The all-new BMW X2 made its debut just a few days ago, yet the company is already employing it for its participation in the Rebelle Rally. This otherwise road-focused coupe-crossover has undergone a series of modifications to better prepare it for its off-road rally car role.
BMW opted for the performance-orientated M35i model as the foundation for the rally car, taking advantage of the turbocharged 2.0-liter engine that produces 312 hp (316 PS / 233 kW) and 295 lb-ft (400 Nm) of torque. The most notable modification involves adding Rotiform ZMO-M wheels equipped with grippy Falken Wildpeak All-Terrain tires, along with the installation of a spare tire carrier in the trunk.
Custom skid plates and underbody protection make the X2 more resilient to rocks, with a Thule Caprock roof rack providing space for mounting extra equipment and additional LED lights by Morimoto. The off-road recovery gear is sourced by Smittybilt, while the external odometer by TerraTrip. To complete the rally car aesthetics, a distinctive livery and tow straps from BMW M Performance Parts have been added.
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The BMW X2 M35i will participate in the X-Cross Class of the Rebelle Rally, featuring an experienced crew comprising driver Rebecca Donaghe and navigator Sedona Blinson. Notably, this marks BMW’s debut in the event, as the company seeks to demonstrate the X2’s durability and endurance on challenging terrain, even though its typical customer base may seldom venture off-road.
The Rebelle Rally stands as the longest off-road rally competition in the United States. Spanning 8 days, this event encompasses a grueling journey of more than 1,300 miles through the challenging and unforgiving desert terrains of California and Nevada. Commencing on October 12 at the Mammoth Mountain Resort in California, the rally is set to conclude on October 21 near the Mexican border at the Imperial Dunes.
The 2024 BMW X2 is expected to arrive in US dealers in the first quarter of 2024. The US-spec model will be available in xDrive 28i and M35i trims starting from $42,000 and $51,400 respectively. Meanwhile, the European lineup of the BMW X2 comprises the sDrive20i, xDrive18d, and M35i xDrive variants.
