Entry-level xDrive50 models offer 516 horsepower but, in true BMW fashion, there's a performance oriented M60 trim with 610 ponies. Driven sedately, the iX can motor on for over 300 miles between charges; in our testing both models only delivered 290 miles of highway driving, which is still more than we could muster in the Audi e-tron and the Rivian R1S. Inside, the iX impresses with a cabin design that expertly blends futuristic infotainment tech with high-end materials. The iX's front seats are plush and perfectly comfortable for long-distance driving—and an available hands-free driving mode further facilitates such driving tasks.
The iX gains updates to its Parking Assistant Professional feature for 2024 that allows the buyer to remotely park the SUV via a smartphone app. The system can remember up to 10 different locations and the maneuvers the iX would need to take to park in that location, providing the driver an option to park with a tap. The optional Driver Assistance Professional package now includes BMW's Highway Assistant feature, which enables hands-free driving on certain highways. Elsewhere, an update to the battery's pre-conditioning system allows iX owners to initiate heating of the battery pack prior to plugging into a DC fast charger, which improves the charging rate.
EV Motor, Power, and Performance
Two different variants of the iX are on offer, the first being the xDrive50, which is powered by a pair of electric motors that combine to make 516 hp; all-wheel drive is standard. In our testing, the iX xDrive50 scooted to 60 mph in just 4.0 seconds. The high-performance variant, called M60, offers a whopping 610 hp and we estimate that's enough to rocket the mid-size SUV to 60 mph in just 3.2 seconds. An adjustable air suspension and a rear-wheel-steering system are both optional on the entry-level xDrive 50 and standard on the M60. During our initial test drive of an xDrive50 model, we noted plentiful power, surprising energy efficiency, agile handling, and a smooth ride.
Range, Charging, and Battery Life
The iX sports a large 105.2-kWh battery pack that the EPA estimates will offer up to 324 miles of driving range per charge. When we tested the iX on our 75-mph highway fuel economy test we were surprised by its range. Normally, highway driving quickly reduces the overall driving range of an EV and the result is a fraction of its overall range estimate, but the iX recorded an impressive 290 miles of range in our test. The 610-hp M60 we drove for the same test also achieved 290 miles of range. DC fast charging capability is standard and the iX can recharge from 10 percent to 80 percent in just 35 minutes when hooked up to a 200-kW connection. BMW has partnered with EVgo to provide a network of public charging stations for iX drivers, but the SUV is able to charge on other popular networks, as well as through a Level 2 home charging station.
Fuel Economy and Real-World MPGe
The EPA estimates that the most efficient iX model is the one equipped with the standard 20-inch wheels, which earned ratings of 86 MPGe city and 87 MPGe highway. Going with one of the iX's larger sets of wheels reduces those numbers, but only slightly. On our 75-mph highway fuel economy test route the iX managed only a 81 MPGe result, but provided an excellent 290 miles of range. For more information about the iX's fuel economy, visit the EPA's website.
Interior, Comfort, and Cargo
The Bimmer SUV is about the same size as the company's mid-size X5 and X6 crossovers, and its passenger and cargo space is similar to those models as well. The iX's interior design is both simple and modern with a host of high-tech elements including a large curved touchscreen instrument panel and a hexagonal-shaped steering wheel. BMW offers a large panoramic sunroof featuring electrochromic shading as an option—a trick feature found on only a few vehicles. Power front seats are also heated and feature integrated speakers for the iX's stereo system. Both faux-leather and genuine leather upholsteries are offered, but BMW also offers a textile seat fabric option—dubbed Loft—which uses microfiber cloth.
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