BMW X2 M35i revealed ahead of 2019 Australian debut

BMW has revealed its latest M Performance car offering in the form of the 2019 BMW X2 M35i. Based on the X2 coupe SUV, the M35i uses a new 225kW/450Nm 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine – the first four-cylinder engine from BMW’s M Division.

To be launched in Australia in the first half of 2019, the X2 M35i will be priced north of the current top spec X2 xDrive20d’s $59,900 asking price but better equipped and significantly faster as well. On launch, the X2 M35i will have no direct competitors – at least until the Audi SQ2 eventuates.

Not a full-fat M model like the M2 or M3, but also sitting above the regular X2 range, the X2 M35i is an M Performance model in the same line as the X4 M40i. Featuring a new 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine that produces 225kW of power and 450Nm of torque, the X2 M35i is capable of a 4.9 second sprint to 100km/h and an electronically limited top speed of 250km/h.

Unlike the standard X2, the M35i is equipped with an eight-speed automatic transmission and the company’s xDrive all-wheel drive system with launch control – there’s no dual-clutch unit here. BMW lists fuel consumption of between 8.1 and 8.4L/100km depending on wheel size, though Australian specific figures are yet to be announced.

Distinguishable on the outside by its 19- or optional 20-inch alloy wheels and M Performance-specific bumper styling, the X2 M35i is about subtle performance. Underneath the body is lowered M Sport adaptive suspension, as well as stiffer springs compared with the standard X2. There is an M Sport differential at the front to reduce lost traction and the exhaust tips are wider than the standard X2 – 100mm to be exact – and the company claims that the car’s rear axle has been redesigned.

The M Performance changes on the inside have also been subtle. An M Sport steering wheel with paddle shifters is standard equipment, as are sports seats in a variety of trim choices. Optional will be a set of M Sport sports seats in three colour choices, including the Magma red trim pictured.

BMW Australia has confirmed that the X2 M35i will be launched locally in the first half of 2019, with pricing and specifications to be announced before then.

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