BMW iX2 xDrive30 M Sport is a hoot to drive – Test Drive

Like its main rival from Stuttgart, BMW has been actively expanding its range of electric vehicles in Malaysia.

After launching models such as the i5, i7, and iX1, to name a few, BMW Malaysia introduced the latest addition to the BMW i series, the iX2 back in May this year. It is offered in the single xDrive30 M Sport variant at a price of RM 297,000.

So what exactly is the iX2?

Just as the iX1 is the electric version of the X1, the iX2 is essentially an electrically driven X2. The difference between the iX1 and iX2 lies mostly in the shape and design, the latter looking almost eccentric thanks to a more angular design approach and a coupe-style roof.

Not only that, it also gains the Iconic Glow illuminated grille, larger wheels (20 vs 19 inches), and the M High-Gloss Shadowline package with extended content that brings black accents to the radiator grille, tailgate logo, and side mirrors.

However, under the stylish skin, the iX2 xDrive30 shares the same dual-motor electric powertrain as the iX1 xDrive30, which generates a total output of 313 PS (with boost) and 494 Nm.

On paper, the difference in performance between the two are not exactly night and day. The iX2 is capable of sprinting from 0 to 100 km/h in 5.6 seconds, while the iX1 does it in 5.7 seconds.

Despite using the same 66.5 kWh battery, the iX2 offers a longer WLTP driving range of 449 km compared to 438 km by the iX1. 11 km may not sound much, but it can make a big difference, especially when the range anxiety kicks in as the battery runs low.

So, for a price difference of almost RM12,000, you get a more stylish EV with a longer driving range. Is it worth it to spend the extra buck on the iX2?

For this writer, it heavily depends on the individual taste. Those who are more conventional and not exactly risk-takers will choose the iX1, while those who like to be distinct and stand out more will be drawn towards the iX2.

Folks who pick the iX2 will not only appreciate its voguish exterior but also take a fancy to its its modern and sophisticated cabin. Almost every touchable surface feels luxurious and premium, as they should.

The first thing that catches attention is the large curved display that actually houses two displays, a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster and a 10.7-inch touchscreen for the infotainment system.

The BMW Operating System 9 provides bright, easy-to-read graphics and an intuitive, user-friendly interface, but there are some functions that need some ‘digging’ to be accessed. The infotainment system is commendable, but this writer personally prefers the MBUX.

In terms of comfort and practicality, the cabin of the so-called Sport Activity Coupe is comfortable enough for four passengers. The front seats are highly adjustable and have thigh support, while the rear seats are not too upright and offer ample head and legroom.

There is space for a fifth passenger, but they might not feel comfortable especially on long journeys because the middle seat is rather small.

To say the iX2 is spacious might be a little far-fetched but there is plenty of storage space in the cabin. Each door has a sizeable storage area and cup holder, while under the centre console, there is another decent-sized space for storing items like a wallet.

There is also a storage space located under the armrest, but it is only meant for small, flat objects like access cards.

In addition to USB Type C charging ports, passengers can charge their smartphone on the wireless charging tray that has a bar to hold the phone in place. That’s clever.

At the back, the iX2 offers a larger boot (525 litres) compared to the iX1, but due to its sloping roofline, fitting tall items can be a bit challenging.

But if you’re thinking of weekend trips with the family, the boot has enough space and can easily accommodate at least three or four luggages. The car is also suitable for your shopping trips to Ikea as the rear seats can be folded flat in a 40:20:40 configuration.

The driving character shown by the iX2 is as expected from a premium EV – it’s fast, comfortable on smooth roads, and quiet.

Perhaps it’s not all that silent seeing hard acceleration is accompanied by BMW’s IconicSound synthesised sound effect developed in collaboration with renowned composer Hans Zimmer. However, in terms of NVH, it is all good in the iX2.

Driving an EV can be a bit boring after a while so to make things more interesting, BMW has included a boost pedal that provides an additional push for 10 seconds. Though honestly, the output provided by the two-motor setup is good enough for most daily driving situations.

In addition, the iX2 can help reduce driver fatigue through the standard Driving Assistant Plus system, which includes features such as Lane Control Assistant, Automatic Speed Limit Assist, Autonomous Emergency Braking, and more.

During the four days of driving, this writer recorded an energy consumption level of around 15 to 16 kWh per 100 km with a normal driving style, involving 70% city driving and 30% highway driving.

Needless to say, achieving the claimed driving range is no easy feat, but with the iX2, you can at least extend the range by using the regenerative braking system that offers four modes, including Adaptive.

Navigating through winding roads is not a problem for this car because its suspension system is more on the firm side of things, meaning it excels in eliminating body roll. But sometimes you do feel that the weight of the battery is taking a toll on it its handling.

Despite its firmness, the suspension system shows it can be quite comfortable for highway driving. However, it is not too keen to be driven on bumpy and uneven roads in urban areas. Hitting a pothole will send a jolt to the entire car.

In the city, the iX2 is overall easy to drive. That being said, you have to be mindful when reversing as the rear window is quite small due to to the sloping roofline. Thankfully, the car comes with a 360-degree camera.

If that’s not enough, you can also make use of the Reversing Assistant and Lateral Parking Aid for easier parking maneuvers.

Conclusion

Does the iX2 xDrive30 M Sport make sense in the current market? Honestly, at a price of nearly RM300,000, you could actually get another EV that offers high power and a longer range, like the Volvo C40.

However, the iX2 has its own unique appeal. Looks are subjective but the iX2 does have a stronger visual impact than its closest competitors, and it handles really well on the road – probably much better than the Swedish EV or the Mercedes-Benz EQA. And that’s good enough for this writer.

BMW iX2 xDrive30 M Sport Specifications

Price: RM297,000
Power: 313 PS (dengan boost)
Torque: 494 Nm
Battery: 66.5kWj
Range: 449 km (WLTP)