BMW iX review

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.

The BMW iX is the Bavarian automaker’s first all-electric car since the i3 supermini was launched back in 2013, and is regarded in some circles as a surefire future classic. 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, particularly in high-performance M60 guise.

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 regular 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  611bhp and a range of up to 348 miles, although it’s eye-wateringly expensive at well over £110,000.

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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