2024 BMW X2 M35i SUVOTY Review: It’s Back, It’s Good—But Is It Great?

SUVs are designed as multipurpose vehicles, but it’s rare when one single machine can fill several roles and perform all of them exceptionally well. Consumers nonetheless still tend to look for that “do-it-all” solution, and the 2024 BMW X2 M35i is the latest in a long line of attempts to be that “everything” SUV. It’s attractive, sporty, luxurious, comfortable, and practical, but—spoiler alert—it doesn’t do all those things perfectly. It does get respectfully close.

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Now in its second generation, the 2024 BMW X2 has a whole new look, more power, and more features than its predecessor. The xDrive28i trim now makes 241 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque, up from 228 hp and 258 lb-ft in the previous generation. The X2 M35i model makes 312 hp and 295 lb-ft from its 2.0-liter turbo-four, 11 more horsepower than before but 36 lb-ft less torque. All X2s also feature all-wheel drive and a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission.

The all new sportback design is the first thing you notice, but the new look was hit and miss with our judges. “I’m not really a fan of what BMW did with the styling here,” features editor Scott Evans said. “The old X2 was quirky, interesting, and stylish. This one is ‘honey, I shrunk the X6.’” Senior features editor Jonny Lieberman swung the other way: “It’s like a funkier X4. I like it.”

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On the other hand, most judges were quite pleased with the X2’s interior styling and use of materials even though BMW effectively copied and pasted the same interior from its other model lines into the X2. It looks good, but it doesn’t do much to make the new X2 feel like a unique experience. Basically, if you’ve seen one interior from BMW’s present lineup, you’ve seen them all.

Despite not being a full-fledged M car, the X2 M35i provides a sporty driving experience with sharp and responsive steering. It wants to be driven with spirit, something enthusiasts will appreciate. What we don’t appreciate is the hesitation from the dual-clutch transmission at low speeds and the clunky stop/start function. We’re cool with the X2 wanting to be sporty, but it’s more important for it to remain good at daily-driving duties. This do-it-all SUV could use some extra polishing in that area.

As for pricing, the 2024 BMW X2 M35i sits at $61,625 as tested. It’s worth noting you can get a similarly equipped X1 M35i with the same power for nearly $2,000 less. Of course, you can shave back some of the X2’s options and save even more money, with the base price coming in at $53,025. Overall, the 2024 BMW X2 is a great sporty, luxury SUV, but it doesn't represent the best bang for your buck.

This review was conducted as part of our 2025 SUV of the Year (SUVOTY) testing, where each vehicle is evaluated on our six key criteria: efficiency, design, safety, engineering excellence, value, and performance of intended function. Eligible vehicles must be all-new or significantly revised.