Overview

The BMW iX is the manufacturer's flagship bespoke electric SUV, serving as a tech-heavy luxury family EV. Positioned above standard electrified conversions in the line-up, the iX is built on a dedicated, lightweight carbon-fibre and aluminium spaceframe platform. Combining the footprint of an X5 with a large, premium interior to deliver class-leading comfort, exceptional refinement, and great handling to compete directly with rivals like the Polestar 3 and Volvo EX90.

Design

The exterior design of the BMW iX is bold and divisive focusing heavily on aerodynamics and presence. A major mid-cycle refresh swaps out the previous complex front air intakes for cleaner, integrated air curtains and a less intricate pattern on the massive vertical kidney grille, which functions entirely as an intelligence panel housing radars and safety cameras. The design is dominated by an expansive glasshouse, a flat underbody, and integrated flush-fitting door handles to improve airflow. Slim, horizontal LED light signatures define both the front and rear, while muscular wheel arches house aerodynamically optimised alloy options ranging from 20 to 22 inches to give the car a powerful stance.

Interior

The cabin is full of luxury, prioritising an open, airy lounge feel with excellent material quality and minimalist design. The dedicated EV platform allows for a completely flat floor and a floating centre console, eliminating the transmission tunnel to create enormous legroom up front. A curved display housing a crisp infotainment system runs the latest BMW Operating System, paired with the crystal iDrive rotary controller on the console. Lavish upgrades include sustainable wool or olive-leaf tanned leather options, crystal-glass switchgear, and a panoramic roof featuring electrochromic technology that toggles from clear to opaque at the press of a button.

Performance & Powertrains

Every variant features a dual-motor, AWD powertrain, heavily upgraded in the latest revision for increased efficiency and range boosts. The entry-level xDrive45 produces 408 hp and 700 Nm of torque, clearing 0-62 mph in 5.1 seconds while packing a 100kWh battery pack that yields a 374-mile range. Moving up to the xDrive60 brings a larger 111kWh battery, generating 544 hp to lower the 0-62 mph sprint to 4.6 seconds alongside a range of 426 miles. Rapid charging peaks at up to 195 kW DC, enabling a 10% to 80% charge in roughly 32 to 35 minutes.

Practicality

Passenger room is excellent, ensuring 3 adults can travel comfortably in the rear with ample headroom, shoulder room, and legroom. Cabin storage is well-integrated, featuring deep door bins with partitions to prevent items sliding about, an expansive glovebox, and open areas beneath the floating console for charging devices. At the back, a 500-litre boot expands to 1,750 litres with the 40/20/40 split-folding rear seats down. The boot opening is more restricted than other large SUVs, and unlike several larger premium electric SUVs, such as the Kia EV9 or Volvo EX90, there is no option for a third row of seats or a frunk.

Buying

Pricing for the BMW iX starts from £75,315 for the xDrive45 variant, stepping up to £93,105 for the xDrive60. Available trims include Sport and M Sport specifications, which pack standard equipment like the Harman Kardon surround audio system, keyless comfort access, and a wireless charging tray. The EV Hub recommended configuration is the xDrive60 M Sport. The latest increase in battery capacity turns this model into the undisputed sweet best in terms of range, offering a superb 426 miles and a 544 hp output that effortlessly blends daily efficiency, premium luxury, and strong performance.