BMW X2 M35i Battles the M240i: Two M Badges, Two Philosophies
- Marc Gonzalez
- Sep 15, 2025
- 5 min read
German automakers fiercely compete for dominance in every luxury segment. BMW, in particular, has excelled with the models we're examining today: the X2 M35i and the M240i Coupe. But are they truly worthy of the illustrious M badge? How does a coupe compare to an SUV? We drove both to find out. The X2 M35i xDrive, with an MSRP of $71,800, was manufactured in Regensburg, Germany, while the M240i xDrive Coupe, with an MSRP of $75,350, came from San Luis Potosí, Mexico.
On paper, a sleek coupe and a compact SUV seem like an odd comparison. But once you consider their shared M heritage, four seats, similar pricing, and nearly identical footprints, the matchup makes perfect sense. This is a clash of philosophies: classic sports car versus modern performance SUV. The BMW M240i represents the classic formula. It's low, wide, and planted to the road. Its design is refreshingly clean, avoiding the oversized grilles of other new BMWs. Every element serves a purpose, from the aerodynamic flush door handles to the air-curtain intakes in the bumper. It's a sophisticated and handsome coupe that lets its driving dynamics do the talking. The BMW X2 M35i, however, shouts its intentions. This second-generation model is all about presence, with a massive grille, bold lines, and a controversial spoiler mounted low on the hatch. It's unapologetically in-your-face. While I initially wasn't sold on its look, its rugged, aggressive stance grew on me to the point where it feels more authentically aggressive as an M car than the subtler M240i.
As for interiors, both vehicles are considered compact, but one feels more cramped than the other for obvious reasons: the M240i is a Coupe while the X2 isn't, of course. A Coupe buyer focuses on the driver and the front passenger, but nothing more. The M240i stands out thanks to its long doors and huge opening, making it slightly more challenging to close the door. In front, both are fitted with a large, curved display, composed of a digital gauge cluster on the left and an infotainment system on the right. Dimensions vary as the coupe has a larger 12.3-inch gauge cluster and 14.9-inch touchscreen, while the SUV has a smaller 10.3-inch gauge cluster and 10.7 touchscreen.
Stepping into the BMW M240i, the cabin feels surprisingly spacious for front occupants. The supportive, comfortable seats, which feature attractive blue stitching, can slide far back. The large steering wheel has a helpful red centerline marker. The 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster is decently sized and can display a full-screen map. A 14.9-inch touchscreen, placed a bit far back, is the entertainment hub and includes wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. A large control knob on the console assists with navigation, complemented by a small row of physical buttons below the vents. The excellent engine sounds are matched by a solid Harman/Kardon sound system. The X2 M35i's interior shares its BMW lineage but has key differences. It forgoes carbon fibre but uses textured grey and black panels with blue stitching that complement the aggressive M Sport seats. The steering wheel and screens are different; the digital gauge and infotainment screen are a smaller 10.3 and 10.7 inches, respectively, and the size difference is noticeable. It retains wireless smartphone integration, but the system is glitchier, even though it has the latest iDrive 9 version. A neat, upright wireless charger fits any phone size and secures it with a small handle. However, there is no central control knob, and there are only two readily available climate controls. The excellent Harman/Kardon system is also a highlight here.
Obviously, the interior and cargo capacity vary due to the type of each vehicle. Let's start with the resemblances, both vehicles are equipped with ISOFIX ports clearly visible on the bottom of the rear seats and the rear anchors are located in the back. They also both have capable trunk areas (yes, even the M240i Coupe, believe it or not!) as they both can fit large suitcases or golf bags with ease. Nonetheless, the logic was respected, the X2 had the largest rear passenger room and cargo capacity of the two, but still, the coupe doesn't feel too much like a penalty box and can be used somewhat daily, especially by kids. There are also air vents and cupholders available; the SUV adds a pair of USB-C chargers to maximize the device charging capabilities.
Under the hood, the differences are stark between these two models. The BMW M240i xDrive Coupe features a turbocharged inline-six, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, that delivers 382 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque. While its xDrive system primarily sends power to the rear wheels (a rear-wheel-drive variant is also available in the U.S.), it's further enhanced by a limited-slip differential, sport-tuned suspension, upgraded brakes, and variable-ratio steering. Car and Driver recorded a 0-60 mph time of 3.6 seconds, significantly quicker than BMW's official 4.3-second estimate. In contrast, the BMW X2 M35i is powered by a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder, tuned by the M division to produce 312 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque. Its seven-speed dual-clutch transmission sends power to all four wheels, though it is front-biased. The X2 M35i accelerates to 100 kph in 5.4 seconds, over a second slower than the coupe.
Behind the wheel, the BMW M240i and X2 feel worlds apart. The M240i coupe is a potent muscle car in spirit, launching off the line with a shove from its rear wheels. Its brilliant inline-six and adept transmission deliver power with urgency and precision. Planted firmly thanks to a low stance, it carves through turns with eagerness. The experience is engaging: the steering is sharp, the brakes are strong, and the slightly stiff suspension strikes a delicate balance between daily comfort and athletic prowess. The X2 SUV, however, failed to connect with me on the same level. A proven and potent 2.0L turbo-four powers it, and its dual-clutch transmission responds smartly to throttle inputs despite some turbo lag. As a predominantly front-wheel-drive vehicle, it disguises its tendency to oversteer quite effectively. The rigid chassis and sport-tuned suspension ensure competent handling at any speed, but this focus on sportiness comes at the expense of plushness. That said, it shares the coupe's strong braking performance with impressively little dive.
The BMW X2 and M240i are both compelling choices at a comparable price point, each serving a different market segment. The X2 is a sport-oriented SUV prioritizing practicality, while the M240i is a performance-focused coupe that is often overlooked despite its merits. The trade-off is clear: the X2 offers more utility, and the M240i delivers greater power and driving engagement (though it retains a respectable amount of cargo space). This comparison has no definitive winner; the best choice depends entirely on your need for practicality versus pure driving pleasure.
Disclaimer: BMW has lent us the vehicle as a press loan. We have no affiliation with BMW Canada. The above reflects our personal opinion of the cars referred to above.
