BMW iX

Autocar's road test praises the iX as a new benchmark in the luxury electric SUV class, awarding 4.5 stars out of 5. The xDrive50's large battery provides a WLTP range of up to 380 miles, and real-world testing shows efficient, relaxed cruising. Ride comfort is excellent, and the cabin is quiet and premium. The iX handles with surprising agility given its size, helped by rear-wheel steering. Criticism focuses on the controversial grille design, lack of physical controls, and expensive options. Autocar concludes the iX is the most convincing expression of BMW's electric future, recommending the xDrive50 ahead of rivals like the Audi e-tron and Mercedes-Benz EQC.

Motor1 reviewed the range-topping BMW iX M60 and scored it 8 out of 10. The M60's 610 hp with Launch Control propels the SUV from 0 to 60 mph in about 3.6 seconds, yet the car remains calm and refined. Testers praise the adaptive air suspension, superb sound insulation, and fast-charging capability. The minimalist interior uses recycled materials without feeling cheap. Negatives include the massive curb weight, polarizing exterior, and high price. The xDrive50 is considered the smarter buy, while the iX as a whole is a technological tour de force and a seriously comfortable luxury EV, though not a hardcore driver's machine.

Edmunds rates the BMW iX as one of the most comfortable EVs they've tested, giving it particularly high scores for ride quality, cabin quietness, and rear-seat space. The test team measured a 0-60 mph time of 4.0 seconds in the xDrive50 (with the optional 22-inch wheels), which they consider more than sufficient for daily use, though they note the more powerful M60 model is quicker. The review highlights the panoramic glass roof with optional electrochromic dimming, the standard panoramic camera system, and the well-designed interior materials that include sustainably sourced woods and recycled fabrics. Edmunds deducts points for the awkwardly shaped steering wheel and the fact that the base model doesn't include a heat pump, which reduces cold-weather range. Despite these quibbles, they recommend the iX over the Audi e-tron and Mercedes EQS SUV for its superior driver engagement and more cohesive packaging, giving it a strong 8.0 out of 10 overall.

Motor Trend's review focuses on the iX as a technological showcase, praising its 250 kW DC fast-charging capability that can add 90 miles of range in 10 minutes (on a 350-kW station). The team recorded a 3.9-second 0-60 time for the xDrive50, which they describe as "effortless" due to the instant torque and near-silent power delivery. They further commend the adaptive recuperation system that automatically adjusts brake energy regeneration based on navigation data and radar sensing, which reduces driver stress in stop-and-go traffic. The interior is lauded for its minimalism and use of premium materials, though the reviewer notes that the crystal glass iDrive controller feels fragile. The main demerits are the steep base price (over $80K) and the fact that despite its size, the cargo area is only slightly larger than a Tesla Model Y's. Motor Trend concludes that the iX excels at being a quiet, opulent cruiser rather than a sports SUV, and while it's not the most efficient EV, it's among the most relaxing to drive.

MotorTrend’s testing of the BMW iX underscores its dual personality: a serene luxury cruiser with surprisingly capable dynamics for its size. In instrumented tests, MotorTrend measured asphalt-ripping acceleration, citing the iX M60’s 3.6-second run to 60 mph, which puts it alongside high-performance muscle EVs. The chassis, equipped with rear-axle steering and adaptive air springs, rotates readily into corners, disguising some of its bulk. Yet MotorTrend cautions that the brake pedal feel is inconsistent, particularly under regen blending, requiring acclimatization. Practically speaking, the iX offers a flat floor and a frunk, bringing good storage flexibility, while the rear seats recline manually for added comfort on long trips. The tried-and-tested iDrive system remains one of the easiest luxury infotainment platforms to use, with crisp graphics and a responsive touchscreen. MotorTrend appreciates the standard features across the range, including heated seats, a heated steering wheel, ambient lighting, and a panoramic glass roof, which boost perceived value. However, they note that the iX’s exterior styling is divisive, and the ride can occasionally feel busy on badly broken surfaces despite air suspension. Charging speed tops out at 200 kW, which is slower than some 350-kW adversaries, but real-world charging sessions remain respectable. Overall, MotorTrend considers the BMW iX strong first effort for BMW’s dedicated EV architecture: it’s fast, comfortable, and tech-heavy, albeit not without quirks, earning a rating that places it near the top of the luxury electric SUV class.