SPIED: BMW X2 M35i to get 300 hp from a 2.0L turbo?

BMW’s latest darling, the F39 X2, looks set to receive its hottest variant sometime this year, possibly bearing a M35i moniker. Currently, the most powerful variant in the X2 stable is the xDrive25d, which draws power from a 2.0 litre four-cylinder turbodiesel making 231 hp and 450 Nm.

The M35i (if at all BMW chooses to brand it as such) will utilise an upgraded version of the B48 2.0 litre petrol mill, and this one is rumoured to pack close to 300 hp. It’ll be paired with an eight-speed automatic, though it’s worth knowing that the X2 is also available with a seven-speed dual clutch automatic.

The red unit spotted here is fitted with the mandatory go-fast kit such as the M Sport bumper, twin five-spoke gun-metal alloy wheels, blue M Performance brake calipers and a set of twin exhaust pipes for a more dramatic soundtrack.

Our spy photographers took a peek inside and found minimal changes to the cabin, except that the backrest of the front seats have been masked, possibly in an effort to conceal the M stamping. Other changes may include carbon-fibre trimmings and M sport seats, but we’ll know exactly what when the car is revealed.

Back at home, BMW Malaysia is taking orders for the sole X2 sDrive20i M Sport offering in the country. With an estimated pricing of RM320,000, the front-drive SUV coupe will be powered by a B48 2.0 litre four-cylinder petrol making 192 hp and 280 Nm of torque. A seven-speed wet dual-clutch transmission is standard.

Standard kit includes full LED headlights, LED fog lights, 19-inch M double-spoke alloy wheels, M Sport suspension that lowers ride height by 10 mm, Comfort Access keyless entry, auto air-con, Parking Assistant, a head-up display, a Professional navigation system with an 8.8-inch screen, a powered tailgate and a reverse camera.

Available colours include Galvanic Gold, Misano Blue and Sunset Orange paired to black Dakota leather upholstery, as well as Black Sapphire with Magma Red Dakota leather. Interested? Read our full review of the F39 X2 xDrive20d in Lisbon, Portugal, and watch the video review below.