So it’s been out now for a few months, you might even have seen one out on the road. You know the one, looks like an X1 but shrunken in a science lab, or that it even looks like a lifted wagon/estate. Whatever that new BMW with the roundel neatly placed on the c-pillar looks like to you, that’s the new BMW X2.

What is it? A new crossover SUV that slots in-between the X1 and the X3.  Allegedly, it’s the more sporting version of an X1, in the same vein that an X4 is related to the X3. Remember the days when BMW had just the X5 and then  the X3? By next year, they’ll have, wait for it: X1 X2 X3 X4 X5 X6 and X7. Some might call it heresy. Whatever you want to make of it, there’s no denying it; this is a good looking car. Great looking, in fact, especially in that pupil-popping blue or orange. Heck, I even like that weird, slightly yellow-but-at-the-same-time-green color.

Imagine an X1 that got pinched in the front and rear, shortening the overhangs, but with a nice tapering to both ends. The M Sport X adds visual drama with extra gills and openings and adornments of metal trim pieces. There are some pretty tasty wheels on option too. Inside, the design theme from the  X3 and 5-series carries over, bringing a very nice update to the interior compared to, say, a current 3-series. Materials are top notch, as is the tech inside, with the newest iDrive.

On the road, the BMW X2 feels definitely related to the X1. Makes sense, they really are the same car underneath. Except, it’s not all X1. Steering response is slightly sharper as is the subsequent response from the chassis itself. The perception that this is a sporting car is not awash, but that’s the key word. This is not a sports car, but it is a sporting car, with sports intentions. For the likely buyer, that is more than enough. Engine response resembles that of a naturally aspirated engine much better than most turbocharged engines. Mid-range power is what it lives for. Not rapid, but capable.

As far as crossovers go, this is easily what I think is one of the best looking on the market. The drive is deeply satisfying with a surprising edge to the steering and handling, while remaining comfortable. However, and this is a big but; it’s expensive. Fully loaded with the right color and that M Sport X package will run $50,000. That’s a lot for what is a small car. Which reminds me to point out that the back seat is not the most comfortable. Shrinking it down has had an adverse effect on space, most the rear seat a cargo area. Visibility is hurt too, not helped by the rising beltline in the rear.

I’d call it a lifestyle car, but lifestyle cars do not drive this well. Compromise is present, so it is something you must consider when taking in the price and cargo space (or lack thereof) into thought. You could have a loaded X1 M Sport for far less, with tons more room, too and drives mostly similar. One thing is for sure, your eyes will undoubtedly follow the X2 more closely. Or when someone goes down the road in the X2 you nearly bought. An accessory, a grocery-getter, an adventurer, or a sports-crossover, call it what you want, but it’s an X2.