The 2023 BMW X2 interior comes only in black, though it features Giallo Oro stitching and piping on the dashboard, center console, floor mats, and leather M Sport bucket seats.
The dashboard has a Golden Mica graphic laser-engraved into the matte trim piece that echoes the exterior stickers, and the side sills say “Edition” in Galvanic Gold with a matching border.
BMW splits the difference between subcompact crossover and hot hatch with the X2, which carries over into 2023 with slight updates. New for this year is the X2 Edition GoldPlay that adds eye-popping gold accents among other changes to the crossover.
The 2023 BMW X2 battles it out in the hot luxury subcompact crossover segment with the Audi Q3, Jaguar E-Pace, Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class, and Volvo XC40.
BMW has introduced the GoldPlay appearance package on sDrive28i and xDrive28i models of the X2 for 2023. This special-edition trim comes with the M Sport package, which includes a sport-tuned suspension with a lower ride height as well as a retuned steering system, but the big difference is in the exterior styling.
GoldPlay models are distinguished from other X2s with a more aggressive front-end design and gold exterior trim accents. The X2 GoldPlay is available with your choice of San Remo Green, Alpine White, Black Sapphire, Storm Bay, or Skyscraper Grey paint.
ENGINE AND IMPLEMENTATION
The 2023 BMW X2 shares its standard powertrain with the X1. It consists of a 228-hp turbocharged four-cylinder, an eight-speed automatic transmission, and front-wheel drive. BMW calls this model the sDrive28i. If you want an all-wheel-drive, you’ll need to shell out $2000 more for the xDrive28i.
The base engine is a sweetheart: eager to rev, silky smooth, and plenty gutsy. At our test track, the X2 xDrive28i snapped off a decent 6.4-second run to 60 mph—0.1 second slower than the X1 xDrive28i and Volvo XC40 T5.
Quicker still is the Mercedes-Benz GLA250, which managed to hit the mark in 5.8 seconds. If that’s still too slow for you, the M35i may be the ticket. BMW tuned this high-performance X2’s engine to pump out 302 horsepower. That’s good for a 4.6-second dash to 60.
The 2023 BMW X2 has a harsh ride, especially with the sports suspension. When going over rough stretches of road, occupants will feel every imperfection in their seats. The trade-off is a high level of agility. The X2 is a joy to pitch into fast corners and rewards the driver with its predictable nature.
ENERGY AND REAL-WORLD MPG
The 2023 BMW X2 doesn’t boast the highest fuel-economy ratings in its segment, but it’s still plenty efficient. Front-drive models should see up to 32 mpg on the highway, and all-wheel-drive X2s, up to 31 mpg.
In our testing, though, the X2 outdid itself, with a 36-mpg result over our 200-mile highway fuel-economy route. We managed only 29 mpg in the all-wheel-drive X1 and the XC40 T5. For more information about the 2023 BMW X2’s fuel economy, visit the EPA’s website.
INTERIOR, CONVENIENCE, AND BOOTH
While the 2023 BMW X2‘s interior design isn’t as expressive as its exterior, the cabin is nicely outfitted and well built. The driving position is great, and all the X2’s controls are within reach of the driver.
The rear-seat headroom is tight, but passenger space should be acceptable for most people. BMW offers both faux and genuine leather in several colors.
Because of its shapelier backside, the X2 isn’t as practical as the squared-off X1, but it’s in line with raked-roofed rivals. We fit five carry-on suitcases behind the rear seat and 15 with the bench folded; the X1 managed seven and 19, respectively.
IN-VEHICLE INFOTAINMENT AND INTERCONNECTIONS
An 8.8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with navigation is standard and runs BMW’s intuitive iDrive software. BMW also provides a controller knob on the center console, if you’re touchscreen averse. The Premium package adds a head-up display.
Apple CarPlay capability is standard, but Android Auto is not offered. The included seven-speaker audio system will be good enough for casual listeners, but audiophiles can spec a Harman/Kardon premium sound system for more coins.
PROTECTION AND DRIVER-ASSISTANCE ASPECTS
A basic set of driver-assistance features, including automated emergency braking, comes standard, and BMW offers additional tech for a price.
For more information about the 2023 BMW X2’s crash-test results, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites.
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