BMW has added another performance SUV to its range, this time in the form of the 2019 BMW X2 M35i.

Starting at $68,900 before on-roads and fees, the X2 ‘xDrive’ M35i is powered by BMW’s B48 turbocharged 2.0-litre inline four-cylinder engine, with outputs of 225kW and 450Nm.

They’re hot hatch numbers in a compact SUV that doesn’t actually weigh all that much more than some AWD hot hatches – we estimate the M35i will tip the scales near the 1.6-tonne mark.

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With xDrive providing all-paw grip, the X2 M35i manages to outrun its likely hefty weight figure with a 0-100km/h sprint of just 4.9 seconds, BMW claims.

This is helped along by an 8-speed auto with launch control – with steering wheel-mounted paddles, of course.

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Underneath, M Sport-tuned suspension is “specifically adapted to the X2 M35i’s requirements,” which has historically meant the ride is stiffer to handle sharper cornering. A set of 20-inch-alloys will see to making the ride a little bumpier in exchange for better filling the wheel arches.

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An M Sport mechanical limited-slip differential is fitted between the front wheels, while BMW’s go-fast division has also tuned the steering to be “agile and precise.” M Sport brakes are also part of the M35i’s newfound M parts.

To the casual observer, the M35i will be able to be picked by the Aerodynamics package, which adds Cerium Grey body trim and gloss black details.

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BMW Australia also offers an ‘Enhance Pack’ for the X2 M35i, which adds metallic paintwork, a panorama glass sunroof and Wireless phone charging for $2900.

The 2019 BMW X2 xDrive M35i is available to order now, with production beginning this month.