What Is the Smallest BMW SUV?

The X2 and the X1 subcompact crossover SUVs are the smallest BMW SUVs available today. Here are the details.
Written by Shannon Fitzgerald
Reviewed by Jessica Barrett
The 2023 BMW X2 measures 172.2 inches in length, making it the smallest BMW SUV model available today. Seating five passengers and storing about four suitcases, the BMW X2 is only narrowly smaller than the 2022 BMW X1, which has a length of 175.5 inches. 
When shopping for an SUV, sometimes longer, larger, and taller isn’t always what you’re looking for. Built more like spacious hatchbacks, subcompact SUVs can often offer easier handling and sturdier drivetrains—without the steeper gas and maintenance costs that come with larger SUVs. 
If you don’t want the towing capacity, third-row seating, or expensive
BMW X2 insurance costs
, opting for a smaller subcompact SUV like the X2 or X1 may be a better choice. That’s why
Jerry
, the
car insurance
savings super app has put together a guide to BMW’s smallest SUV models. Let’s dive in. 

What is the smallest SUV BMW makes?

While the 2022 BMW X1 is often mistakenly crowned the smallest BMW SUV available, the 2023 BMW X2 subcompact crossover actually measures slightly smaller in height and length. 
At 60.1 inches tall, 71.8 inches wide (without mirrors), and 172.2 inches long, the X2 is only marginally smaller than the X1—which stands at 62.9 inches tall, 71.7 inches wide (without mirrors), and 175.5 inches long. These similarities in size shouldn’t come as too much of a surprise, however. Both the X1 and the X2 share the same standard powertrain, after all. 
In appearance, the X2 has a coupe-like, sleeker style than the boxy X1. Widely regarded as a “hot” handler, its steering communicates well with its tires and its strong 228-hp turbocharged base engine runs a respectable 6.4 second 0-60 mph sprint. As for fuel efficiency, it delivers an EPA estimated 23/29/25 mpg city/highway/combined
That said, the X2’s small exterior lends to an equally small interior. The back seats run narrow and a bit cramped, with only 21.6 cubic feet of cargo storage in the trunk. To put this in context, the X1 features 5 extra cubic feet of cargo storage for $1,200 less in starting costs. 
MORE: BMW car-buying guide

Other small BMW SUVs

The BMW X2 is one of BMW’s smallest SUVs—but it’s not the only BMW SUV that’s compact in size. Here are a few of the X2’s similarly small SUV siblings on the market today, and what features and drawbacks each one holds.  

Smallest: 2023 BMW X2

Starting price: $36,600
Wheelbase: 105.1 inches
Seating capacity: Five
The 2023 BMW X2 sacrifices some size for smoother styling. Though its spirited drive and sporty handling make for a thrilling ride, its interior comfort—particularly in the backseat—lags behind other BMW SUV models. 

Small: 2022 BMW X1

Starting price: $35,400
Wheelbase: 105.1 inches
Seating capacity: Five
The BMW X1 boasts more passenger space and cargo storage than the X2 while also costing less. This lower MSRP might also help lower your
BMW X1 insurance costs
, as well. Though its boxy styling may not appeal to everyone, its chassis still feels well-tuned and lightweight allowing easy acceleration and agility on the road. 
Similar to the X2, the X1 features 228 turbocharged horses under its hood with an improved 27.1 cubic feet of cargo volume to stash about five standard suitcases. Though its interior comfort loses points amongst drivers for feeling stiff, it increases the X2’s 94.1 cubic feet of total passenger volume to 101.2 cubic feet of passenger roominess.  

Small-ish: 2022 BMW X3

Starting price: $45,700
Wheelbase: 112.8 inches
Seating capacity: Five
Sizing up to the 2022
BMW X3
brings an optional 503-horsepower inline-6 engine to the table with a roomier 28.7 cubic feet of cargo storage behind the rear seats. This increases to 62.7 cubic feet of maximum cargo volume when the seats are folded flat against the floor. 
The X3’s infotainment system also sees an increase in size in this model—with a standard 10.25-inch touchscreen and a 12.3-inch version available for an additional cost. Its handling and acceleration are as pliant and peppy as you would anticipate from a BMW—paired with its roomy and capable cabin the X3 truly doesn’t disappoint as a premium compact crossover SUV.   
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The best alternatives to BMW’s smallest SUV 

If small BMW SUVs just aren’t calling your name, there are plenty of other luxury subcompact and compact crossover SUV alternatives out there. In fact, BMW’s small X-series SUVs are challenged by highly capable competitors like the Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class, Range Rover Evoque, and Volvo XC40

Small but smart: 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class

For an SUV that’s smarter than the X2, but nearly identical in size and starting price, the 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class is a fine alternative. 
Starting at $36,400 ($38,400 for the 4matic AWD build), the GLA is the cheapest Mercedes SUV available. But don’t think this means it holds back on premium quality! Seats feel luxurious and roomy (offering 38 inches of rear leg room to the X2’s 36.7) and the base 221-hp turbocharged inline-4 engine powers an eager, yet confident ride.  
A highly intelligent and intuitive 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system is the real star of the show, however. Upgrading to the Multimedia Package entitles drivers to Mercedes’ ultra-futuristic AR navigation plus system—which auto-adjusts cruise control with speed limit sign recognition technology. 
Spring-loaded smart-grip cupholders and rubberized phone trays only add to the GLA’s interior cleverness. Though with just 15.4 cubic feet of cargo volume behind the rear seats, it does fall short of the X2’s storage capacity. 

Mini off-roader: 2022 Range Rover Evoque

If you’re itching to get your luxury subcompact crossover SUV off the road, the 2022 Range Rover Evoque is by far your best option. 
Starting at $45,000 for the base P250 S model, the Evoque comes at a steeper cost but includes Land Rover’s Terrain Response 2. This powerful drivetrain system enables optimized AWD with selectable settings in place for mud, gravel and snow, sand, rock crawling, and waterlogged terrain. If that’s not enough, an All-Terrain Progress Control cruise control system also allows drivers to cruise in off-roading conditions (even in base models).  
That said, rear accommodation in the Range Rover Evoque is tight. Though it maintains 21.5 cubic feet of cargo storage in the trunk, backseat passengers are limited to just 33.8 inches of legroom. Leather upholstery does come standard, however, so while it may be a cramped ride, it’s still a luxurious one. 

Best value: 2022 Volvo XC40

For its $34,100 starting MSRP, the Volvo XC40 packs in excellent interior quality, uniquely attractive styling, and a heavy load of tech and safety features. 
At its base T4 FWD powertrain and Momentum trim, the Volvo XC40 features leather seating, heated front seats, and a 12.3-inch digital driver display infotainment system. A long list of driver assistance safety features also come standard, including a blind-spot information system (with steering assist), cross-traffic alerts, lane-keep protection, backup cameras, and rear parking sensors. 
Upgrading to the Inscription trim (starting at $41,840) adds an almost ridiculous amount of ritz to the XC40’s interior. We’re talking driftwood interior trim, enhanced leather upholstery, and a genuine Orrefors crystal gear shift knob
Additionally, though the $2,000 extra T5 AWD powertrain loses some of the standard T4 FWD’s fuel efficiency (23/32/26 mpg city/highway/combined), it boosts performance with a thrilling 248-hp turbocharged inline-4 engine

How to shrink your car insurance payments

While small SUVs are a great option for enhanced fuel efficiency and easier parking, you’ll want to make sure you aren’t paying large insurance costs for a BMW or dishing out extra on premiums for a Volvo XC40. That’s where
Jerry
steps in! 
The Jerry app is free to use and instantly finds the lowest rates available for your coverage needs from over 55 top insurance companies. Once you see a policy you like, all you have to do is select it through the app, and Jerry’s expert brokers will help handle all the transition calls and paperwork. They can even help cancel your old plan for you. 
The best part? The average Jerry user ends up saving over $800 a year on
car insurance
, so it’s definitely worth a look to protect your smaller SUV for a smaller cost!
“Insurance companies originally charged me $189 while driving my BMW 300 miles per year. Thanks to
Jerry
, I only pay $56! I’m so happy.”  —Ray T.
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