Currently reading: New BMW X2 M35i revealed: the first of the four-pot M cars
BMW's smallest SUV-coupe gains hot M-tuned variant, powered by a 302bhp four-cylinder turbo petrol engine

BMW has revealed the new flagship for the X2 range: the X2 M35i. The performance-oriented SUV-coupe is due to go on sale in Europe in March next year.

BMW claims that the X2 M35i is powered the first ever M Performance four-cylinder engine - seemingly ignoring the original E30 M3 of the 1980s. The new unit is based on the 2.0-litre TwinPower Turbo engine fitted to several current BMWs, tuned to produce 302bhp and 332lb ft of torque. It replaces the 3.0-litre straight six found in the current M140i hatch. 

That gives the X2 the ability to accelerate from 0-62mph in 4.9sec and reach a limited top speed of 155mph. That’s down on rivals such as the Mercedes-AMG GLA 45, but the BMW isn’t a full-blown M model in the vein of the M2 and M3

Power is put through BMW’s xDrive intelligent four-wheel drive system and an eight-speed automatic gearbox, with launch control as standard. Official fuel economy is 34.8mpg combined, and it emits up to 191g/km of CO2. 

Further upgrades over the regular X2 include a new, louder exhaust system, a new suspension tune with adaptive dampers as an option, an M Sport Differential for the front axle and upgraded brakes. The steering has also been retuned for a more direct feel, BMW claims. 

Styling upgrades are based on the current car’s optional M Sport Package and include 19in or 20in alloy wheels, a rear spoiler and additional cooling intakes. Inside, M Sport seats are added with thee trim options, alongside numerous M Sport badges and trims.  

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johnspan 19 October 2015

Opinion

I currently drive a (latest) 3-series, I had the eprevious model and also a previous C180... I am sorry but some friends here just do not know what they are talking about... The latest 3 is better qulaity than previous one but as a matter of principle BMWs are never inside as 'rich' as a mercedes. they are designed in a more 'plain' way and this is a matter of attitude, not cheapness... having said that, I would agree that latest C-series is much 'richer' but where I live comes also at a higher price - at least 10% at same specs although with a stronger engine (like-for-like). And when it comes to ride, BMWs are still sportier and with a very decent ride quality - it is a litle firmier but simply because all BMWs run on RUN FLAT tires. the improvement in tide quality compared with previous 3-series is remarkable considering this aspect. In any case though, the competition is improving, margins are becoming more unclear (eg Volco is offering great alternatives despite the fact that they have some disadvantages like eg. space) and BMW should start building more 'rich' interiors - especially the seats are well behind the competition !
johnspan 19 October 2015

Opinion

I currently drive a (latest) 3-series, I had the eprevious model and also a previous C180... I am sorry but some friends here just do not know what they are talking about... The latest 3 is better qulaity than previous one but as a matter of principle BMWs are never inside as 'rich' as a mercedes. they are designed in a more 'plain' way and this is a matter of attitude, not cheapness... having said that, I would agree that latest C-series is much 'richer' but where I live comes also at a higher price - at least 10% at same specs although with a stronger engine (like-for-like). And when it comes to ride, BMWs are still sportier and with a very decent ride quality - it is a litle firmier but simply because all BMWs run on RUN FLAT tires. the improvement in tide quality compared with previous 3-series is remarkable considering this aspect. In any case though, the competition is improving, margins are becoming more unclear (eg Volco is offering great alternatives despite the fact that they have some disadvantages like eg. space) and BMW should start building more 'rich' interiors - especially the seats are well behind the competition !
catnip 12 June 2015

I know this is an Autocar

I know this is an Autocar image, but it really is so dreary. Beauty is in the eye of the beholder but I think BMWs current (and soon to be released)range is seriously lacking in any sort of style or interest. I even preferred the pre-facelift 1-Series as it was at least quirky looking. The i3 is the only one that has any sort of appeal for me.