BMW X2 first drive finds it is more fuel efficient and better to drive than traditional SUVs

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BMW seems intent on filling every possible gap in its model line-up and it now has a full arsenal of SUVs, ranging from the X1 to the X6.

The company says this new X2 model is aimed at a younger audience and, as such, is being pitched against premium small SUVs like the Volvo XC40 and Jaguar E-Pace.

To call the X2 an SUV is a bit of a stretch. It's more like big hatchback. Perhaps that why BMW refers to it as a 'Sports Activity Coup?'.

It certainly looks sporty in M Sport trim, with large alloy wheels, dual exhaust tailpipes and an aggressive body kit. A 470-litre boot should satisfy the activity element too, but the coup? part is a bit more difficult to get your head around.

The X2 has the styling of an SUV ? and the practicality ? but the ride-height of a hatchback, so you don't get the high-riding driving position which many buyers are keen on. This must be the coup? element.

Underneath, it uses the same platform as the 2 Series Active Tourer and the X1, which isn't the best start for a sportier vehicle, but BMW has stiffened it up and lowered the centre of gravity to improve driveability.

The entry-level X2 is the most frugal and represents the best value for fleet drivers. It's badged sDrive18d and costs ?29,995. It uses a 2.0-litre diesel engine that develops 150PS, emits 119g/km of CO2 and has front-wheel drive.

BMW expects the 190PS xDrive20d to be the most popular model, however. It costs from ?34,985 and has four-wheel drive. CO2 emissions are rated at 124g/km.

There is also a 2.0-litre 192PS petrol, which is only available with front-wheel-drive.

Four trims are available: SE, Sport, M Sport and M Sport X. Base models look less enticing with small wheels and lots of plastic cladding on the exterior.

All X2s come with Bluetooth, digital radio, sat-nav and rear parking sensors, so they should suit basic fleet requirements.

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