Remarkably capable in almost every area, the BMW iX is expensive to buy, but is one of the best electric cars on sale today
The BMW iX is a seriously impressive achievement from the German manufacturer. Famed for its engineering prowess, BMW has developed a large, all-electric SUV that is supremely comfortable, great to drive and leads the way with first-rate on-board technology.
Luxury levels of ride and refinement add to the sense of occasion, as does the interior quality, although the obvious catch is that you will have to pay handsomely for the privilege of owning one. Other minor grumbles are that the iX’s boot is a touch too small compared to some rivals, while overall range is good, but not class-leading. Other than that, the BMW iX is a superb EV and one we definitely recommend – if your pockets are deep enough.
About the BMW iX
The BMW iX is the Bavarian automaker’s first all-electric car since the i3 supermini was launched back in 2013. The i brand has also included the i8 plug-in hybrid sports car and, more recently, the battery-powered iX3 SUV and i4 Gran Coupe, although the iX is the first of the company’s EVs to use an all-new, scalable platform for electric cars.
Based on the iNext concept that was showcased at the 2018 Paris Motor Show, the iX is roughly the same size as its X5 sibling, and is being similarly marketed as a Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV) to highlight both its dynamic and lifestyle qualities. This may sound like PR guff, but the luxury iX really does deliver across the board; equipped with a surprising ability to take on A and B-roads with confidence and delivering a level of poise and assurance that belies its 2.4-tonne kerbweight.
But it’s not just the driver who’ll enjoy travelling in the iX, as passengers will also benefit from the supreme levels of comfort and on-board tech, not to mention the whisper-quiet electric powertrain and luxury cabin feel: the interior is swathed in soft-touch fabrics, while the futuristic dash design is a standout feature.
Unsurprisingly, it’s rivals from other premium manufacturers that offer up some SUV/SAV competition to the iX, although we don’t think the Audi e-tron, Mercedes EQC or the Tesla Model X provide the same excellent overall package. In fact, our own head-to-head test between the iX and e-tron highlighted the rapid pace of change in EV design and technology, with the older Audi feeling a little behind the curve compared to BMW’s smarter approach and execution.
The 322bhp xDrive40 model is the entry point into iX ownership and can manage up to 257 miles from a single charge of its 71kWh battery, while BMW claims the top-of-the-range 523bhp xDrive50 version is good for up to 380 miles, using a bigger 105.2kWh battery. Both power options can be specified with either Sport or M Sport trim levels. A standalone iX M60 performance model is also available with 610bhp and a range of up to 348 miles.
Priced from around £70,000, you’d expect the iX to feature decent levels of standard kit and it doesn’t disappoint; the entry Sport trim includes 21-inch alloy wheels, four-zone climate control, heated front seats and BMW’s Live Cockpit Professional media setup with a head-up display function.
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Continue ReadingBMW iX review – Engines, performance and drive
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In this review
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Verdict – currently readingRemarkably capable in almost every area, the BMW iX is expensive to buy, but is one of the best electric cars on sale today
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BMW iX review – Engines, performance and driveA surprisingly accomplished drive, the BMW iX is hard to fault on the road
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BMW iX review – Range, charging and running costsIf you can afford to buy and insure it, the iX will reward you with fabulously low running costs
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BMW iX review – Interior, design and technologyThe iX’s exterior design may put some off, but the interior quality and tech certainly have the wow factor
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BMW iX review – Practicality, comfort and boot spacePassengers in the iX will be supremely comfortable, although luggage space is a bit tighter than you might think
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BMW iX review – Reliability and safetyWith excellent safety credentials and solid warranty and servicing packages, the BMW iX should inspire confidence
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