BMW’s most powerful 4-cylinder engine.
The new range-topper of the BMW X2 lineup has finally arrived, after many spy shots and rumors. The M35i is a front-wheel drive platform. However, it will only come with the xDrive configuration. Bavarian manufacturer M Performance has two firsts with the flagship X2, which not only features the M Performance four-cylinder engine but also boasts the most powerful four-cylinder unit BMW has ever used in a production car.
When you think about it, the BMW X2 M35i’s new M Performance model also has an M Sport differential in its front axle. This reduces traction losses while driving the crossover in a lively way.
The turbocharged 2.0-liter gasoline engine is fitted with a revised cooling system to produce 302 horsepower (225kW) and a peak torque figure of 450 Newton-meters (332 pounds-feet). With the help of an eight-speed Steptronic transmission with launch control, the output is channeled to both wheels. This hardware setup allows the X2M35i to accelerate to 62 mph (100 km/h) in just 4.9 seconds.
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The high-end crossover received a larger engine and a number of upgrades to earn the M Performance badge. The X2 has two modes of adaptive suspension, an M Sport braking system that features 18-inch front discs and 17-inch rear discs made of steel, and tweaked steering that makes it feel agile and nimble in corners.
The M35i comes standard with the M Sport Package, which includes a Cerium Grey paint job and dual tips for its sports exhaust. BMW can install optional 20-inch wheels with a two-tone finish if you feel that the standard 19-inch wheels are too small. As standard, the fog lights and full LED headlights are included.
Similar to the exterior, the X2 M35i’s cabin can be ordered with optional M sport seats. These provide greater lateral support for the front seat. They can be ordered in any of three designs and come with matching M seatsbelts to create a cohesive look. You can also get a leather-wrapped M Sport steering column with shift paddles.
BMW claims it will begin production of the X2 M35i in October, but assembly of Euro-spec cars will not start until March next year.