery fully charged, it can also cover more than 40 km in fully electric mode without difficulty.

When it is time to explore the X2’s “dynamic streak”, the “Sport” and “Sport+” driving modes increase the steering weight and sharpen throttle response. In this setting, the hybrid powertrain does not disappoint, enabling it to maintain a pace that can be genuinely impressive.

Everything happens far more quickly than expected, providing a chance to appreciate the X2’s dynamic abilities. Its steering is quick and direct, the suspension controls its 1800 kg remarkably well, and the security provided by four-wheel drive allows it to tackle corners at a very high pace.

Is it entertaining? Not especially. Instead, it offers very high levels of effectiveness and safety, giving the driver reassuring confidence to take corners quickly without fearing that “your talent will run out”.

Naturally, fuel consumption “soars” in these circumstances, and I saw the trip computer display averages between 9.5 and 10 l/100 km. Even so, considering the pace involved, these figures should not be regarded as excessive; without the plug-in hybrid system, they would be higher still.

What is the BMW X2 xDrive25e like inside?

Once behind the wheel of the BMW X2 xDrive25e, it is not easy to spot differences from its “sibling”. The design remains the same, as do the perceived quality and solidity. The only immediately noticeable changes are some more eye-catching trim finishes and the M sports steering wheel, which looks more appealing and feels good in the hands.

It is only rear-seat passengers who will notice any real difference in terms of space. Headroom has been reduced, as its exterior design demands, but this does not compromise the comfort of those travelling in the back.

The boot, meanwhile, offers 410 litres of capacity - 60 litres less than in the regular X2 models and 40 litres less than the 450 litres provided by the X1 xDrive25e.

Is the BMW X2 xDrive25e the right car for you?

For anyone who appreciates the plug-in hybrid qualities of the X1 xDrive25e but considers it too conservative, the X2 is very likely to be the ideal choice.

After all, it retains all of its “sibling’s” technical strengths while adding an appearance that, in my view, works very well and makes it more appealing to younger buyers or those who favour a sportier design.

Is it an especially suitable choice for families? Not really, but the X1 already fulfils that role. The BMW X2 xDrive25e serves a purpose not unlike that of former three-door versions, many of which featured a more distinctive, sportier look. It does all this while maintaining the same convincing balance between consumption and performance.