BMW has launched another baby X SUV model into its ever-increasing line-up and it's big on style, performance and appeal.

The X2 is certainly a more compact option but boasts sportier design cues than its siblings with a low-slung appearance, coupe styling, narrow windows, a wider lower grille, flowing roofline, rising waistline, twin tail pipes and 19-inch alloys.

It is nearly an inch shorter than the X1 and three inches lower which, once again, contributes to the vehicle's athletic stance and these dimensions also result in excellent handling capabilities.

Our car was powered by a 190bhp 2.0-litre diesel engine mated to an eight-speed automatic gearbox.

It could sprint from 0-62mph in 7.7 seconds, topped out at 137mph and, according to official figures, can deliver combined fuel economy of 58.9mpg with carbon emissions of 126g/km.

There are four trim levels to choose from called SE, Sport, M Sport and M Sport X - we chose the M Sport model costing £37,940, a price that increased to £44,185 after a number of optional extras and packs were added.

The interior is beautifully designed with leather upholstery, lots of soft-touch surfaces and carbon-effect inserts on the dashboard.

And there's a raft of techno treats to explore, including an infotainment touchscreen, head-up display, excellent sat nav system, enhanced Bluetooth with wireless charging, a WiFi hotspot, a Harman Kardon sound system and plenty more besides.

Connecting a smartphone is a quick and simple process and navigating the car's technology is achieved via BMW's trademark rotary iDrive dial.

Space and comfort levels within the five-door X2 are fine up front but taller passengers will find the legroom a little cramped in the back. And those narrow windows that look so smart from the outside can be a little claustrophobic for rear seat passengers.

That said though; a couple of adults could travel comfortably if the front seats are not pushed right back, or a trio of youngsters would have little to complain about.

When put to the test, the X2 passes with flying colours. In busy town centres it is nimble and easy to manoeuvre with the parking aids proving invaluable.

Out on the faster lanes, the car fires through the gears with rapid, smooth acceleration and there are paddle shifts if the driver fancies taking a little more control.

The road-holding is exceptional and there is precise, direct steering with ample driver feedback. Our car featured BMW's xDrive all-wheel drive set-up which offers added assurance during more severe weather conditions.

There are different drive modes called Eco Pro, Comfort and Sport that alter the car's responses with Sport really sharpening up the handling.

The cabin is well refined and barely a sound filters through from the diesel powertrain even when pushed on. There is a little road surface noise at higher speeds on motorways, but it is minimal.

Riding high on 19-inch wheels does mean you will feel the occasional bump or two on uneven surfaces, but generally the excellent suspension system irons out most of the road creases.

Obviously, SUVs need to offer great versatility and practicality and the X2 does well on that front. The powered boot is very convenient when carrying lots of shopping.

It has a capacity of 470 litres which can be increased to 1,355 litres with the 40:20:40 split-folding rear seats dropped flat. Elsewhere there are handy door bins, a glovebox, cup holders, central cubby and trays to store goodies and the boot comes with a net to secure any luggage.