BMW’s X2 goes hybrid

BMW has revealed a plug-in hybrid version of its X2 mini-SUV which it claims will be capable of covering 35 miles on electric power alone. This, and an official emissions figure of 43 g/km, mean it will qualify for a 10% benefit-in-kind rating for company car drivers, saving a fortune in tax liabilities when compared to a petrol or diesel.

Low-slung SUV can cover 35 miles on electric power alone, if you are careful.

The new X2 xDrive 25e will go on sale in July and shares its engine and electric hardware with the MINI Countryman PHEV and the BMW X1. A three-cylinder, 1.5-litre petrol engine delivers power to the front wheels while an electric motor feeds the rear wheels. The total output is 218bhp – more than the conventional 2-litre petrol version of the X2.

Officially called the BMW X2 xDrive 25e, the new model's name would make a good password

The 10kWh battery is mounted under the rear seats and boot floor and the new charging port is on the passenger-side front wing. The car can be recharged using a home wallbox in 3.2 hours. 

The flap location is perfect for roadside chargers in the UK

Standard equipment including 17-inch alloy wheels, LED headlamps, two-zone climate control, auxiliary air conditioning which can be controlled by an app, and hybrid-specific readouts on the display. There is no word on pricing yet but expect a hike of about £3,000 over a petrol 4x4 version of the X2.

Interior is identical to other X2s, except for hybrid data on the displays.