BMW’s smallest electric features a luxurious cabin and good looks while delivering solid performance.
BMW’s iX1 is based on the X1, the company’s entry-level SUV. Unlike some other brands, BMW likes some continuity in design when it comes to their ICE and EV models. The iX1, as a result, looks pretty much exactly like the X1. It is not just the design here that’s shared, a number of mechanical components are also shared, while still delivering the benefits of electric power. The BMW iX1 exemplifies this strategy, offering a compelling blend of performance, practicality, and approachable pricing. It addresses some shortcomings of the standard X1, making it a strong contender in the luxury EV space.
Standout features of BMW iX1:
Styling and Practicality
The iX1’s design stays true to the X1’s aesthetic, ensuring a smooth transition for those new to EVs. Subtle differences like a blanked-out grille with a blue outline and blue accents on the BMW badges distinguish it as the electric model. The iX1 retains the X1’s commanding presence with its upright and bold front end, but it does sit a little closer to the ground, and I think that helps with the stance slightly.
The rear of the iX1 features 3D detailing on the lights (something of a design characteristic of new BMW cars) and contrasting black elements that help to tone down the bulk and make the SUV appear compact. Overall, it maintains a sporty appearance, accentuated by the M-Sport alloy wheels on our review model. It is a large, spacious SUV with a 490-litre boot however, the spare tyre is in the boot instead of below it, and that eats up some space.
Interior Comfort and Quality
Like in the X1, the iX1 features a standout cabin that’s both ergonomic and decidedly premium. Inside, the iX1 closely resembles the X1, with the addition of a blue badge on the steering wheel. Materials are good and construction feels solid, while a classic beige and black colour combination is chosen for the interiors. The metal finishes, like the ones around the speakers, look and feel great. There is a good mix of textures and materials in the cabin, and that keeps things interesting. There are a number of storage spaces with a large section just below the drive selector unit. Nifty additions like the vertically oriented wireless charger are a thoughtful touch.
The large panel, which houses both the infotainment and the instrument cluster, is perched prominently on the dashboard, and as in other new BMWs, the two displays are high-res and responsive. One gripe I have with both the X1 and the iX1 is the fact that some controls are buried in menus and are particularly difficult to use while on the go.
Rear Passenger Comfort and Features
BMW has successfully maintained rear passenger comfort in the transition to electric. Despite a slightly raised floor, legroom and headroom remain adequate for most adults. The seats offer good support and enough space for the occasional third passenger in the back. Large windows and quarter glass create an open and airy atmosphere. While the lack of a flat floor might be noticeable for a third passenger, the contoured seat mitigates this issue.
The iX1 shares its feature set with the standard X1, including massaging front seats, a panoramic sunroof, a 12-speaker Harman Kardon audio system, leather upholstery, ambient lighting, and connected car features. Safety equipment includes emergency braking, lane departure warning, hill descent control, and an active park assist feature. However, there’s no blind-spot monitoring or a 360-degree camera.
Battery, Range, and Charging
The iX1 is equipped with a 66.4 kWh lithium-ion battery pack, of which 64.7 kWh is usable. The WLTP-rated range is up to 440 km, but in the real world, you can expect to get around 350km. There are of course drive modes, and even in Eco mode, which prioritizes range, there is enough performance to be had. We drove the iX1 in the city as well as on the highway and were pleasantly surprised to note that triple-digit cruising didn’t affect the range adversely.
Charging speeds are adequate, with DC fast charging at up to 135 kW allowing for a 10-80% charge in 29 minutes. A full charge using an 11 kW AC charger takes a little over six hours.
Driving Experience and Performance
Seated in the driver’s seat, the iX1 offers a commanding view of the road ahead. It is also fairly easy to get into a comfortable position. When BMW launched the iX1, I was most curious about the driving experience. To me the X1 is a very well-rounded SUV but it lacks in sheer performance. The petrol and diesel drivetrains offer 123hp and 150hp respectively, numbers that are much lower than what the last-gen X1 had. In the iX1, that number is 313hp, with torque just shy of 500Nm. And that is delivered to both the axles making this an all-wheel drive SUV, something that the X1 is not. 0-100kmph takes 5.6 seconds and the iX1 is seriously quick. To me, this is the powertrain that perfectly suits the driving dynamics of the X1 body. And for moments, when you feel that a little extra power would be great, the iX1’s left paddle can be pulled to engage E-boost mode for 10 seconds.
It does handle well, but when driving enthusiastically over some sections, its weight comes into the picture and the suspension seems to get caught off-guard. It is a very comfortable SUV in the city, but in the corners, there is a good amount of body roll and that last ten per cent of handling finesse that BMWs deliver so often is missing.
That said, I did find the all-wheel drive to be particularly useful as I drove down a slippery slushy section on the way to a weekend trip with my family. The grip proved invaluable, as I was able to make my way comfortably through a treacherous section that a front-wheel drive would struggle on. I am not sure if it is something a lot of people will care about, but all-wheel drive is definitely good to have.
Verdict
When compared to the X1, the BMW iX1 delivers a much better drivetrain with very few compromises (ex-showroom price of SGD 240,888). Even against the broader luxury EV competition, the iX1 is a very good choice. While most of the other EVs offer solid performance, they don’t offer the practicality and the luxuriously appointed cabin of the iX1.
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All Images: Courtesy BMW
This article first appeared on Lifestyle Asia India
