The BMW iX xDrive50 will be a direct competitor to the Tesla Model X, packing a high-end luxurious cabin, an all-wheel-drive 516-HP powertrain, and a 300-mile EPA range.
If you always wanted to own and drive a battery-electric crossover but never really considered Tesla as an option, BMW has got you covered. A very able competitor to the Tesla Model X, the 2022 BMW iX xDrive50 is a smart-looking electric SUV that fits into the mid-size segment and offers the customer a perfect combination of performance and range.
The iX xDrive50 is an optimal concoction of the German automaker’s latest advancements in the fields of design, connectivity, and electrification. It is built on a special aluminum spaceframe chassis that delivers high levels of rigidity and reduced weight, thanks to an intelligent mix of design materials.
Advanced Adjustable Suspension System
Furthermore, to provide uncompromised levels of comfort and stability, BMW chose to go with something called “lift-related shock absorbers” as the standard suspension system in the iX xDrive50. The setup incorporates extra hydraulic dampening that intelligently adapts its firmness to offer an excellent driving experience. If that doesn’t seem suited to your taste, you can opt for BMW’s bespoke adaptive air suspension that electronically controls shocks and lets you adjust the ground clearance; lift your chassis 0.8 inch or lower it by 0.4 inches during high-speed cruising to ensure a low center of gravity.
Solid, but Not Tesla-Beating Numbers
The BMW iX xDrive50 packs an impressive dual-motor all-wheel-drive system. The all-electric powertrain delivers 516 HP and 564 lb-ft of torque. However, if that does not sound lucrative enough, BMW is already working to unveil an M sport model that boasts 600+HP. So while it’s sad that only 106.9 kWh of the tempting 110 kWh battery is usable, the all-electric driving range of 300 miles (on the more cynical EPA cycle) does not look too shabby.
Thanks to BMW’s cutting-edge EV technology, the battery pack can readily withstand a 200 kW DC fast charge. These numbers translate into a 10-80% charge time of fewer than 40 mins. Besides, if you are in a real hurry, your new BMW iX xDrive50 can help you out with 90 miles of driving range only after 10 minutes of charging. But don’t just leave yet. A 4.6 seconds sprint to reach 60 mph might not be spectacular, especially compared to a Tesla, but for an SUV, BMW did a rather solid job.
Plush Interior with High-End Features
The German automaker did not get very creative with the cabin of the iX xDrive50. Since we are in the second decade of the 21st century, a 14.9-inch infotainment system comes as standard. However, you don’t have to poke the dash to access the infotainment features, as BMW incorporated a haptic-based control surface on the central console. Moreover, a digital instrument cluster sits behind a never-seen-before hexagonal steering wheel and does a pretty good job at imparting a futuristic and quirky look to the cabin.
The BMW iX xDrive50 will arrive in US dealerships in the first quarter of 2022. With a base price of $84,195, the Sports Activity Vehicle (as BMW likes to call it) is a very credible option if you are looking for a sporty crossover that stands out among the crowd and is powerful enough to give you the thrills the brand is known for.
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