One of the best electric SUVs is now on display at BMW. The iX is a mid-size SUV that resembles the brand’s well-known X5, although it is powered by two electric motors rather than a single gasoline engine. The entry-level xDrive50 automobiles have 516 horsepower, while the M60 model has 610 horsepower, in true BMW fashion. The iX can travel more than 300 miles without charging in between, outdoing the Audi e-tron and Rivian R1S. The interior design of the BMW iX is impressive, cleverly integrating current entertainment technologies with high-end materials. For long-distance travel, the iX’s front seats are plush and exceptionally comfortable, and a hands-free driving option is available to make such activities even simpler.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Forceful acceleration | High prices |
| Enjoyable ride and handling | Rear seats mounted a few inches too low |
| Tastefully appointed interior | |
| Plenty of seating and cargo space |
What’s New for 2024
For 2024, the iX receives upgrades to its Parking Assistant Professional function, which allows the customer to remotely park the SUV via a smartphone app. The technology can remember up to ten distinct places and the movements required for the iX to park in those spots, giving the driver the option to park with a tap. BMW’s Highway Assistant technology, which permits hands-free driving on some highways, is now included in the optional Driver Assistance Professional package. In addition, an upgrade to the battery’s pre-conditioning mechanism allows iX users to start heating the battery pack before inserting it into a DC fast charger, which boosts charging speed.
The following are the most significant alterations to the BMW iX over time:
- 2024: Available highway driving assist; park assist gains remote function
- 2023: M60 trim introduced
- 2022: all-new model
Pricing and Trims
The BMW iX xDrive50 2024 begins at $87,100. The base model has a 14.9-inch touch screen and a panoramic roof. The iX M60 costs $111,500 and includes features like air suspension and rear-wheel steering.
The powerful M60 variant costs significantly more than the xDrive50 level. While the M60 has a longer driving range and faster performance, we prefer the xDrive50 since it provides the same amount of range for significantly less money.
EV Motor
The iX is a perfect illustration of how electric SUVs are changing how huge cars are intended to handle. The weight of batteries positioned deep under the floor adds to the sense of being hunkered down. The iX isn’t very fun to drive, but it turns well, and the mild steering gives the impression that the iX is lighter than it is.
The BMW iX xDrive50 2024 is powered by a 111.5-kWh battery and two electric motors with a combined output of 516 horsepower. Acceleration is immediate, and reaching highway speeds is simple. The iX M60 uses the same electric system as the iX, but it has 610 horsepower. Both versions are easy to drive in and around town.
According to BMW, the basic iX xDrive50 can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 4.4 seconds and has a peak speed of 124 mph. The iX M60 is faster, with a 3.6-second zero-to-60-mph time and a peak speed of 130 mph.
Ride and Handling
The iX glides effortlessly over most surfaces, and even major pavement flaws aren’t a problem, although the road doesn’t provide much steering feel. Because of its low center of gravity, this BMW handles smoothly in curves, and the regenerative braking system works effectively with a natural feel. It also enables one-pedal driving and braking.
It’s also a quiet SUV, with little wind and road noise on the highway. Visibility is superb, particularly out the front windows, and the various cameras can handle anything that is difficult to see normally.
Range and Battery
The iX has a massive 105.2-kWh battery pack that, according to the EPA, will provide up to 324 miles of driving range per charge. The iX has a range of around 324 miles. That is possible with the xDrive50’s basic 20-inch wheels; upgrade to bigger wheels, and the range reduces to a little over 300 miles. The iX M60 has a range of 274 to 288 miles, depending on the wheel size. Overall, the EV’s range is comparable to that of competitors.
According to BMW, Level 2 charging can charge a battery from empty to 100% capacity in less than 12 hours. In 10 minutes, a Level 3 charger may add up to 90 miles of range. BMW claims that charging via Electrify America may recover around 200 miles of range in a half-hour.
Interior
The cabin of the 2024 BMW iX is crisp and contemporary, with high-quality details and a forward-thinking design. The majority of outside traffic and wind noise is filtered out, and materials that are environmentally sourced or recycled contribute to the premium sense. The huge door apertures and low stepovers make it simple to enter and exit. Once inside, there’s enough space for passengers, with a flat floor throughout the cabin, plenty of headroom and legroom in both seats, and plenty of shoulder room. As an option, BMW provides a big panoramic sunroof with electrochromic shade, a clever feature seen on only a few automobiles. The heated power front seats also have integrated speakers for the iX’s sound system. There are faux-leather and genuine leather upholstery options, but BMW also has a textile seat fabric option called Loft that utilizes microfiber cloth.
Many of the iX’s interior functions, including the temperature system, are based on the touchscreen. At the very least, the major temperature settings are simple to access and modify. Rear passengers benefit from two climatic zones as well as a variety of vents for maximum coverage. All things considered, the system does a great job of keeping the cabin cozy.
Behind the back seats, there is 35.5 cubic feet of cargo capacity, which can be folded down to offer up a total of 77.9 cubic feet. These stats are excellent for an electric SUV, and they make the iX rather practical. One major complaint is that there is no storage space under the front hood, although many other EVs have at least a tiny luggage box.
Infotainment
BMW’s iDrive infotainment system is simple to understand and use, thanks to rapid reaction times and a generally straightforward menu organization. Most features may be controlled by the touch screen, a rotary controller on the central console, or voice instructions. However, there are essentially no physical buttons or knobs for routine modifications; instead, you must go through the on-screen settings, which can be irritating when driving.
Standard infotainment features: a 14.9-inch touch screen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth, six USB ports, navigation, a 12-speaker stereo, HD Radio, satellite radio, voice recognition, and wireless device charging
Available infotainment features: augmented-reality navigation, an 18-speaker Harman Kardon surround-sound stereo, a 30-speaker Bowers & Wilkins surround-sound stereo, active cabin sounds, and a Wi-Fi hot spot
Additional standard features: a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, proximity keyless entry, quad-zone automatic climate control, ambient interior lighting, a panoramic moonroof, a universal garage door opener, and an auto-dimming rearview mirror
Other available features: an interior security camera and glass cabin controls
Fuel Economy
The combined city/highway mileage of the 2024 iX xDrive50 is 86 MPG-equivalent, which is approximately typical for a new electric car. In combined city/highway driving, the xDrive M60 can get up to 78 MPGe.
Safety
The iX comes standard with a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance functions, including parking sensors, autonomous emergency braking, automatic high-beam headlights, and lane-keeping assist systems. Visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites for additional information on the iX’s crash-test results. The following are important safety features:
- Automatic emergency braking with pedestrian recognition is standard.
- Lane-departure warning with lane-keeping assistance is standard.
- Adaptive cruise control with a semi-autonomous driving mode is available.
Warranty
The iX comes with the same warranty coverage as BMW’s other electrified model, the i4 sedan, which includes basic coverage for four years or 50,000 miles as well as extra comprehensive protection for electric-vehicle components. All new BMWs also get a complimentary three-year maintenance package.
- The limited warranty period is four years or 50,000 miles.
- The powertrain warranty is valid for four years or 50,000 miles.
- The guarantee for EV components is eight years or 100,000 miles.
- Maintenance is included for three years, or 36,000 miles.
Competitive Cars
BMW iX vs. Tesla Model X
The Tesla Model X, formerly the standard-bearer of the luxury electric SUV class, has been surpassed in most areas by competitors. It does, however, stand out for its supercar-like acceleration, nearly 350-mile maximum range, and access to Tesla’s Supercharger network. This electric vehicle offers cutting-edge technology and enhanced safety features, as well as a large cargo hold and an optional third row. Nonetheless, the Tesla Model X features a less polished interior, an unduly convoluted infotainment system, and a significantly higher starting price than the iX.
BMW iX vs. Audi e-tron
The Audi e-tron costs around $70,000, making it a more cost-effective option than the more expensive iX. However, this Audi has a 226-mile maximum range and less baggage space than the BMW. Both of these electric SUVs have attractive interiors, user-friendly electronics, and comfy seats, although the iX’s second row may be a touch roomier. Furthermore, the iX offers more powerful engine options and is a touch more enjoyable to drive overall.
