BMW stopped visitors in their tracks at the Paris Motor Show with the unveiling of its Concept X2 model – a new addition to the compact segment with a distinctive design that stands apart from that of the other X models and also draws on the company history of coupe-making. The result is a compact concept exuding urban sporting appeal.

The design of the BMW Concept X2 somehow fuses apparent contradictions into a single coherent statement by combining the fast-moving body language and low-slung proportions of a coupe with the robust construction of an X model.

Large wheels and familiar two-box design underline its functional X model character, a long wheelbase, stretched roofline, short overhangs and heavily forward-slanting C-pillar give the body a sporty, low-to-the-road feel. And the striking Luminous Red body colour make the Concept X2 look even slimmer from the side.

The upper section of the car’s flanks is dominated by sporty design elements. The elongated roofline and slim window graphic create a stretched feel. The glasshouse tapers towards the rear, forming an athletic shoulder section. The large, air-channeling roof spoiler in body colour lies flat over the blackened rear window. Extending from the C-pillars, it gives the rear of the BMW Concept X2 its sporty contours.

Lower down the sides of the car, customary X-model features hog the limelight. Muscular surfaces, large wheel arches and stylistic underfloor protection around the door sills form an intriguing contrast with the dynamic elements further up. There are 21-inch light-alloy wheels, with striking, double-spoke, bi-colour design along with chunky treads that point to the potential for fun off the beaten track.

Up front, the heavily raked windscreen appears to extend seamlessly into the dark panoramic roof and teams up with the newly interpreted double kidney grille and large air intakes to give the front end a low-slung look. The flat contours of the headlight tubes help to give the classical BMW twin circular look a more hexagonal form. The laser light technology used by the headlights enables very slim light graphics, while the blue X in the centre of the hexagonal tubes adds a further technical accent.

The rear of the BMW Concept X2 rounds off the exterior design in distinctive style. Width-accentuating elements such as the slim rear window and horizontal lines reduce the perceived height of the BMW Concept X2 and underscore its sporting pretentions.

Adrian van Hooydonk, Senior Vice President BMW Group Design, said: “The BMW Concept X2 is a vehicle for active people looking for a combination of enjoyment and practicality. The concept displays a new and exciting facet of the BMW brand within the compact segment.”