BMW iX1 Electric SUV Review- EXCLUSIVE

In many ways, the BMW iX1 is the spiritual successor to the bold i3 all-electric urban car that many would argue was ahead of its time. The iX1 takes BMW's learnings from the very well-engineered i3, the modern iX, and even the i7 flagship and converts them to practical requirements. It is a car that is first a BMW X1 and then an EV. And being able to pull that off in a compact package as a 'by-the-way' electric variant of the X1 model line is creditable. I'll explain why as you read on!

I am driving the car in the German countryside near the town of Altenburg. And I have the xDrive30, a fully loaded trim in the stunning Sanremo Green metallic finish—a colour I hope makes it to India on this model.

Exterior

The BMW iX1 boasts a striking visual resemblance to the conventional BMW X1 compact SUV, a feature that plays to its advantage given the specific market it aims to cater to. Its face closely resembles that of its predecessor, with subtle touches like the blue accent around the logo and the discreet "i" badge.

However, apart from these minor details, you wouldn't easily discern that this is a fully electric vehicle. But, as soon as I take it for a spin, there's no denying its electric nature.

Ride & Handling

Having extensively driven the iX, i4, and i7, I can confidently affirm that BMW's primary focus at the "i" division is to ensure that all these cars, above all, deliver that quintessential BMW driving experience. This emphasis on BMW's driving DNA is unmistakably evident in the iX1 as well. The iX1 seamlessly embodies the familiar traits of an X1, both in terms of its dynamic performance and the overall driving sensation.

BMW iX1 xDrive30 M Sport

Engaging sport mode in this electric SUV unleashes impressive speed, complemented by a rather cool sound. Although price considerations may arise, my time spent with this car, especially in comparison to the conventional ICE-powered X1 that I've driven extensively, leads me to believe that BMW India should expedite the arrival of the iX1. It's remarkably quick and fun.

This particular iX1 features xDrive, enhancing its overall dynamics with all-wheel drive capability. It's remarkable how closely it mirrors the driving experience of its petrol and diesel counterparts, despite the battery's presence at the bottom, which theoretically alters the driving dynamics significantly. However, the feel behind the wheel remains remarkably similar.

Interior & Features

However, the interior tells a different story. The electric SUV boasts an impressive array of features, including a Heads-Up Display (HUD) and a massive new interface that's becoming a standard feature across all BMW models. The interface is not only aesthetically pleasing with its high-quality graphics but also incorporates some nifty features carried over from the i7.

One of these features includes the captivating acoustic elements that accompany different drive modes. Switching to "Expressive," and yes, the Hans Zimmer soundtrack, borrowed from the i7, might be considered by some as a gimmick, but it undeniably adds a cool and distinctive touch that many buyers will appreciate. What's even better is that you also get unique sounds accompanying regenerative braking.

This fully loaded model includes massage seats in the front, adding to the overall comfort and luxury. Additionally, there's a lot going on in terms of connectivity and advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS).

Verdict

BMW has just launched the iX1 in India with a price tag of Rs. 66.90 lakh (ex-showroom, India). However, it faces tough competition from cars like the Volvo XC40 and C40 Recharge, as well as the Kia EV6, all of which are priced a few lakhs lower. The Hyundai Ioniq 5, in particular, comes in at a significantly lower price point. While the iX1 is a direct import, the pricing is reasonable, although I hoped for a slightly lower cost, perhaps around Rs. 7 lakh less.

Despite the price differential, the iX1 has a notable advantage when it comes to driving dynamics. Nevertheless, its competitors offer a few more features. The iX1 is brought to India as a Completely Built-Up (CBU) unit, and deliveries are set to commence by the end of October.

Globally, BMW is placing a big bet on the iX1 and anticipates a substantial portion of its sales to be attributed to this model. In the Indian luxury EV market, BMW already holds a leading position, and with the iX1 arriving at a more affordable price point, the company aims to solidify its dominance by catering to the price-sensitive segment of the luxury market.