The BMW iX marks BMW’s venture into the electric SUV market in the U.S. as a high-end luxury vehicle, distinguished from its predecessors by its unique design, dimensions, and technology. Competitors to the iX include the Tesla Model X, Audi E-Tron SUV, Cadillac Lyriq, Mercedes EQS SUV, and for those seeking a more rugged look, the Rivian R1S.
The BMW iX signifies the beginning of BMW’s next era of electric vehicles, moving beyond the innovative i3 city car and the futuristic i8 near-supercar. BMW has expressed plans for battery-electric vehicles like the iX to constitute over half of its goal to sell 25 electrified vehicles globally by 2023, which includes plug-in hybrids and mild hybrids. The iX will share showroom floors with the recently revealed i4 electric sport sedan, a vehicle similar in size to the Tesla Model 3.
The design is likely to be the most divisive aspect for potential iX buyers. Taking inspiration from the now-discontinued BMW i3 hatchback with carbon-fiber elements, the iX combines a rather conventional SUV silhouette with distinctive features like frameless doors, a large patterned faux-grille, and unique taillights. Inside, there’s a radical departure with new controls and a hexagonal steering wheel design.
Built on a dedicated electric platform, the iX is equipped with a dual-motor system producing a combined 516 hp and 564 lb-ft of torque, allowing for a 0-60 mph acceleration in 4.4 seconds. The more powerful iX M60 delivers 610 hp and 811 lb-ft and can sprint in 3.6 seconds, offering adaptive air suspension, enhanced handling, and M Sport enhancements. The option for rear-wheel steering is present, while the iX boasts a comfortable ride quality even with its large 22-inch wheels.
For a sizable electric vehicle, the iX offers an impressive driving range. With an EPA range of up to 324 miles thanks to its 106.3-kWh battery, the iX also benefits from a low center of gravity, enhancing its handling. Regenerative braking offers multiple settings, including a one-pedal driving mode that maximizes energy recovery and aids in braking.
Charging the iX is efficient with a Level 2 240-volt home charger and an onboard 11-kW charger, capable of reaching a full charge in under 11 hours. Utilizing a Level 3 DC fast charger rated at 200 kW, the iX can add 75 miles of range in just 10 minutes or go from 10% to 80% charge in 40 minutes according to BMW.
The interior of the iX provides comfort and a comprehensive feature set that may sway skeptics of its exterior design. Available in Shadowline and Sport trims, optional features include a head-up display, four-zone climate control, radiant heating, a premium 30-speaker Bowers & Wilkins sound system, panoramic sunroof, and laser headlights.
Interior spaciousness and comfort are notable strengths of the iX, with ample storage compartments alongside the seats and up to 77.9 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded. The iX is 195 inches long, 77 inches wide, and 67 inches tall, dimensions comparable to a three-row SUV despite seating for five. The iX stands out as one of the most spacious five-seaters due to its dedicated EV platform, rivaling even BMW’s larger X7 SUV.
All iX variants are equipped with the Live Cockpit Plus infotainment system, featuring a curved display extending from the instrument cluster to a 12.3-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. The iDrive controller has evolved to rely more on touchscreen interactions, offering shortcuts and redundancies that may require some time to navigate effectively.
The iX is available in two distinct trims: Shadowline and Sport. The base Shadowline model starts at $86,545 and includes a panoramic roof with electrochromic shading, Connected Package Pro with telematics services, and Active Driving Assistant features. Upgrading to the Sport trim for an additional $2,800 adds 21-inch Aero bi-color wheels, dark trim, and taillights.
Optional packages enhance the iX’s features further. The $2,300 Convenience package integrates a head-up display, surround-view camera system, Harman Kardon surround sound, gesture and voice controls, and simulated engine sounds. The $4,000 Premium package expands on these offerings with multi-functional massage seats, an interior camera, and the premium Bowers & Wilkins sound system. Additionally, a standalone $950 radiant heating package is available, with four-zone climate control standard across all trims.
The 2022 BMW iX50 showcases BMW’s advancement in electric vehicle technology, building on its previous experiences with models like the i3. The iX epitomizes a well-rounded electric vehicle, incorporating cutting-edge features, efficient powertrains, and dynamic performance that set the standard for the next wave of electric vehicles.
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