BMW iX xDrive60 M Sport (2025 - )

When we think of BMW, premium quality, brand reliability, exceptional handling, and outstanding performance immediately come to mind, writes Tim Barnes-Clay.

Up until the turn of the millennium, the 3, 5, and 7 Series saloons were the mainstay of the range – a genuine BMW was synonymous with a refined saloon, after all.

However, for quite some time, BMW has offered far more than just saloons.

The brand introduced estate cars – known as Touring models – within the 3 and 5 Series lineup, providing added practicality without sacrificing the elegance of the saloons.

The rise in popularity of SUVs changed the landscape, and soon BMW entered the fray with the X5, followed by the X3, and an array of others.

Then began the shift towards electrification, which kicked off with the i3, a compact MPV that was quite ahead of its time when launched in 2013.

Now, electrification is a key feature across BMW’s entire range.

At its release, the iX SUV was particularly notable as it was the first fully electric BMW designed from the ground up since the i3.

Although there are now equivalent electric versions of several other models in BMW’s lineup, the iX continues to stand out.

While it was a pioneering model upon its debut, competitors have since caught up, prompting BMW to give it a facelift in the hope of reclaiming its competitive edge.

The iX boasts an ultra-modern aesthetic, although that doesn’t automatically equate to being visually appealing.

Critics argue that the integrated kidney grille – which effectively serves as a blank panel – bears a resemblance to a pig's snout, while enthusiasts contend that it appears fierce and athletic, as if ready for action.

In truth, both perspectives could hold merit; the streamlined headlights lend an aggressive scowl to an already robust front end.

Prominent air intakes dominate the edges, and a sizable lower grille, cleverly split in the centre, gives the impression that it could consume lesser vehicles whole.

The sides present a smooth profile, punctuated only by a crease that defines the wheel arches, while a black line traverses the rear pillar, linking the rear windscreen to the side windows.

Opinions on the rear design are also mixed, with the slim, horizontal taillights potentially perceived as oversized and overly nestled against the surrounding elements, undermining coherence in the overall design.

Despite its absence of a traditional combustion engine, BMW has artfully crafted large outlines towards the bottom, simulating the appearance of substantial tailpipes.

The level of aggression varies among models, with the Sport, M Sport, and high-performance M70 variant showcasing subtly different designs, particularly at the front.

Ultimately, calling it beautiful might be a stretch. A pig in a wig? Possibly - but then again, beauty often lies in the eyes of the beholder.

Notable updates from the pre-facelift version include a reworked kidney grille frame, enhancements to the LED headlight elements, and an increase in bodywork finished in the vehicle’s colour, reducing reliance on black cladding.

Regarding technology, most of the ‘wow factor’ is inside. For example, although the dual-unit dashboard, featuring both a large digital instrument display and an even bigger infotainment screen, has become quite commonplace, it still stands out impressively.

Furthermore, BMW has long been renowned for having the finest infotainment system, and the latest BMW Operating System is a delight to navigate. It provides a high-resolution display, exceptionally sharp graphics, and a highly responsive interface that operates without lag, making it intuitive.

Even better is the retention of the rotary dial, which appears to be fading from many other vehicles - it's more convenient to use while on the move than tapping at a touchscreen.
 

The BMW iX may not technically be a performance SUV, but its M70 variant boasts a thrilling 0-62 mph time of just 3.8 seconds. However, we’ll focus on the more budget-friendly standard models.

The Sport trim features an xDrive45 powertrain, hitting 0-62 mph in 5.1 seconds, while the M Sport trim offers either the same, or there’s the faster xDrive60 on test here, which achieves this in 4.6 seconds. These options should satisfy those craving performance.

The iX cleverly utilises aluminium and carbon fibre to reduce battery reliance and enhance range. The xDrive60 driven for this review is impressively quick and feels quite agile, thanks to a low centre of gravity and thoughtful engineering that improves stability and cornering.

Although it’s a hefty SUV, the iX handles well, with responsive steering. BMW has tuned the suspensions for both the xDrive45 and xDrive60 to complement their specific powertrains, ensuring a reassuring drive.

The iX is surprisingly easy to manage in urban and rural settings. It may not manoeuvre like a BMW M3 or a 1 Series hatchback, but it's accessible and comfortable, aided by its air suspension.

The regenerative braking is adjustable for one-pedal driving, and with practice, it becomes seamless, contributing to a hassle-free driving experience.
 

The seats and steering wheel offer a good range of adjustment, making establishing a comfortable driving position straightforward. This is particularly convenient in our test vehicle, as electric adjustment is standard on the M Sport trim.

While you sit at a relatively elevated height, the iX doesn’t have the commanding driving position typical of many larger SUVs despite its considerable size.

That said, forward visibility is good due to a large windscreen. The pillars are slimmer than some competitors, too - and the side windows extend well forward.

However, rearward visibility is not as accommodating. It is hampered by the rear seat headrests, thicker pillars, and a shallower rear windscreen, which significantly limits sightlines.

Parking sensors alleviate this concern, and the standard rear-view camera can also be upgraded for those willing to spend a bit more.

The front cabin boasts ample headroom and legroom, ensuring that taller drivers can easily get comfortable.

The rear seats are also spacious, providing generous legroom and sufficient headroom, thanks to only a gentle slope in the roofline. Accommodating three adults in the back is manageable without sacrificing shoulder space.

The boot offers 500 litres of space, which can expand to 1,750 litres when the rear seats are folded down in a 40:20:40 configuration. These can be stowed simply by pressing a button in the boot.

Interior storage is generous, with large door bins, a spacious glove compartment, two storage cubbies, a wireless charging tray, and two good-sized cup holders.
 

Our xDrive60 test vehicle charges from 10% to 80% in 35 minutes, achieving a peak charging speed of 195kW. Its range is an official 426 electric miles. Fab, eh? In the real world, expect less.

The xDrive45 features a smaller battery and a slightly slower maximum charge rate yet still manages a similar charging time of 34 minutes at 175kW.

Both models come with 11kW home charging capability, which means that a full charge from 0% to 100% will take approximately nine and three-quarter hours for the xDrive45 and eleven and a quarter hours for the xDrive60.

The iX is certainly a desirable option for company car use, as it falls into the lowest bracket for Benefit in Kind tax. However, many other electric vehicles also qualify, providing plenty of alternatives.

On the reliability front, BMW seems to be regaining its stance and is on track to restore the solid reputation it once held as a producer of dependable cars after facing a challenging period. Nonetheless, it still lags behind East Asian manufacturers like Kia and Hyundai in terms of warranty offerings.

Speaking of warranties, buyers receive a three-year unlimited mileage guarantee, and the battery is covered by an eight-year, 100,000-mile warranty.

Additionally, servicing plans are available upon purchase, along with options for extended warranties.
 

Undoubtedly, the BMW iX stands out as remarkable in nearly every aspect - although its appearance is bound to spark the most discussion.

The vehicle possesses a refined, premium interior that lives up to BMW’s esteemed reputation and provides a sophisticated driving experience. Considering its size, it delivers exceptional handling alongside impressive straight-line speed and comfort.

With practicality, efficiency, an industry-leading infotainment system, and enhancements that effectively reclaim its competitive edge, it raises the question: What’s not to appreciate?

However, many of its most innovative features are optional extras, and their costs can escalate quite rapidly.

We recommend the air suspension, yet once you peruse the options list, you may be inclined to spend even more.

For this reason, we suggest opting for the entry-level xDrive45, which offers ample performance, range, and charging speeds. The xDrive60 serves as a satisfactory compromise for those hesitant to pay for the top-tier M70.

Ultimately, the iX represents a significant advancement in producing the next generation of SUVs, clearly outpacing anything Audi and Mercedes-Benz offers.