BMW iX xDrive40 first drive

Zap-Map verdict: “Large, luxurious, and long range. The BMW iX is a striking showcase of the German manufacturer’s electric ambitions.”

BMW iX xDrive40: Range & charging

There are two versions of the BMW iX available for buyers, with a third, high-performance M60 model along in due course. Until then, we have the xDrive40 tested here and xDrive50. Maximum range available comes from the xDrive50, which offers a range of up to 380 miles.

There are two configurations available:

• • ● BMW iX xDrive40 – 240 kW – 76.6 kWh – 257 miles
  • ● BMW iX xDrive50 – 385 kW – 111.5 kWh – 380 miles

Range

This version of the BMW iX has an official range of up to 257 miles on a charge, though the flagship model has a huge 380 miles, taking it straight to the head of its class in terms of range available on a single charge.

During the limited time available with this first drive review, we were achieving around 220 miles on a charge – averaging 3.1 miles per kWh – but this was over some fast roads and driven in winter temperatures. I’d reckon a more accurate average would be 230/240 miles on a charge.

Braking

There are three different brake energy recuperation levels for the driver to pick from, plus an adaptive mode. The former sees region levels range from practically coasting through to one-pedal driving capability, while the adaptive set-up uses radar and cameras, plus the navigation system, to predict the best level of recuperation at that time. It’s a flexible system, and works very well, though most will leave the iX in High recuperation mode until venturing out on a long motorway trip.

Charging

Charging is available at up to 150 kW DC on this iX xDrive40 model – the xDrive50 gets up to 195 kW DC capability – and 11 kW AC charging. This sees a high-power recharging session take a little over half an hour for a 10-80% recharge. When plugged in to an 11 kW point, it will take around 8 hours for a full charge.

The BMW iX xDrive40 on the road

Although BMW is rightly famed for its driving dynamics, the iX is not a flag-bearer in this regard. It’s a large, heavy SUV, and with suspension that is comfortable rather than stiffly sprung. The flip side of this is that the iX is actually a very refined drive, and a natural long-distance cruiser. It crushes most of the road’s imperfections, and although it feels large in tight town streets, it’s a capable family workhorse.

What’s the BMW iX xDrive40 like to drive?

Powered by twin electric motors producing a combined 240 kW, the iX xDrive40 will complete the 0-62mph sprint in 6.1 seconds. It’s quick, and faster than you really need a large SUV to be. And this is the lowest power model. The all-wheel drive and responsive electric motors mean pick up is brisk, and you can make the most of that in town driving. But it’s on the open road where the iX feels most at home, cruising along at motorway speeds with ease.

BMW iX xDrive40: Comfort & Practicality

For such a large car, the boot space is not particularly impressive. Don’t get me wrong, it’s fairly spacious, but the iX is in the same class as the likes of the Range Rover, and it’s simply not as spacious as the British off-roader. Further forward, the story changes, with much greater levels of occupant space, making for a luxurious cabin for passengers.

Design and functionality

BMW reckons that this next-generation EV features a lounge-like interior, and for once, the lounge description is not simply marketing speak. It has a similar feel to the little BMW i3 – clearly not in terms of space, but in terms of aesthetics and tone. It’s a clever design and one that feels impressive as soon as you climb aboard.

BMW iX xDrive40: Tech & Specifications

There are two specifications available for the xDrive40 model – Sport and M Sport. Included as standard are:

1. Heated front seats
2. 21-inch alloys
3. LED headlights
4. Automatic wipers and lights
5. BMW Live Cockpit Professional
6. Wireless phone charging
7. Reversing camera and parking assistant

As an electric flagship, the BMW iX is a departure from previous electric efforts. Heavy but luxurious, powerful but with a long range, the iX clearly aims to be a large SUV though with an electric powertrain. It’s not as novel as the i3, or will sell as well as the i4, but the iX is a spacious SUV that feels like it will comfortably cover long distances.

And how much is the road tax on a BMW iX? Use our Car Tax Calculator to find out.

All information above correct at time of publication. Official economy figures, pricing, and tax rates supplied by the manufacturer. Cost to charge based on 0-100% charge at home on a tariff of 16 p/kWh.