BMW X2 M35i announced for 2019

BMW has revealed a new range-topping X2 variant, the M35i, with a performance drivetrain and M Sport visuals.

The M35i will be powered by a 2.0-litre turbocharged engine, producing 225kW and 450Nm of torque. BMW says the four-cylinder is the first M Performance engine of its kind. The new unit channels power to all four wheels via an eight-speed ‘Tiptronic’ automatic transmission.

BMW claims the X2 M35i will accelerate from 0-100km/h in just 4.9 seconds.

The new 2.0-litre engine will put down 225kW and 450Nm of torque.

The M35i will also debut a new M Sport differential on the front axle. Other performance-oriented features include lower, stiffer, M Sport suspension, an improved performance braking system, tweaked steering set-up and a re-designed rear axle. There is also a twin-piped M Sport exhaust system and, optionally, the suspension can be made adaptive with two modes available.

On the design front, the M35i receives a bodywork package similar to the current M Sport package for the X2 range, finished in ‘Cerium Grey’. It also receives 19-inch alloy wheels or optional 20-inch wheels with grey highlights, and a rear spoiler unique to the M35i.

The M35i receives an M Sport bodywork package finished with 'Cerium Grey' highlights.

Inside, the M35i receives an M Sport leather steering wheel with paddle-shifters, M Sport highlights and can be optioned to include M Sport seats in several designs.

Standard safety equipment is quoted to include ‘Traffic Jam Assist’ but should match the sDrive20i that will sit below it with front parking sensors, reversing camera, lane departure warning and forward collision alert.

Optional luxuries will include a head-up display, wireless Apple CarPlay and BMW ‘ConnectedDrive’ features.

The interior comes with some bespoke 'M35i' touches and can be optioned to include sports seats in several designs.

Full pricing and spec for the 2019 BMW X2 M35i will be released closer to its early 2019 launch window.

It’s safe to assume it will come at a hefty margin above the most expensive current variant, the $59,990 X2 sDrive 20d M Sport, but less than the larger $99,990 X3 M40i.

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