Overview: 2023 BMW iX

The 2023 BMW iX SUV offers a glimpse into the company's electric future, boasting a stylish design and ample space similar to the popular X5. The all-wheel drive is powered by two electric motors, producing 516 hp in the xDrive50 and an impressive 610 hp in the M60. With a large battery pack, the iX boasts an estimated driving range of over 300 miles per charge. Inside, the cabin is spacious and adorned with high-quality materials, showcasing a futuristic design that features a large digital dashboard with BMW's iDrive infotainment system. The system is controlled by a sleek rotary knob on the center console. Competing with other all-electric rivals such as the Audi e-tron and the Tesla Model X, the iX is poised to make a statement in the market, even against new challengers like the Fisker Ocean and the Rivian R1S.

Price and Variants: 2023 BMW iX

For the 2023 model year, there are exciting updates in store. The new M60 model has been added to the lineup, featuring an impressive all-electric powertrain that delivers 610 horsepower and a driving range of up to 290 miles. This model also comes equipped with an air suspension that adjusts to sporty driving. Additionally, the Convenience, Dynamic Handling, and Luxury packages have been combined into one comprehensive package, known as the Ultimate package. In terms of pricing and recommendations, the xDrive50 is priced at $85,095, while the M60 comes with a heftier price tag of $109,895. While the M60 boasts faster performance and longer driving range, we suggest sticking with the xDrive50 as it offers the same driving range at a significantly lower price point. Ultimately, the choice between the two comes down to personal preference and budget.

Power and Performance: 2023 BMW iX

There are two versions of the iX available, with varying power and performance capabilities. The first model, the xDrive50, utilizes a pair of electric motors that work together to produce an impressive 516 horsepower, with all-wheel drive as a standard feature. In our assessments, the iX xDrive50 accelerated from 0 to 60 mph in only 4.0 seconds. For those seeking a more high-performance option, the M60 model offers a remarkable 610 horsepower, which we estimate can propel the mid-size SUV from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.2 seconds. The entry-level xDrive50 offers optional features such as an adjustable air suspension and a rear-wheel-steering system, while these features come standard on the M60. During our initial test drive of the xDrive50 model, we found it to be incredibly powerful, surprisingly energy-efficient, with agile handling and a smooth ride.

Range, Charging and Battery: 2023 BMW iX

The iX is equipped with a sizable 105.2-kWh battery pack, delivering an estimated range of up to 324 miles on a single charge according to the EPA. Interestingly, during our testing at a constant 75-mph highway speed, the iX managed to achieve a range of 290 miles, which is quite impressive considering highway driving usually diminishes an EV's range significantly. Similarly, the M60 model with a 610-hp engine also achieved the same 290-mile range in our test. In addition to its remarkable range, the iX offers standard DC fast charging capability, allowing for a quick recharge time of 35 minutes from 10 percent to 80 percent battery capacity using a 200-kW connection. BMW has collaborated with EVgo to provide iX drivers with a public charging network, but the vehicle is also compatible with other popular charging networks and can be charged using a Level 2 home charging station.

Interior: 2023 BMW iX

The Bimmer SUV shares a similar size with BMW's mid-size X5 and X6 crossovers and boasts a spacious passenger and cargo area. The iX's interior features a sleek and contemporary design, equipped with cutting-edge technology such as a large curved touchscreen instrument panel and a hexagonal-shaped steering wheel. BMW also offers a unique panoramic sunroof with electrochromic shading as an optional feature, which is only available in a few vehicles. The power front seats are heated and include built-in speakers for the iX's sound system. Additionally, customers can choose between faux-leather, genuine leather, or a Loft textile seat fabric option, made from microfiber cloth.

Infotainment and Connectivity: 2023 BMW iX

The iX by BMW was initially released with the iDrive 8 infotainment software, but it has now been updated to the newer iDrive 8.5 through a free over-the-air update. This software allows for personalized menu and graphics customization, and a voice-activated assistant. The dashboard design of the iX features a large 14.9-inch infotainment display and a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster, which enhances the overall tech-forward feel of the car. Standard connectivity features include Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, as well as a Wi-Fi hotspot with 5G cellular connection provided by BMW. The iX comes equipped with an 18-speaker Harman/Kardon stereo system, while an optional 30-speaker Bowers & Wilkins setup is also available.

Safety and Warranty: 2023 BMW iX

The BMW iX is equipped with a wide range of safety and driver-assistance features to ensure a safe driving experience. These include parking sensors, automatic high-beam headlamps, lane-keeping assist systems, and autonomous emergency braking, which comes with pedestrian detection. For detailed information on the iX's safety ratings, you can visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites. The iX also offers several key safety features, such as standard lane-departure warning with lane-keeping assist and available adaptive cruise control with semi-autonomous driving mode. Furthermore, the iX comes with the same warranty coverage as BMW's i4 sedan, which includes a limited warranty covering four years or 50,000 miles, a powertrain warranty covering four years or 50,000 miles, and an eight-year or 100,000-mile warranty for electric vehicle components. Additionally, all new BMWs come with a complimentary three-year maintenance plan covering up to 36,000 miles.