[auto] Everything you need to know about BMW's crossover and SUV lineup

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BMW has the one of the most extensive crossover lineups on the market with no fewer than 24 variants — and that’s without counting the new iX EV crossover.

However, the proliferation of models is somewhat of an aberration. You see, the X1 and X2 are basically mechanically identical — the key difference is the X2’s “coupe-d” style at the back end.

While this flourish adds style, it takes away from practicality and cargo space thanks to the plunging roofline. It also affects rear seat legroom.

The same plays out for the X3/X4 and X5/X6. At this point in the year, BMW has 2020 and 2021 models listed on its website. We will focus on the 2021 models; however, the X7 xDrive40i is a 2020 model.

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All models get a three-year Apple CarPlay subscription but owners will have to open their wallet after the trial period ends. The good news is BMW has started supporting Android Auto, at least wirelessly.

All models also come with lane-departure warning, forward-collision warning with auto-brake, speed limit information, and auto high-beams. Blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert is standard on the X3 and up.

BMW X1 and X2

The affordable end of this pool is anchored by the X1 and X2. Both arrive nicely equipped with heated power front seats and an 8.8-inch touch screen providing fast and easy access to its navigation system. The key difference between these two is found in cargo space: X1 has 767 litres seats-up, and 1,662 L when folded; while X2 has 470 and 1,356 L, respectively. The X2 also has slightly less rear seat legroom and headroom. Tall riders beware.

The starting point for both models is a 2.0-litre turbo-four driving all four wheels through an eight-speed automatic transmission. With 228 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque at 1,450 rpm the response to input is quick — 100 kilometres an hour appears in 6.5 seconds. The brawnier X2 M35i uses the same engine retuned to twist out 301 hp and 331 lb-ft of torque. This sees it rocket to 100 km/h in 4.9 seconds.

Both models handle smartly, delivering plenty of roll-control and steering feedback through a fast corner without feeling harsh on broken pavement. The X2 M35i earns the M Sport suspension, lowering ride height and sharpening the responses.

BMW X3 and X4

The X3 and X4 represent the heart of the X lineup. Both arrive with generous levels of equipment and enough space to support a family of four with ease. The heated power front sport bucket seats deliver lots of support and comfort; the rear seat is also above average for the segment. Front and rear parking sensors are a nice touch, especially in the X4. The X3 has 813 L seats up and 1,775 L folded; while X4 has 524 L and 1,430 L, respectively.

The X3 and X4 share powertrains, creating the 30i and M40i. The 30i uses a 2.0L turbo-four with 248 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque. The M40i earns a 3.0L inline turbo-six with 382 hp and 368 lb-ft of torque. The former gets to in 100 km/h in 6.3 seconds; the M40i in 4.5 seconds. Also, know that X3 earns a third model — the 30e plug-in hybrid whose engine and electric motor combine to deliver 288 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque, giving a 6.1-second run to 100 km/h. All engines work with an eight-speed automatic and xDrive all-wheel-drive.

Regardless of model, these compact crossovers deliver driving fun with better-than-average steering feel and handling. The M40i also adds a purposeful exhaust note. This combination makes X3/X4 two of the most engaging drives in its segment.

BMW X5 and X6

The X5 and X6 stake a middle ground and amp up the level of equipment appreciably. Key is the 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 12.3-inch touchscreen for the infotainment system. The latter has a learning curve, but it’s smarter once mastered. Comfort is there for all to enjoy, except those in the X5’s available third row. It is tight and not available on the X6. Cargo space rates 960 L and 2,047 L in the five-seat X5. The X6 has 776 L and 1,688 L, respectively.

The X5/X6 arrive as 40i and M50i models. The 40i uses a 3.0L inline turbo-six making 335 hp and 331 lb-ft of torque. The M50i gets a brawny 4.4L twin-turbo V8 with 523 hp and 553 lb-ft of torque. Both engines work with an eight-speed automatic and xDrive. The combination is quick, with the 40i hitting 100 km/h in 5.5 seconds; the M50i in 4.3 seconds. New for 2021 is the X5 xDrive45e plug-in hybrid. This engine and electric motor combine to deliver 389 hp and 443 lb-ft of torque.

For a large crossover, the X5/X6 drive like a significantly smaller unit. This is particularly true of the M50i models. They get an M specific adaptive suspension, M Sport rear differential, and M brakes. It gets as close to the X5 M/X6 M as possible without moving well up the price ladder.