While the hubbub surrounding electric motoring may have diminished slightly, the BMW range still maintains a solid lineup of models which incorporate some form of electric drive, whether they be a PHEV (Plug In Hybrid) or BEV (Battery Electric Vehicle).
Either way, many of these variants endowed with BMW’s electric “i” emblem have been proving their worth considerably, which brings us on to one of the latest BMWs to join these ranks. Called the iX1, it is the zero-emission variant of the X1 SUV and it represents one of the most cost-effective ways into new all-electric BMW ownership.
The iX1 range is split into two spec levels with the entry point iX1 eDrive20 xLine getting the ball rolling at $86,900. However, the car we are focusing on here is the one with all the fruit, the flagship iX1 xDrive 30 M Sport at $96,000.
The M Sport shares the same 67kWh battery pack with the xLine but the addition of dual electric motors means power rises from the standard combined 150kW to 230kW and torque from 250Nm to 494Nm. Zero to 100kph is rated in 5.6 seconds which isn’t hanging around and energy consumption sits at a claimed 18.3kWh/100km. There is also Adaptive-M suspension tucked away underneath and the battery itself comes with an 8-year/160,000km warranty.
The iX1 xDrive 30 M sport is good for around 440 kms of range and is compatible with both AC and DC fast charging. Plug in to a 130kW fast charger and you will have anywhere up to 80 per cent in around 28 minutes or so.
On the outside you do have to concentrate to distinguish this X1 is of the “i” fraternity. However, it isn’t long before you spot those tell-tale signs of electrification, such as the sealed-up grill and those “i” badges, naturally. The iX1 M Sport’s ability to fly under the radar also means its one of the most subtle looking of all BMWs to carry a M badge. Even the 19-inch V-spoke alloy wheels don’t draw much attention.
However, it still manages to have presence thanks to its edges and sharp lines, much like a freshly pressed suit. I also rather like its 4500mm length and 1865mm. Rather compact dimensions when you think about, which only aid in the iX1’s ability to traverse the urban jungle, but more on that in a tick.
Inside the classic mainstream BMW SUV dose of durable minimalism makes itself known. The seats are clothed in alcantara and something called “veganza.” Either way, they are supportive and offer decent levels of comfort. The chunky M Sport steering wheels is good to hold and all manner of driving and infotainment data is, in typical BMW fashion, crisp and clear to observe.
One can view these via the iX1’s BMW Live Cockpit Professional with its 10.25-inch instrument cluster and 10.7-inch infotainment display. Louis from Christchurch BMW also got me sorted via the MYBMW app which allowed me to perform a smattering of features including turning the air-con on in the morning from my phone.
There are plenty of other M embossed bits and bobs throughout the cabin and there is ample space fore and aft for passengers. Those in the rear may find things a tad firm in the seatbacks but a good level of head and legroom. At 490L, the boot is rather capacious but thanks to the battery and motors underneath, the boot floor is not as low as it could have been. Mind you, this no real hardship as it actually aids in the ease of loading and unloading.
Wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, wireless charging, 4x USB Type C ports, adaptive LED headlights, automatic tailgate, BMW intelligent personal assistant and sat nav all come as standard and you get all manner of driving assistance kit as standard too, such as a 360-reversing camera, remote 3D view, park assist and active part distance control.
However, the iX1 M Sport gets further equipment by way of “Driving Assistance Professional.” This package includes features such as front/rear cross traffic alert, lane departure warning, active cruise control, lane keep assist and steering and lane control assist to name a few.
My test car was also fully stocked thanks to the $5,500 optional Innovations Package which contained steering wheel heating, a panoramic sunroof, heated massaging drivers seat and a mighty fine Harman/Kardon sound system which allowed the Steve Miller Band to come through just fine, and then some.
Around town those aforementioned dimensions mean the iX1 never fields unwieldy in traffic or on tight corners. That extra torque means you can saunter along at a decent rate with little to no jarring or tyre roar.
Having the boost paddle to give 10 seconds of extra electric grunt is a welcome addition to the iX1’s arsenal while undertaking a motorway haul. I remember first experiencing this feature in the rather rapid i5 M60 and finding it quite addictive. Its not quite as addictive in the iX1 but still dead handy when you need to dispense the odd loping lane-hogger.
In Sport mode it even manages the corners well, keeping things tight and under control. Naturally you get the merest suggestion of body roll but for a car like this, its not bad. The steering is also direct and there are good levels of regenerative braking.
The iX1 is very much a dark horse in BMW electric stable. It will certainly tick many boxes of those wanting a dynamic driving, well equipped and contemporary electric SUV which does everything rather well. Personally, I would cross that small void between the base model and the M-Sport and fork out the extra $10,000 for the latter. When you consider the gains in performance and those extra tech features, especially those of safety, it just makes sense.
All in all, BMW have certainly done well with this one.
RATING: 7.5/10
