Our Rating
4/5
Pros
Cons
Introduction
BMW’s line-up of electric cars is growing at an alarming rate, with the iX and i4 arriving in the last 12 months alone. But it’s not stopping there as at the start of 2023 there will be a new kid on the block – the iX1.
Sitting alongside regular petrol, diesel and hybrid versions of BMW’s new third-generation X1, this new model will be the entry point to the German firm’s line-up when deliveries start early next year.
Boasting a new electric powertrain, the brand’s latest interior technology and a smart new design, it faces some tough competition next to the Audi Q4 e-tron and Mercedes EQA. Let’s find out what it’s like.
Performance
Just one powertrain will be offered on the iX1, or at least from launch. Called the xDrive30, it combines two electric motors (one at the front and one at the rear, making it all-wheel-drive) and a 64.7kWh battery.
There’s plenty of performance on offer, with the iX1’s motors developing 309bhp and 494Nm of torque, allowing for a 0-60mph time of 5.5 seconds and a top speed capped at 112mph.
The battery isn’t quite as large as some of its rivals, with BMW claiming up to 272 miles from a charge – less than the top powertrains in rivals from Audi and Mercedes. You can, however, rapid charge the iX1 at up to 130kW, allowing a 10 to 80 per cent charge to take place in less than half an hour in optimal conditions.
Ride and handling
There’s certainly no shortage of pace with the iX1 as it’s particularly brisk – more so when you activate the ‘boost’ setting that unlocks the full potential. It handles nicely too, and feels nimble on the right road, while BMW has introduced its ‘Iconic Sound’ to the iX1. This is essentially a futuristic noise that aims to simulate and replace the sense of speed, just like an engine gets louder the higher it revs. You can, however, turn this off if you don’t like it.
Our test car was still a pre-production model, with iX1s not set to roll out of the factory for another month at the time of writing. The ride quality was quite unsettled on our route, though we expect BMW to improve this as part of final fine-tuning.
Interior
The latest cabin design of the X1 is a big step up from its predecessor, with BMW’s new ‘Curved Display’ being a real highlight. It merges together a digital dial display and touchscreen in one smart piece of glass and there’s also augmented reality for the satellite navigation that gives you ‘live’ directions. It’s particularly useful when driving around a town or city.
Though the iX1’s interior offers plenty of practicality, it’s not quite as roomy inside as the Audi Q4 e-tron, which uses a bespoke EV platform that helps to free up more cabin space. We expect most families won’t be asking for more room, though.
Equipment
Just two trim levels are available on the iX1 – xLine and M Sport.
Standard equipment is impressive for both, though, including LED front and rear lights, automatic climate control, an electric boot and the aforementioned Curve Display.
The M Sport then brings a more aggressive look, larger 19-inch alloy wheels, keyless entry and wireless smartphone charging.
Cost
As with any EV, the electric iX1 commands a noticeable premium over petrol and diesel versions of the X1, with the range starting from £52,255 and rising to £54,960 for the M Sport.
Just be careful with how many option packs you choose as the price can quickly increase to £60,000 with various extras selected.
Verdict
BMW has already shown real promise with its existing electric cars, and the iX1 looks to be another fantastic choice.
Its combination of performance, an enjoyable driving experience and high-quality interior are all desirable traits in the compact premium SUV class, and we expect the iX1 to prove a very popular choice for BMW.
