BMW X2 M35i: A Blend of Performance and Off-road Mastery

While BMW traditionally stood aside, witnessing Mercedes reap the benefits of their off-road SUVs, especially with the G Class, things are about to change. Mercedes, with its iconic three-pointed star, is looking to capitalize on the G Class's success with a smaller, more versatile version. Meanwhile, BMW is making headway in the performance crossover and SUV segment, exemplified by the controversial XM hybrid plug-in.

Enter the X2 with M35i specs. Newly unveiled, this road-focused performance crossover has been revamped for off-road challenges, specifically the Raliul Rebelle.

Upgrades include Falken Wildpeak all-terrain tires, Rotiform ZMO-M wheels, and protective shielding under the wheelbase. The M Performance X2 isn’t just about durability; it boasts aesthetic enhancements like additional front and rear lighting, a Thule roof rack, and a matte Frozen Portimao Blue finish from the Individual catalog, protected by paint protection film.

This particular M35i model features a spare tire carrier in the cargo area, tow straps from the M Performance Parts catalog, a TerraTrip external odometer, and Smittybilt off-road recovery equipment.

The Rebelle Rally, spanning eight days, is the most extended off-road rally competition in the U.S. Starting at Mammoth Mountain Resort in Mammoth Lakes, it culminates in the Imperial Dunes near the Mexican border. For the 2024 race, the X2 M35i, steered by Rebecca Donaghe and navigated by Sedona Blinson, has to traverse six rigorous stages and cover over 1,300 miles across the harsh terrains of California and Nevada.

The U.S. variant of the X2 M35i, with a turbocharged 2.0-liter gasoline engine, delivers a robust 312 HP and 295 lb-ft of torque, surpassing its European counterpart in power.