The 2023 Bmw Ix xDrive50 bursts onto the scene as one of BMW’s flagship electric vehicles, marking a significant step into the all-electric SUV market. Alongside the i4 sedan, the iX represents BMW’s commitment to a future powered by electrons. This isn’t just an electric version of an existing SUV; the iX xDrive50 is built from the ground up as an EV, showcasing bold design choices and cutting-edge technology. While it undeniably delivers in terms of driving dynamics, luxurious comfort, and impressive range, some of its design elements and tech interfaces might raise eyebrows. Let’s delve into the details of this electric SUV that’s as intriguing as it is unconventional.
Electrifying Performance and Powertrain of the 2023 iX xDrive50
The heart of the 2023 BMW iX xDrive50 is its potent all-wheel-drive electric powertrain. BMW engineers have equipped the front axle with a 190-kilowatt electric motor and the rear with a more powerful 230-kW unit. This dynamic duo combines to unleash a total output of 516 horsepower and a substantial 564 pound-feet of torque. This translates to exhilarating performance, propelling the iX from 0 to 60 mph in a mere 4.4 seconds. The sheer thrust of acceleration is captivating, pinning you to your seat as the electric motors deliver instant power. Beyond the impressive sprint times, the readily available torque makes everyday driving a joy. Merging onto highways or navigating city traffic becomes effortless, showcasing the responsiveness and refinement of this electric powertrain. It’s a well-rounded system that inspires confidence in every driving situation.
For those seeking even more adrenaline, BMW introduced the iX M60 for the 2023 model year. This performance variant elevates the power output to a staggering 610 horsepower, slashing the 0-to-60 mph time to just 3.6 seconds. While it might not outpace the blistering Tesla Model X Plaid, the iX M60 confidently competes with the Tesla Model Y Performance and the Ford Mustang Mach-E GT in the realm of high-performance electric SUVs.
Customizing Your Drive: My Modes and Regenerative Braking in the 2023 BMW iX
BMW understands that driving preferences are personal, and the 2023 iX offers a suite of customization options to tailor the driving experience. The My Modes system allows drivers to select between Personal, Sport, and Efficient modes, each subtly altering the vehicle’s character. These modes primarily adjust accelerator pedal sensitivity, influencing energy consumption, but also impact steering feel and other vehicle dynamics. Vehicles equipped with the optional Dynamic Handling package take customization a step further; Sport mode lowers the suspension by 0.4 inches, enhancing handling prowess for more spirited driving.
Adding another layer of sensory engagement, the iX features optional Iconic Sounds, a synthesized powertrain soundscape crafted by renowned film score composer Hans Zimmer. These artificial sounds, emitted through the vehicle’s speakers, dynamically respond to acceleration. Employing Shepard tones, an auditory illusion of perpetually rising pitch, the Iconic Sounds create a futuristic sensation of increasing speed. Sport mode intensifies the auditory experience with a deeper and more pronounced sound profile. For purists who prefer the serene silence of electric driving, Iconic Sounds can be easily disabled.
Regenerative braking is another key element in optimizing the iX’s driving dynamics and efficiency. The system offers four levels of regeneration, with the default being Adaptive Recuperation. This intelligent mode leverages navigation data, battery charge level, and proximity to preceding vehicles to dynamically adjust the level of regenerative braking when lifting off the accelerator. While intended to maximize energy recapture, the Adaptive Recuperation mode can sometimes feel inconsistent and less predictable in its deceleration behavior. For a more consistent feel, drivers can opt for static regeneration modes: Low, Medium, or High. Engaging B mode on the transmission selector, combined with high regeneration, enables true one-pedal driving. In this mode, lifting off the accelerator pedal slows the iX to a complete stop, eliminating the need to use the brake pedal in most driving situations – a favored feature among EV enthusiasts.
Range and Charging: How Far and How Fast Does the 2023 BMW iX Go?
Powering the 2023 BMW iX is a substantial 111.5-kilowatt-hour battery pack, with a usable capacity of 105.2 kWh. Interestingly, the EPA provides varying range estimates based on wheel size. The most efficient configuration, equipped with 20-inch wheels, achieves an EPA-estimated range of 324 miles. Stepping up to 21-inch wheels slightly reduces the range to 305 miles. Counterintuitively, opting for larger 22-inch wheels boosts the range back up to 315 miles. This anomaly is likely attributed to the 275/40R22 tire’s stiffer sidewall, which may reduce rolling resistance enough to compensate for the increased wheel mass.
Real-world testing reveals that the iX generally meets or slightly exceeds EPA range estimates. One test run, starting with an 80% charge, covered 209 miles before requiring a recharge with 17% battery remaining. This performance is commendable, especially considering the test route included spirited driving in Sport mode on winding mountain roads.
When it’s time to replenish the battery, the iX supports DC fast charging at up to 195 kW. While not as rapid as some competitors like the Hyundai Ioniq 5 or Porsche Taycan, it’s still impressively quick. At a compatible DC fast-charging station, the iX can gain 90 miles of range in approximately 10 minutes or charge from 10% to 80% in around 40 minutes. BMW has partnered with EVgo, providing iX buyers and lessees with $100 in charging credits at their network of stations.
For convenient and cost-effective charging, Level 2 home charging is also supported. The iX can draw up to 11 kW on a Level 2 charger, enabling a full charge from empty in approximately 11 hours.
Ride and Handling: Comfort and Dynamics of the 2023 iX
Despite its substantial size, the 2023 BMW iX manages to deliver a surprisingly agile and comfortable driving experience. BMW engineers employed extensive lightweight materials, including an aluminum and carbon-fiber composite chassis and aluminum suspension components, to mitigate weight gain. However, even with these measures, the iX still tips the scales at a hefty 5,769 pounds in certain configurations. Fortunately, the majority of the weight is concentrated low in the chassis, thanks to the battery pack’s placement beneath the floor. This low center of gravity significantly contributes to the iX’s composed cornering behavior, allowing for a more comfort-oriented suspension tuning.
The iX features a double-wishbone front and five-link rear suspension setup, effectively absorbing bumps and road imperfections, even when equipped with the optional 22-inch wheels. BMW’s lift-related dampers, hydraulic shock absorbers that adapt damping force based on wheel travel, further enhance ride comfort.
The tested model included the optional Dynamic Handling package, which adds an auto-leveling air suspension. This system maintains a level ride height, beneficial for towing trailers up to 5,500 pounds (though towing will undoubtedly impact range). The air suspension automatically lowers at higher speeds and in Sport mode to improve stability and can be manually raised at low speeds for an additional 0.8 inches of ground clearance. Rear-wheel steering, also part of the Dynamic Handling package, enhances both low-speed maneuverability and high-speed stability.
Design Dilemmas: The Polarizing Exterior and Gorgeous Interior of the BMW iX 2023
The design of the 2023 BMW iX is arguably its most contentious aspect. The exterior styling is undeniably polarizing, particularly the front fascia with its oversized kidney grille. The sharp, L-shaped trim elements on the front bumper seem somewhat disjointed from the overall design language, contributing to a less-than-cohesive aesthetic. While subjective, the exterior design may not appeal to all, though certain angles can reveal more flattering perspectives.
However, the controversial grille hides a clever piece of technology: it’s constructed from a self-healing polymer. Minor scratches or rock chips on its glossy surface will gradually disappear over time, especially with heat exposure. The BMW roundel above the grille cleverly conceals the washer fluid reservoir, a functional touch necessitated by the iX’s hood being designed for service technician access only – meaning no front trunk (frunk). Despite the grille’s divisive looks, this self-healing feature is an innovative touch, arguably more refined than Mercedes-Benz’s somewhat awkward fender-mounted washer fluid filler on their EQS and EQE models.
Stepping inside the iX reveals a dramatically different story. The interior is a masterclass in modern automotive luxury and design. The cabin is adorned with high-quality materials that are both visually stunning and pleasing to the touch. Crystal-cut glass elements for the iDrive controller and seat adjustments, along with unique wood veneer capacitive buttons on the center console, elevate the sense of premium craftsmanship (these are optional). The supportive bucket seats offer a comfortable and upright seating position, providing excellent visibility throughout the airy cabin. An optional electrochromic glass roof further enhances the feeling of spaciousness, tinting at the touch of a button to manage sunlight.
iDrive 8 and Technology: Navigating the 2023 BMW iX’s Infotainment
The 2023 BMW iX debuts the latest generation of BMW’s infotainment system, iDrive 8. This system represents both advancements and some steps back compared to its predecessor. iDrive 8 is visually striking, centered around a pair of expansive displays that appear to float above the dashboard. A 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster is positioned in front of the driver, while a larger 14.9-inch touchscreen serves as the main infotainment hub. The system is responsive and visually appealing, boasting high-resolution graphics and customizable themes inspired by nature.
However, the user interface of iDrive 8 presents some usability challenges. The main menu is cluttered with a profusion of small icons, arranged in a seemingly disorganized manner. The sheer number of icons, nearly 30 on the home screen, and their flat organizational structure can make navigation cumbersome, especially while driving. For example, separate icons for FM and SiriusXM radio, instead of a unified audio sources menu, contribute to the visual clutter. While users can customize the menu layout and create a favorites menu for quick access, the initial out-of-the-box experience lacks the intuitive organization of iDrive 7. The learning curve for mastering iDrive 8 is steeper than previous iterations.
On the positive side, the iX offers seamless wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, with quick pairing technology simplifying initial setup. The cabin is well-equipped with six USB Type-C charging ports (two front, four rear) and thoughtfully designed slots for mobile phones in the center console and door panels.
Pricing and Competition: Positioning the 2023 BMW iX in the Electric SUV Market
The 2023 BMW iX xDrive50 enters the market with a starting price of $85,095, including destination charges. The test vehicle, equipped with options like premium leather upholstery, upgraded seats, 22-inch wheels, and the comprehensive Ultimate package, carried a sticker price of $101,075.
This pricing places the BMW iX in the premium segment of the electric SUV market. It’s notably more expensive than the Audi e-tron SUV and Sportback, but it also offers superior performance and a significantly longer range. The iX occupies a price point between the Tesla Model Y and the larger, more expensive Tesla Model X.
Conclusion
The 2023 BMW iX xDrive50 excels in delivering a compelling electric driving experience. Its potent powertrain, impressive range, and refined handling make it a standout in the electric SUV category. However, BMW’s bold design choices, particularly the exterior styling, and some aspects of the iDrive 8 infotainment system may not resonate with all buyers. While the driving dynamics and luxurious interior are undeniable strengths, the iX’s overall appeal is a blend of exhilarating performance and potentially polarizing design elements. Ultimately, the 2023 BMW iX is a significant and innovative addition to BMW’s electric lineup, but its success may hinge on individual preferences regarding its unconventional styling and technological interface.
