What's the difference?
Following its global launch in February this year, the second-generation 'U10' 2024 BMW X2 and iX2 have landed in Australia.
The coupe SUV range comprises four variants with turbo-petrol and pure electric models sitting alongside each other in showrooms with precious few visual differences.
That'll either be a good or bad thing, depending on how much you want to parade your choice to go for current or combustion.
More clear cut is the X2's new – and more sensible – position in BMW's SUV line-up. Rather than a quirky curio that's smaller and less practical than the X1, the 20cm longer gen-two X2 finally makes sense in BMW's X line-up.
To see if the driving experience and build quality live up the shiny new exterior, we've been invited to Tasmania to sample the new car's attributes on typically testing (and picturesque) roads.
If you’ve clicked on this thinking, “What’s a Farizon?” you're probably not alone.
Farizon is yet another sub-brand of Chinese giant Geely which owns brands like Volvo, Polestar, Lotus, Smart and Zeekr, among others.
This new brand is an electric commercial vehicle specialist that arrived in Australia earlier this year thanks to Saudi Arabia-based distributor, Jameel Motors. Sales are currently only offered in Queensland through Farizon’s website, though a dealer network is being developed with a priority of the eastern seaboard.
The Farizon SuperVan is the company’s first offering in Australia, alongside an electric light truck called the H9E. This electric mid-size van is a rival to the likes of the LDV eDeliver 7, Peugeot E-Expert and Volkswagen ID. Buzz, as well as the forthcoming Ford E-Transit Custom.
How does it stack up? Read along to find out.
The second-generation BMW X2 is leagues better than the car it replaces. It now sits nicely in BMW's line-up and offers genuinely tempting electric variants.
This isn't an affordable car by any means but next to rivals from Mercedes-Benz and Volvo, the well-equipped iX2 xDrive30 feels a complete package.
Similarly, the entry-level xDrive20i petrol is a very compelling choice with a comfortable ride and sporty drive.
We'd skip the contrived M35i unless your heart is set on going quickly in a straight line. With the thinking cap on, it's also hard to make a case for the X2 over the objectively better (and more affordable) X1. Then there's the more spacious, powerful, efficient and cheaper Tesla Model Y.
That's not really the point of this car, though. It'll never sell in as many numbers as the X1. Those who love its fastback styling will be pleasantly surprised by the new X2. It does what it says on the tin, marrying the BMW badge with a sporty drive and daring style.
Note: CarsGuide attended this event as a guest of the manufacturer, with travel, accommodation and meals provided.
You’d think Farizon would be onto a winner given it has created a van with cool looks and the packaging benefits that come with a dedicated EV architecture. However, the SuperVan left a sour taste in my mouth.
There are good bones here, but Farizon has a long way to go with fixing the electric motor whine and safety systems.
It’s great the company is aware of the SuperVan’s shortcomings and is currently working on software updates, but it begs the question, why wasn’t it good in the first place?