Sporty coupe-like SUVs have gone from being niche vehicles to being far more readily available. Automakers, like BMW, now offer coupe versions of their subcompact SUVs. Two of BMW’s smallest SUVs include the X1 and X2. While BMW’s naming structure would leave you to believe that the X2 is larger than the X1, that’s not the case. The X2 is a more stylish version of the X1.
While the SUVs look different, especially with the X1’s recent full redesign, the X2 and the previous-gen X1 shared a lot of features and components. That could make choosing between the two SUVs difficult if you find yourself at a BMW dealership.
In this comparison, we’ll look at how the two SUVs compare to one another when it comes to pricing, size, performance, and interior space. At the end, we’ll name the better option for most consumers.
BMW X1 vs. X2 Price
With BMW introducing a fully redesigned version of the X1 for the 2023 model year, the SUV is more expensive than its stylish counterpart. Pricing for the X1 starts at $39,595 with destination. The X2 is slightly more affordable with a starting price tag of $37,595. While choosing the X2 means going with an older SUV, you can save $2,000 with the more stylish SUV.
BMW doesn’t have a current lease offer in place for the X2. The last one we saw was for $529 per month for 36 months with $5,029 due at signing. The X1 is available with a lease deal for $569 per month for 36 months $4,149 due at signing. When the lease deal for the X2 was in place, it was more affordable than the X1’s lease deal.
Both the X1 and X2 are more expensive than most of their subcompact rivals.
BMW X1 vs. X2 Dimensions
With the new X1 growing in size, it’s slightly larger than the X2. The X1 is five inches longer, nearly one inch wider, and four inches taller than the X2. On the road, the X2 will be slightly easier to drive and park than the X1.
Beyond size, another major factor that separates the X1 and X2 is the designs. The X2 has a sweeping roofline that leads into a rakish rear end, while the X1 has a more traditional look. One SUV isn’t exactly better than the other, as one which looks better is a personal thing.
BMW X1 vs. X2 Interior
The X1’s growth spurt for 2023 and its more traditional design result in a roomier interior than the X2. The X1 has more front headroom, front and rear legroom, and front and rear shoulder room. For passengers, the X1 will be the more comfortable SUV for long drives.
Because of the X2’s heavily raked roofline, the SUV loses some cargo capacity compared to the X1. The X1 offers up to 25.7 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats and 57.2 cubic feet of total cargo space. The X2 has 21.6 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats in place and a total of 50.1 cubic feet of cargo space.
BMW X1 vs. X2 Specs
For 2023, the X1 arrives with a more powerful standard engine. The turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder makes 241 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque in the X1. The X1 utilizes a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic for quick shifts.
The X2 continues to come with a turbo 2.0-liter four-cylinder that produces 228 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque. The engine is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission.
With a power benefit, we expect the X1 to deliver improved acceleration over the X2. Additionally, the X1 comes with standard all-wheel drive (AWD), while the X2 has standard front-wheel drive and available AWD.
Which Is Better: BMW X1 or X2?
For consumers that are fine with having an SUV with a more traditional body style, the BMW X1 shines over the X2. The fully redesigned model arrives with more interior space, a more powerful engine, and upgraded tech. While it costs more than the X2, it’s the more well-rounded option.
With that being said, the X2 has a sharper exterior design at a more affordable price. We don’t expect that to be the case when BMW redesigns the X2. We recommend researching both models and choosing the SUV that best fits your specific needs and budget.