The BMW iX is the automaker‘s latest foray into the electric vehicle market, bringing sporty performance, cutting-edge technology, and trademark BMW luxury to the EV segment. As BMW‘s new flagship electric vehicle, the iX aims to compete with the likes of the Tesla Model X and Audi e-tron with its combination of range, power, and premium appointments.
Now that the iX has been on the market for over a year, we have enough data to analyze if BMW‘s EV experiment is paying off. How has public reception been? Does the iX have what it takes to sway luxury buyers from combustion vehicles? I‘ve compiled all the details potential buyers need to decide if the 2023 BMW iX is worth the investment.
BMW iX Overview
Before diving into the specs, let‘s recap the basics of BMW‘s electric SUV:
- Two versions offered: xDrive50 and sportier M60
- 324 mile max range on xDrive50, 280 miles on M60
- DC fast charging capability: 10-80% in 31 minutes
- MSRP: $84,100 for xDrive50, $108,900 for M60
- High-tech luxury appointments inside and out
- Cutting edge driver assistance and infotainment tech
As BMW‘s first dedicated electric SUV, the automaker put its all into making the iX a showcase of technological innovation paired with the brand‘s trademark driving dynamics and upscale interior. Early reviews praised the vehicle‘s comfortable, tech-laden cabin and sporty handing. However, controversy around the front grille design and lofty pricing left some critics on the fence.
BMW iX Versus the Competition
Though one of the first luxury electric SUVs on the market, the iX now faces stiff competition from brands looking to electrify their model lineups. Here‘s how BMW stacks up to key rivals:
Tesla Model X
Arguably the vehicle the iX needs to beat, the Tesla Model X debuted in 2015 as one of the first all-electric luxury SUVs. With rakish falcon wing doors, copious range, and seating for seven, the latest Model X offers higher performance and more passenger room than BMW‘s entrant. However, some may appreciate the more mainstream design and luxurious interior finish of the iX over the spaceship-like Tesla.
Audi e-tron
Sharing a similar design language of BMW‘s X vehicles, the Audi e-tron delivers a more familiar-looking EV option than the iX. However, its shorter range and lack of track-focused performance trim put the e-tron at a disadvantage. Audi bests the iX when it comes to cabin space though, as the BMW‘s sleek design cuts into cargo capacity.
Mercedes-Benz EQS/EQE SUV
Mercedes is the latest luxury automaker to roll out electric SUVs, with the recent debut of the 2024 EQS SUV this year. Though officially unreleased, projected range and performance put the top EQS 580 4MATIC+ model ahead of BMW‘s sportiest M60 version. However, as a brand new offering, the Mercedes does lack the sales data and reliability reputation BMW has cultivated so far.
Design and Construction
Unmistakably a BMW yet distinctly unique, the aero-focused exterior design of the iX sets it apart from the pack. Low-slung, with smooth convex and concave curves, the iX cuts through the air for optimal efficiency without sacrificing interior volume.
BMW built the iX on an all-new platform designed specifically for electrification, with an aluminum spaceframe structure reinforced by carbon fiber components. The Ultimum aluminum is sourced sustainably and creatively incorporated into the battery housing itself in a proprietary technique.
Up front, the iX‘s controversial grille displays active aerodynamics. Flaps behind the kidney design open and close to route air as needed for battery cooling and range maximization. The sleek LED headlights and expansive glass roof complete the modern minimalism. Unique bronze accents on the sporty M60 provide subtle distinction from the standard iX.
Interior
Inside, the iX‘s interior mirrors the sleek exterior design while upping the luxury. Premium natural materials like microfiber cloth and exotic wood finishes pair with the latest infotainment technology to create a calming yet engaging environment. Five passengers fit comfortably within the spacious, flat-floored cabin. However, compromised cargo space compared to rivals and lack of third row seating make the iX best suited to smaller families.
The real showstopper is the stunning digital display spanning over half the width of the cockpit. Curved to face the driver, the layout combines touch inputs with voice control, gestures and haptics through the hexagonal steering wheel. Customizable profiles and an intuitive interface keep all controls within easy reach.
Factor in the diamond-cut glass controls, ambient interior lighting, optional massage functionality, and exceptional Bowers & Wilkins sound system, and the iX enters ultra-premium territory. BMW pulled out all the stops to make every drive feel like an indulgent escape without losing focus on the road.
Technology and Driver Assists
As BMW‘s technology leader, the latest advancements debut on the iX before trickling down to other models. From augmented reality overlays in navigation to automated parking functions, the iX sets a high bar.
Foremost among the iX‘s repertoire of tech are its abundant active safety aids and partial self-driving capabilities. Nearly a dozen radar sensors, cameras and ultrasonic devices mounted throughout the vehicle work together for a comprehensive 360-degree view. Data fused from this sensor array feeds the automated driver assists:
- FCW and AEB: Forward collision and automatic emergency braking
- BSW and LCA: Blind spot monitoring with lane change assist
- PA and ASP: Parking assistants (parallel, perpendicular, backup) with surround view camera
- LDW and LKA: Lane departure alerts and lane keep assist
- ACC and TJA: Adaptive cruise control with advanced traffic jam assist
- AVAS: Acoustic vehicle alerting system for pedestrians
These intelligent assists allow for Level 2+ autonomy, though full self-driving still requires supervision. Augmented reality overlays on the central display enhance directions when engaged. All told, the extensive suite rivals Tesla‘s Autopilot system for assistance during monotonous highway commutes or tricky parking maneuvers.
Performance and Range
The iX also channels BMW‘s motorsport heritage in its athletic driving dynamics. Built on a dedicated EV architecture with near perfect 50/50 weight distribution, both xDrive50 and M60 trims deliver the brand‘s renowned agility.
Let‘s break down what propels each version:
iX xDrive50
- Dual eDrive motors (front and rear axle)
- 516 hp / 564 lb-ft torque
- 0-60 mph in 4.4 seconds
- Top speed 124 mph (limited)
- 101.7 kWh battery capacity
- Max EPA range: 324 miles
The xDrive50 supplies plenty of punch for the majority of drivers seeking performance and efficiency. Its spacious battery enables substantial range for road trips or daily commutes without frequent charging. Optional DC fast charging juices back up to 80% in just 31 minutes.
iX M60
- Bespoke M Performance eDrive motors
- 610 hp / 811 lb-ft torque
- 0-60 mph in 3.6 seconds
- Top speed 155 mph (limited)
- 111.5 kWh total battery capacity
- Max EPA range: 280 miles
For power hungry drivers, the M60 trim unlocks extra muscle. Dropping 0.8 seconds on the 0-60 time versus the base iX, the M60 packs supercar acceleration into a 5-seater SUV. Beefed up traction, chassis, and braking balance out the additional torque. And while max range takes a hit from the performance, 280 miles still enables most commutes and moderate road trips between charges.
Charging Capabilities
Speaking of charging, the iX supports AC and DC fast charging. With the optional DC fast charger, juice back up quickly during a meal stop:
- 10 minutes = over 90 miles (10-80% in 31 minutes)
- 30 minutes = 173 miles (10-95% in 38 minutes)
Level 2 home charging takes around 11 hours from a fully drained battery. Supporting up to 11 kW power levels from compatible home stations, most owners can conveniently replenish overnight.
For even quicker home charging, BMW offers an optional ACE fast charger clipping charge time to just 7.5 hours. Hands down, the iX exhibits some of the most well-rounded and flexible charging capabilities in its class.
2023 Pricing and Availability
Strong initial sales and reception prompted BMW to ramp up iX production over the last year. Waiting lists that once stretched into 2023 have now shortened. BMW expects to fulfill most new orders within the next few months.
Here is latest MSRP pricing for the 2023 BMW iX lineup:
- iX xDrive50: Starts at $84,100 before tax credits
- iX M60: Starts at $106,100 before tax credits
Note that qualifying buyers may still be eligible for the $7,500 federal tax credit plus additional state rebates. With elevated demand for luxury EVs, most dealers are hesitant to offer discounts below the base price. Even so, purchasing or leasing an iX nets eligibility for HOV lane access in many regions−no doubt a nice perk.
Public Reception and Early Sales
Reviews emerged all across the spectrum when the iX first debuted. Applauded for its technology and sumptuous interior, some balked at the unconventional exterior styling or lofty sticker prices.
However, those concerns seem to have had little effect on interest and sales. In 2021, preorders outpaced production capacity, leading to long waitlists. The story continues into 2023, with year-to-date US sales reflecting a 173.3% increase over last year.
With over 3,000 units sold stateside already, BMW appears on track to eclipse 2022 US sales exceeding 5,300 units. Consumer reception affirms the brand made smart moves targeting eco-conscious luxury buyers with the combination of sustainability, innovation and performance showcased in the iX.
The Bottom Line
The 2023 BMW iX makes a compelling case as one of the most well-rounded electric SUV options from a luxury automaker. Early reliability data proves positive as well, indicating BMW put care into translating its decades of technical expertise into EV drivetrain dependability.
For shoppers seeking a premium electric SUV that balances technology, luxury and athleticism without straying too far into avant garde territory, the BMW iX warrants serious consideration. Both sporty and modern yet comfortable and familiar, the iX manages mass appeal amidst a market brimming with six-figure EV flagships. Now that wait times are easing, this year presents prime opportunity to get behind the wheel.
