BMW’s SUV lineup is expansive, and the automaker now sells as many utility vehicles as it does cars. The X2 slots into that catalog on the lower end of the size and price spectrums, but it still offers a BMW-like experience with sharp driving dynamics and a subdued interior. Few changes make their way into the model line for 2023, but the X2 remains a solid, fun-to-drive compact SUV.

In the base sDrive28i, the engine makes 228 horsepower and sends it to the front wheels through an eight-speed automatic transmission. The sportier X2 M35i delivers 302 horsepower from its four-cylinder engine, which provides much livelier acceleration and performance at all times. The M-tuned variant comes standard with all-wheel drive, which helps put that power to the road for a blazing zero to 60 mph time of just 4.6 seconds.

Though BMW didn’t change the X2’s appearance for the new model year, it released a new GoldPlay package for the sDrive28i and xDrive28i. This is coupled with the available M Sport package, which brings upgraded suspension, tuned steering, and a lowered ride height. Gold exterior trim and an exclusive front-end design round out the package.

Underneath, the X2 shares much of its design with the X1, but it’s not as spacious or useful as the X1. Due to its sloping roof, the curvier X2 loses headroom in the back seat. There’s seating for five people, but people in the front seats get far more comfortable accommodations. Front headroom measures 39.8 inches and front legroom is 40.3 inches. In back, there’s just 37.1 inches of head room and 36.7 inches of legroom, so the back seat is best reserved for kids or smaller adults.

Every X2 comes with an 8.8-inch touchscreen with navigation. The system offers controls through gesture, voice, touch, and the iDrive controller in the center console. BMW’s latest infotainment software is responsive and intuitive, but it does require more interaction than others to achieve simple tasks. Voice controls work well, and the rotary dial offers a quick way to scroll through menus. Apple CarPlay is standard, but BMW does not offer Android Auto, nor does it offer the ability to add the tech.

BMW equips a decent list of standard safety equipment that includes forward-collision warnings, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warnings, speed limit info, LED headlights with cornering lights, a rearview camera, parking sensors, and real-time traffic info. Adaptive cruise control and blind-spot monitoring are available. The new X2 hasn’t been crash-tested yet, but the 2021 model earned “Good” scores in all crash test categories.

The 2023 X2 is on sale now. The base xDrive28i starts at $37,595, and adding all-wheel drive pushes the price to $39,595. BMW hasn’t released pricing information for the M35i model yet, but it’s expected to start near $50,000.