Sport utility vehicle sales are booming and most carmakers are cashing in on the craze – BMW is no exception. In fact, the German manufacturer is going all out expanding their lineup to cover everything from the small X1 sports activity vehicle, to the upcoming X7 large seven-seater.

The next installment in the German brand’s SUV blitz is the X2 – a more daring and unorthodox addition along the lines of the larger X4 and X6. So let’s take an illustrated look of what punters can expect.

Focused Design:

First thing that comes to mind when seeing the new X2 is its closest direct competitor – Mercedes-Benz’s GLA; sure it’s pure BMW at the front and rear, yet the side profile and stance do have a whiff of MB’s jacked-up hatch.

Similarities aside, frontal styling follows that of recent BMW’s like the X1 and X4; cue a dominant twin-kidney grille, upper bumper-mounted fog lamps and large lower intakes. What makes the X2 unique, is a wide stance, body-dividing swage line, short overhangs and upright c-pillar, with the latter exuding more of a VW Golf/Fiat 500x vibe than the traditional Hofmeister kink found on other BMWs.

Driver Orientated Cockpit:

Interior styling will follow in the footsteps of the latest X1; so cue a driver-focused instrument panel, center console and multi-layered surfacing. These attributes, combined with hi-grade materials and contrasting detailing should make it a welcoming place for occupants.

Talking of passengers; it’ll seat up to five and offer reasonable boot space considering its sporting pretenses. Expect goodies such as BMW’s ConnectedDrive infotainment system and available heads-up display, aided by an iDrive controller and large monitor for ease of access to BMW apps, remote services and driver assistance settings.

What Will Propel It:

The X2 will mirror the X1’s powertrains, including a potent 2.0-liter turbo four putting power to the ground via an 8-speed automatic and all-wheel drive for the North American market.

Being based on BMW’s UKL platform, European markets will be offered front-wheel drive and turbocharged 3-cylinder variants for the fuel economy conscious. Diesel versions will also be available. Don’t be surprised if a M Performance model makes its appearance with a ‘massaged’ 2.0-liter turbo four pushing 300 or more horses to all-four wheels.

Compact CUV Opponents:

Could competition come directly from BMW’s showroom floor? The X1, being its more civilized, practical and roomier sibling, may just be its biggest challenge. Other rivals like Mercedes-Benz’s GLA, Audi Q3, Range Rover Evoque and Mini Countryman will also be out for the X2’s blood.

Expect a reveal later this year with sales to likely beginning in 2017.

Share your thoughts on BMW’s GLA rival in the discussion area below.

By Josh Byrnes

Photo Renderings Copyright Carscoops / Josh Byrnes

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