BMW showcases its first electric SUV, and it might just be a game-changer.
BMW iX will directly compete with the Tesla Model X, Audi Q5 e-tron, and Mercedes-Benz EQC.
Surprisingly, even though there is no ICE engine inside, the iX still features the trademark grille upfront. Now, no matter whether or not we like BMW’s new grille design, we’ll apparently have to deal with it from now on. The German manufacturer really looks like it’s going to stick with this quite controversial design for a while.
With that being said, the BMW iX manages to create a great first impression with the remainder of the body. Besides, the SUV is much more impressive underneath, so let’s focus on that instead.
If we can trust BMW’s numbers, the iX will have much more power and range than its German counterparts. Until now, only Tesla could achieve such figures. Namely, BMW promises a 300-mile EPA range, which is very competitive in this segment. Moreover, the electric motors produce 500 HP, good enough for a 0-60 time under 5 seconds.
BMW also put a lot of effort into improving the charging technology. The iX supports 200-kW super-fast charging, for a 10% to 80% charge in 40 minutes – a 10-minute charge adds around 75-miles of range.
However, the iX supports only an 11 kW Wallbox charger. BMW says this solution is enough for a full 0-100% charge of 11 hours. Not bad for a car that has a battery capacity of over 100 kWh.
There are also several new features to the interior of the BMW iX, with the most notable one being the futuristic hexagonal steering wheel. BMW claims that the design makes it easier to get in and get out of the car. In all cases, we’d certainly love to test that.
Meanwhile, instead of two screens for the instrument cluster and infotainment system, the iX uses only one. The curved display measures 14.9 diagonal inches and is also slightly tilted towards the driver. Like in existing models, the driver can interact via touch or a dial on the central console.
With everything it has to offer, the iX could very well be one of BMW’s most important vehicles next year. It’s equipped with a next-gen electric powertrain, features a spacious and luxurious interior, and a quite futuristic look and technology. Audi, Mercedes-Benz, and Tesla should probably be worried.
The Bavarian carmaker will start production of the iX in the second half of 2021, and it’s expected to hit the US market by early 2022.
Full press release here.
BMW iX
BMW iX Sports package
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