BMW iX2 xDrive30 Sales Start In Malaysia For RM297K
Based on the 2nd generation BMW X2, the iX2 is a mid-sized Crossover that is larger than the iX1 yet a little smaller than the iX3. So, it can get confusing for BMW crossover buyers (here in Malaysia and also other countries) when they arrive at a BMW showroom as the larger iX3 is priced at just RM299,800 (which is just RM2k more expensive) and has 461km of driving range (which is 12km more over the iX2).
Now, to get you even more confused, the smaller iX1 is priced at RM285,900 (which is just 12k less).
So, you have three electric compact SUV’s priced very close to each other in one showroom and we would think most buyers will end up with the larger iX3. Well, we are wrong. It seems that there is an almost even sales number for each model and BMW crossover buyers are a very ‘picky’ consumer.
So, lets look closer at the iX2 we are test driving here. The BMW iX2 xDrive30 is an all-wheel drive electric “SAV” with a total system output of 313hp and 494Nm of torque from two electric motors. 0-100km/h takes just 5.6 seconds (which is the same acceleration time as the latest Mini Countryman EV) and it has an electronically limited top speed of 180km/h.
Its 66.5 kWh battery is rated for 449km of driving range on the WLTP cycle and we suggest a common sense driving range of 400km is easily achieved by the average person.
Battery charging needs are as follows. AC charging is limited to 11 kW, requiring 6.5 hours to fully recharge the battery from 0 percent and the DC Fast Charging is rated at 130 kW, which gets the battery from 10 percent to 80 percent in under half an hour.
There are some ‘M’ accessories added like the Adaptive ‘M’ Suspension, ‘M’ Sport Steering, ‘M’ Sport Brakes and Sport My Mode.
Move inside this crossover and it’s a typical BMW cabin with good material combination and well designed driver space.
The iX2 gets a 10.7″ BMW Curved Display running BMW Operating System 9. The user interface is all-new with an easy to learn menu with quick access to frequently used functions and configurable live widgets.
There’s also a 10.25″ digital instrument cluster and a full-colour heads-up display. Other features include a ventilated wireless smartphone charging tray, a powered tailgate, a premium Harman Kardon sound system and ‘M’ multifunction leather steering wheel. The interior is finished with aluminium hexacube pale ‘M’ interior trim pieces and fine grain Veganza faux leather with contrast stitching.
Ignite the ‘powertrain’ and it seems a computer has been switched on as that is the powertrain sound that reaches our ears. We are already used to this ignition ‘computer generated sound’ after driving dozens of electric cars.
Click the gear-level into drive and this crossover glides along with only the 21-inch wide rubbers sending a mild signal to the cabin. Yes, with the windows down you just hear the wide tyres crunching the fallen driveway leaves as you make your way.
On the open road, this electric BMW does not disappoint as the power delivery is instant and without any hesitation. The size of the car is no issue as its hustles along faster than you brain can compute. You need a few days to get acquainted with the mid-power delivery and its steadfast handling.
Rear passenger comfort is great for 2 adults and just nice if there are 3 adults. Yes, it is larger car over its outgoing petrol powered sibling but the cabin seems about the same size.
So, will we buy it at RM297,000? Well, it’s a great package with handsome looks, but we will wait a little bit longer for a lighter battery pack with a possible 800 kilometers driving distance to part with our money.
BMW iX2 xDrive30 Specifications
Motor: 230kW all-wheel drive
Battery Capacity: 64.8kWh
Range: 449km
Max power: 308hp or 230kW
Max torque: 494Nm
Top Speed: 180km/h
0-100 km/h: 5.6 seconds
Selling Price: RM297,000
