Overview
Based on the Vision iNext concept that BMW showed back in fall 2018, the production 2022 iX is the brand’s first all-electric compact SUV—and it’s mighty compelling. BMW says the iX should go on sale in early 2022 and offer an electric driving range of about 300 miles per charge. Two electric motors provide full-time all-wheel drive, and carbon-fiber-reinforced plastic body panels help save weight. The iX’s cabin is quite spacious with plenty of modern technology features on display, including a slick curved digital instrument panel screen. Upon its arrival at U.S. dealerships, it will find itself competing with rivals such as the Audi e-tron, the Mercedes-Benz EQC, the Tesla Model X, and the upcoming Rivian R1S.
What’s New for 2022?
The iX is an all-new and all-electric model in BMW’s lineup when it appears in early 2022.
Pricing and Which One to Buy
BMW has not released pricing for the more expensive M60 model, but we expect it to command a significant premium over the xDrive50 trim. For now, we’ll recommend the xDrive50, which comes standard with most every luxury and convenience feature that its price tag should.
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
Two different variants of the iX will be offered, the first being the xDrive50, which will be powered by a pair of electric motors that combine to make 516 hp; all-wheel drive is standard. By our estimates that’s enough power to scoot the iX to 60 mph in 4.4 seconds. A high-performance variant called M60 will go on sale after the xDrive50 model and will offer over 600 hp. The iX is offered with an optional adjustable air suspension and a rear-wheel-steering system. During our initial test drive of an xDrive50 model, we noted plentiful power, surprising energy efficiency, agile handling, and a smooth ride. When we get a chance to drive the iX at our test track, we’ll update this story with test results.
Range, Charging, and Battery Life
The iX sports a large 106.3-kWh battery pack that BMW says will offer around 300 miles of driving range per charge. DC fast charging capability will be 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 will be able to charge on other popular networks, as well as through a Level 2 home charging station.
Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG
The EPA has not released fuel economy estimates for the iX yet, nor has it confirmed BMW’s claimed 300-mile driving range. When we get a chance to test the iX on our 75-mph highway fuel economy test route, we’ll update this story with range and MPGe results. For more information about the iX’s fuel economy, visit the EPA’s website.
Interior, Comfort, and Cargo
The Bimmer SUV is said to be about the same size as the company’s mid-size X5 and X6 crossovers, and its passenger and cargo space is expected to be 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.
Infotainment and Connectivity
BMW is using the iX SUV and the i4 sedan as the launchpad for its next-generation infotainment interface, which it calls iDrive 8. The software allows for customization of menus and graphics, as well as a voice-activated assistant. A large 14.9-inch infotainment display combines with a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster to create the iX’s tech-forward dashboard design. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across the board, and BMW also offers a Wi-Fi hotspot with a 5G cellular connection. An 18-speaker Harman/Kardon stereo system is standard; a 30-speaker Bowers & Wilkins setup is an option.
Safety and Driver-Assistance Features
BMW has not detailed what kind of driver-assistance features the iX will offer or whether they will be standard or optional, but an array of exterior cameras and the promise of a powerful on-board computer indicate there will be advanced autonomous or semi-autonomous self-driving capability. For more information about the iX’s crash-test results, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites. Key safety features include:
- Standard automated emergency braking with pedestrian detection
- Standard lane-departure warning with lane-keeping assist
- Available adaptive cruise control with semi-autonomous driving mode
Warranty and Maintenance Coverage
The iX comes standard with the same warranty coverage as BMW’s other electrified model, the i4 sedan, which means basic coverage for four years or 50,000 miles and more generous protection for the electric-vehicle components. All new BMWs also come with a three-year complimentary maintenance plan.
- Limited warranty covers four years or 50,000 miles
- Powertrain warranty covers four years or 50,000 miles
- EV components warranty covers eight years or 100,000 miles
- Complimentary maintenance is covered for three years or 36,000 miles