BMW X2 008 80j9
Shane O'Donoghue6 Dec 2016
NEWS

BMW plotting Evoque Convertible killer

New BMW X2 SUV could spawn open-topped rival to the Range Rover Evoque Convertible

A BMW insider this week told motoring.com.au that we shouldn't rule out the possibility of an open-topped version of the new BMW X2, to take on the mould-breaking Range Rover Evoque in the new 'premium compact SUV convertible' segment.

It's known that BMW's next X2, sitting on the same platform as the BMW X1, will look very similar to the Concept X2 displayed at the Paris motor show earlier this year (pictured).

Spy shots of the production version reveal that the unusual grille design and BMW logo in the D-pillar have made it to production, as has a roofline that is distinctly lower than that of the X1 it's based on, with a sporty upsweep of the side glass.

It's set to be revealed to the public at the end of 2017, with sales in Australia starting in 2018.

Our contact at BMW confirmed that future model planning colleagues were keeping an eye on demand for the Range Rover Evoque Convertible before deciding whether to produce an X2 Convertible.

If it receives the green light for production, the X2 Convertible would be the first ever open-topped BMW X model and likely to be offered with a reduced range of powertrains -- mostly petrol -- to suit its target market: females in an urban environment.

Given BMW has already committed to rolling out a new X3 in 2017, along with replacements for the X4 and X5, and the all-new X7 in 2018-2019, the likelihood of an X2 Convertible going into production before 2020 are slim.

However, the timing would tie in well with the introduction of an M Performance version of the new BMW X2, which is expected to be badged as the X2 M25i and powered by a turbocharged 2.0-litre petrol engine.

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Written byShane O'Donoghue
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