The BMW iX is a battery-powered mid-size luxury SUV produced by German automaker BMW.
The automaker initially revealed its concept, “Vision iNext,” at the 2018 Paris Motor Show. Meanwhile, its production-ready model debuted in November 2020.
The 2023 BMW iX SUV previews the brand’s electric future, offering the same space and practicality as the X5.
The iX nameplate represents the model’s spot at the top of the i electric portfolio and its role in demonstrating the technology. It employs the brand’s fifth-gen electric drive system.
New Features in 2023
BMW introduced the high-performance M60 model to the 2023 portfolio, boasting a 610-hp all-electric powertrain and a 290-mile driving range.
It has an air suspension that can adapt to sporty driving. Meanwhile, three individual packs, including the Convenience, Dynamic Handling, and Luxury, have now been squeezed into one enormous feature bundle under the Ultimate package.
Design and Aesthetics
a. Exterior design and style
The 2023 BMW iX sports tall wagon proportions with intense L-shaped trim on the front bumper.
It also has a buck-toothed grille that is made of a self-healing polymer. Therefore, the car’s surface can gradually bring back its shiny appearance on its own.
It offers a new futuristic style with the following features:
- intelligent kidney grille
- aerodynamic enhancements
- expansive size
Below are the iX’s dimensions and weight:
| Dimensions and Weight | BMW iX xDrive40 | BMW iX xDrive50 | BMW iX M60 |
| Length | 4953 mm | 4953 mm | 4953 mm |
| Width | 1967 mm | 1967 mm | 1967 mm |
| Width with mirrors | 2230 mm | 2230 mm | 2230 mm |
| Height | 1695 mm | 1696 mm | 1696 mm |
| Wheelbase | 3000 mm | 3000 mm | 3000 mm |
| Weight Unladen (EU) | 2440 kg | 2585 kg | 2659 kg |
| Gross Vehicle Weight (GVWR) | 3010 kg | 3145 kg | 3160 kg |
| Max. Payload | 645 kg | 635 kg | 576 kg |
| Cargo Volume | 500 L | 500 L | 500 L |
| Cargo Volume Max | 1750 L | 1750 L | 1750 L |
| Cargo Volume Frunk | No Data | No Data | No Data |
| Roof Load | 75 kg | 75 kg | 75 kg |
| Tow Hitch Possible | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Towing Weight Unbraked | 750 kg | 750 kg | 750 kg |
| Towing Weight Braked | 2500 kg | 2500 kg | 2500 kg |
| Vertical Load Max | 100 kg | 100 kg | 100 kg |
b. Interior design and materials
The 2023 BMW iX has a simple and modern design featuring high-tech elements that include the following:
- large curved touchscreen instrument panel
- hexagonal-shaped steering wheel
It also has a huge panoramic sunroof with optional electrochromic shading. It also offers faux-leather and genuine leather upholsteries. Apart from that, it also boasts a textile seat fabric as an option.
c. Build quality and fit and finish
The build quality of the BMW iX is top-notch. It is also highly practical, with enormous space for five adult passengers.
d. Ergonomics and comfort
The BMW iX power front seats are heated with incorporated speakers for its stereo system. As stated, the inside of the e-SUV is enormous, with sufficient space for five passengers to stretch out.
The driver and passenger seats are high, offering a nice view forward. It also offers many seat and wheel adjustments, boosting comfort for both drivers and passengers.
e. Cargo space and storage
As mentioned, the size of the BMW iX is as enormous as the mid-size X5 and X6 crossovers. Therefore, its passenger and cargo space is also similar to these models.
Its legroom is more than enough and also offers an enormous headroom even for six-foot passengers.
Moreover, its boot space has a 500-liter capacity.
Performance and Driving Dynamics
a. Powertrain and battery specifications
| Powertrain | BMW iX xDrive40 | BMW iX xDrive50 | BMW iX M60 |
| 240 kW (326 PS) | 240 kW (326 PS) | 385 kW (523 PS) | 455 kW (619 PS) |
| 630 Nm | 630 Nm | 765 Nm | 1100 Nm |
| AWD | AWD | AWD | AWD |
| Battery | BMW iX xDrive40 | BMW iX xDrive40 | BMW iX M60 |
| Nominal Capacity | 76.6 kWh | 111.5 kWh | 111.5 kWh |
| Battery Type | Lithium-ion | Lithium-ion | Lithium-ion |
| Number of Cells | No Data | No Data | No Data |
| Architecture | 400 V | 400 V | 400 V |
| Useable Capacity | 71.0 kWh | 105.2 kWh | 105.2 kWh |
| Cathode Material | No Data | No Data | No Data |
| Pack Configuration | No Data | No Data | No Data |
| Nominal Voltage | 330 V | 369 V | 369 V |
b. Acceleration and top speed
| Powertrain | BMW iX xDrive40 | BMW iX xDrive50 | BMW iX M60 |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 6.1 sec | 4.6 sec | 3.8 sec |
| Top Speed | 200 km/h | 200 km/h | 250 km/h |
c. Handling and ride quality
The BMW iX kept its weight down with its ample use of lightweight materials, such as the aluminum and carbon-fiber composite chassis.
The low center of mass aids the e-SUV’s stability around corners. Its air suspension also automatically reduces, which improves stability when driving at high speeds.
d. Braking performance
The IX’s brakes are strong, and the one-pedal driving mode works smoothly. It maneuvers incredibly well for such a heavy vehicle, offering stability around turns.
e. Regenerative braking
The BMW iX’s regenerative braking system offers Adaptive Recuperation mode as default. This mode utilizes the following factors to determine the regeneration amount to apply:
- navigation data
- battery level
- distance to the car ahead
Range, Charging, and Efficiency
a. EPA-estimated range and real-world range
The iX is equipped with a large 105.2-kWh battery pack, offering an EPA-estimated range of up to 324 miles between charges. However, below are the e-SUV’s EVDB and WLTP range:
| Powertrain | BMW iX xDrive40 | BMW iX xDrive50 | BMW iX M60 |
| EVDB Range | 360 km | 505 km | 485 km |
| WLTP Range (TEL) | 425 km | 630 km | 566 km |
| WLTP Range (TEH) | 372 km | 549 km | 499 km |
TEL = Test Energy Low | TEH = Test Energy High
b. Charging options and infrastructure
| Home/Destination | BMW iX xDrive40 | BMW iX xDrive50 | BMW iX M60 |
| Charge Port | Type 2 | Type 2 | Type 2 |
| Port Location | Right Side – Rear | Right Side – Rear | Right Side – Rear |
| Charge Power | 11 kW AC | 11 kW AC | 11 kW AC |
| Charge Time (0->360 km) | 7h45m | 11h15m | 11h15m |
| Charge Speed | 47 km/h | 45 km/h | 43 km/h |
| Fast Charging | BMW iX xDrive40 | BMW iX xDrive50 | BMW iX M60 |
| Fastcharge Port | CCS | CCS | CCS |
| FC Port Location | Right Side – Rear | Right Side – Rear | Right Side – Rear |
| Fastcharge Power (max) | 148 kW DC | 195 kW DC | 195 kW DC |
| Fastcharge Time (36->288 km) | 31 min | 31 min | 31 min |
| Fastcharge Speed | 480 km/h | 680 km/h | 650 km/h |
c. Charging times for various charging levels
Here is BMW iX’s entry level’s charging times for various charging levels:
Type 2 (Mennekes – IEC 62196)
| Standard 11.0 kW On-Board Charger | Max. Power | Power | Time | Rate |
| Wall Plug (2.3 kW) | 230V / 1x10A | 2.3 kW | 36h30m | 10 km/h |
| 1-phase 16A (3.7 kW) | 230V / 1x16A | 3.7 kW | 22h45m | 16 km/h |
| 1-phase 32A (7.4 kW) | 230V / 1x32A | 7.4 kW | 11h30m | 31 km/h |
| 3-phase 16A (11 kW) | 400V / 3x16A | 11 kW | 7h45m | 46 km/h |
| 3-phase 32A (22 kW) | 400V / 3x16A | 11 kW † | 7h45m | 46 km/h |
| Optional 22.0kW On-Board Charger | Max. Power | Power | Time | Rate |
| Wall Plug (2.3 kW) | 230V / 1x10A | 2.3 kW | 36h30m | 10 km/h |
| 1-phase 16A (3.7 kW) | 230V / 1x16A | 3.7 kW | 22h45m | 16 km/h |
| 1-phase 32A (7.4 kW) | 230V / 1x32A | 7.4 kW | 11h30m | 31 km/h |
| 3-phase 16A (11 kW) | 400V / 3x16A | 11 kW | 7h45m | 46 km/h |
| 3-phase 32A (22 kW) | 400V / 3x32A | 22 kW † | 4 hours | 90 km/h |
† = Limited by on-board charger, vehicle cannot charge faster.
Combined Charging System (CCS Combo 2)
| Charging Point | Max. Power | Avg. Power | Time | Rate |
| CCS (50 kW DC) | 46 kW † | 44 kW † | 71 min | 210 km/h |
| CCS (150 kW DC) | 148 kW † | 102 kW † | 31 min | 480 km/h |
| CCS (300 kW DC) | 148 kW † | 102 kW † | 31 min | 480 km/h |
d. Energy consumption and efficiency
| Items | BMW iX xDrive40 | BMW iX xDrive50 | BMW iX M60 |
| EVDB Real Range | 360 km | 505 km | 485 km |
| Vehicle Consumption | 197 Wh/km | 208 Wh/km | 217 Wh/km |
| CO2 Emissions | 0 g/km | 0 g/km | 0 g/km |
| Vehicle Fuel Equivalent | 2.2 l/100km | 2.3 l/100km | 2.4 l/100km |
| WLTP Ratings (TEL) | 425 km | 630 km | 566 km |
| Rated Consumption | 194 Wh/km | 198 Wh/km | 217 Wh/km |
| Vehicle Consumption | 167 Wh/km | 167 Wh/km | 186 Wh/km |
| CO2 Emissions | 0 g/km | 0 g/km | 0 g/km |
| Rated Fuel Equivalent | 2.2 l/100km | 2.2 l/100km | 2.4 l/100km |
| Vehicle Fuel Equivalent | 1.9 l/100km | 1.9 l/100km | 2.1 l/100km |
| WLTP Ratings (TEH) | 372 km | 549 km | 499 km |
| Rated Consumption | 225 Wh/km | 230 Wh/km | 247 Wh/km |
| Vehicle Consumption | 191 Wh/km | 192 Wh/km | 211 Wh/km |
| CO2 Emissions | 0 g/km | 0 g/km | 0 g/km |
| Rated Fuel Equivalent | 2.5 l/100km | 2.6 l/100km | 2.8 l/100km |
| Vehicle Fuel Equivalent | 2.1 l/100km | 2.2 l/100km | 2.4 l/100km |
TEL = Test Energy Low | TEH = Test Energy High
Vehicle Miscellaneous
| Items | BMW iX xDrive40 | BMW iX xDrive50 | BMW iX M60 |
| Seats | 5 people | 5 people | 5 people |
| Isofix | No Data | No Data | No Data |
| Turning Circle | 12.8 m | 12.8 m | 12.3 m |
| Platform | BMW CLAR | BMW CLAR | BMW CLAR |
| Car Body | SUV | SUV | SUV |
| Segment | JE – Executive | JE – Executive | JE – Executive |
| Roof Rails | No | No | No |
| EV Dedicated Platform | No | No | No |
Infotainment and Connectivity
a. Dashboard and instrument cluster
It has a huge 14.9-inch infotainment display and a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster, offering a tech-forward dashboard design. It is most commonly known as the twin-screen cockpit, sitting side by side on the dashboard.
b. Infotainment system and features
The BMW iX was the first model to use the iDrive 8 infotainment software. Since then, it launched a complementary over-the-air update to iDrive 8.5.
The software supports menu and graphic customization and also offers a voice-activated assistant. Apart from that, it also allows Wi-Fi hotspots with a 5G connection.
It is also standardly equipped with an 18-speaker Harman/Kardon stereo system. Meanwhile, the 30-speaker Bowers & Wilkins setup is optional.
c. Smartphone integration (Apple CarPlay, Android Auto)
It supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard.
e. Over-the-air software updates
BMW offers its latest complimentary over-the-air (OTA) Remote Software Upgrade, bringing new features to its current offerings.
Safety and Driver Assistance:
a. Driver assistance and safety systems (ADAS)
The BMW iX offers useful driver-assistance features, such as the following:
- parking sensors
- autonomous emergency braking
- automatic high-beam headlamps
- lane-keeping assist systems
Meanwhile, its 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
Reliability, Maintenance and Warranty
a. Reliability and build quality concerns
The BMW iX currently has no records of safety recalls from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Moreover, Consumer Reports predicted that the 2023 BMW iX would have about average reliability compared to other new vehicles.
b. Safety award
Safety (Euro NCAP)
| Safety Rating | 5-star |
| Rating Year | 2021 |
| Adult Occupant | 91% |
| Child Occupant | 87% |
| Vulnerable Road Users | 73% |
| Safety Assist | 81% |
For more details on the safety rating of this vehicle, visit euroncap.com
b. Maintenance and service requirements
c. Warranty coverage and options
The iX comes standard with the following warranty coverage:
- 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
d. Insurance costs and considerations
BMW iX insurance costs approximately $2,396 per year, $1,198 for a 6-month policy or about $200 per month.
e. Resale value and depreciation
Car Dealer Magazine indicated that the depreciation of the iX is -34.1% based on a £79,034 asking price.
Comparison with Competitors
| Items | 2023 BMW iX | 2023 Tesla Model Y |
| Engine | Electric | Electric |
| Transmission | Single Speed Automatic | Single Speed Automatic |
| Drivetrain | All-Wheel Drive | All-Wheel Drive |
| Fuel Economy | City: 76 MPGEHwy: 80 MPGE | City: 127 MPGEHwy: 117 MPGE |
| Range | 288 miles | 330 miles |
| Seating Capacity | 5 seater | 5 seater |
| Torque | 749 lb-ft | 475 lb-ft |
| Horsepower | 532 hp | 425 hp |
| Battery size | 111.5 kWh | 81 kWh |
| Pricing | $85,095 | $52,630 |
Discuss the unique selling points and drawbacks of the reviewed EV compared to its competitors
The 2023 BMW iX is more expensive with a starting price of $85,095 than the 2023 Tesla Model Y at $52,630. However, the former boasts a more potent torque and horsepower. It also offers a more please interior design with lots of technologies and space.
Variants and Pricing
a. List the available trim levels, options, and pricing
| Pricing | BMW iX xDrive40 | BMW iX xDrive50 | BMW iX M60 |
| USA | – | $85,095 | $109,095 |
| United Kingdom | £69,905 | £99,785 | £119,225 |
| The Netherlands | €84,998 | €108,243 | €140,671 |
| Germany | €77,300 | €100,100 | €136,100 |
b. Value Proposition
The 2023 BMW iX is a huge electric SUV with numerous technologies. However, its exterior is not the best compared to the currently available EVs. It also offers exceptional performance and comfort, particularly with air suspension. All that said, it is still worth the investment.
If we only consider the iX’s driving experience, range and handling, the e-SUV is undoubtedly a remarkable model in the brand’s EV portfolio. However, it has weird designs such as the steering wheel controls and door openers, among others. Its exterior is also not very pleasing compared to other SUVs in the market.
The price difference between the potent xDrive50 trim and the robust M60 variant is considerable. That said, we would recommend opting for the less expensive xDrive50 as it offers a similar 290-mile driving range as the M60 model.
