Discover the impressive performance, cutting-edge technology, and exceptional efficiency of the BMW iX xDrive 40. Read our comprehensive BMW iX xDrive 40 review to learn more about this innovative electric vehicle.
The BMW iX xDrive 40 is the car that takes the next step in electrified BMW cars. It was in 1972 when the company took its first steps into electrification, but we can begin its serious commitment in 2014, with the i3. Since then, one million electric cars have been sold.
The next step is to electrify all major segments by 2023, reaching a quarter of sales by 2025. Then MINI launches its latest combustion model. By 2030, half of sales are expected to be 100% electric cars.
It is clear that the BMW iX xDrive 40 2022 that we have had the opportunity to drive will no longer be the model that contributes the most volume. It is a large electric SUV, but it opens up a lot of new features in all areas. So much that we could drive it in the morning, we could hardly cover it all.
New platform for this drive system. Fifth-generation batteries (which BMW claims controls nickel and cobalt mining and uses only renewable energy to make the cells). Saving 45% material compared to a conventional SUV. Revolution in the infotainment system. New design… let’s start there.
In-Depth BMW iX xDrive 40 Review: Performance
Exterior
The BMW iX is a paradigm shift at BMW and you can see it when you see it. The aesthetic evolution from what is known in the brand is enormous. The guide was the BMW iNext prototype we met in 2018, which explored the concept of relaxation, a place where you feel like spending time.
It’s slightly lower than an X5, measuring 1,695mm (-50mm) in length, despite a 202mm ground clearance, which is somewhat less than the brand’s premium SUV. Also narrower, measuring 1,965mm (-37mm). Sure, it’s longer, nothing less than 4,953 mm, with a whopping 3000mm wheelbase (25mm more than the X5 we compared it to).
At the front, there are two features that characterize the model. To begin with, the closed grill, with the reinterpretation of the kidneys. The material in which it is made is curious, a layer of polyurethane that is able to repair itself from minor frictions (such as that of stones that jump). And then the narrow headlights, the most beautiful a BMW has ever driven. They have LED technology as standard and laser as an option.
On the side, there are details such as the 20-inch wheels (21 in our unit and up to 22 in the range). The handles are flush with the body and this results in a drag coefficient of 0.25 Cd, very good for a vehicle of this type. What stands out most are the frameless doors, which are rarely seen on an SUV.
In the back, the width is particularly noticeable, especially at the height of the hips. Also some optics that are very fine, in the image and likeness of the front one.
Inside
There are several ideas that BMW wanted to emphasize in this car that will apparently lead to future models, at least of the highest range. Aware that sportiness is not pursued in these SUVs, the aim is to have the best comfort in the segment. Of course, the seats and the space meet each other in a remarkable way.
Another possibility to explore is technology. Admittedly, Mercedes is leading the way on this path. Now BMW is getting very close to the largest displays it has ever used. A 12.3-inch instrumentation, connected by a curved glass to that of the infotainment system, reaches 14.9 inches. Amazed at the integration of Apple Carplay, with the maps integrated into the instrument panel or the Head-Up Display.
There are hardly any buttons on the dashboard. Everything is controlled by the rotary knob on the console, which is made of glass and recognizing handwriting. The truth is that it is immediately impossible to analyze everything contained in the eighth generation of the new operating system in one morning.
Voice control has been greatly improved. It recognizes commands with natural language, it recognizes which passenger speaks to them and there is a certain proactivity. Better than Mercedes? I need to test it more thoroughly to decide. It now includes augmented reality in navigation (which is updated twice a week), and the Head-Up Display has been greatly improved.
It also offers details such as the external interior. Used to take pictures and selfies … or to drive the car in case of theft. It also says it will be the company’s first car with 5G connectivity. This way you can improve semi-autonomous driving.
They urged the brand that now to have a complete experience with the car, you must download (and use) the app My BMW. With the profile BMW ID, you have seats, steering wheel position and mirrors, navigation, shortcuts, driver assistance systems… all stored and memorized. And you can transfer it to other BMW cars.
The quality of the materials is superb. And the institutions too. Those of us who remember BMW from other decades, We would never guess the brand if we covered the logos, trust me.
And the hexagonal handlebars, perhaps the most controversial part of the design? Well, it didn’t convince me much either, but it wasn’t as awkward as I imagined. For maneuvers, of course, give me a round handlebar.
Behind, plenty of space and a high level of realization quality. Details like the USB-C ports on the back of the front seats show the audacity of this model.
Trunk
The truth is that the trunk capacity of the BMW iX is closer to that of an X3 than that of the X5 or X6, which corresponds to its size. Are 510 liters, quite far from what one of its main rivals, the Audi e-Tron, advertises, for example, 660 liters.
The standard electrically operated hatchback is not missing in a car of this caliber. There is also a space under the floor where you can carry the cables. Includes elastic side straps and hooks to secure the load.
As usual, the rear seat backs can be folded down to make room for 1,750 liters. It is an operation performed by pulling some levers on the side. If you need to wear something long and narrow without losing the squares at the ends, it’s possible to fold down just the middle part.
Equipment
The BMW iX xDrive 40 becomes one of the benchmarks in the manufacturer’s range. That is why the standard equipment is very complete. With 20 inch wheels, an alarm, keyless entry and start, seat heating, mood lighting, high beam assistant, Driving Assistant, Active Guard, proximity sensors front and rear, parking assistant, various connected services, DAB digital radio, wireless charging platform. ..
The top version, the xDrive50, also has integrated active steering and adaptive air suspension.
You can then upgrade equipment with three packages:
- Innovation: For 700 euros, add the Driving Assistant Professional, the laser lights, the Parking Assistant Plus, and the Natural Interaction.
- Exclusive: For 300 Euro adds a panoramic sunroof, tinted rear windows, charcoal interior trim, and other interior trim.
- Sport: Improve the aesthetics with 21-inch two-tone wheels and another exterior addition, for: 650 euros.
In addition, it is possible to have subscription options. The car already has the hardware installed and you subscribe to enjoy it only when you need it. Suspension, lighting, and connectivity are already offered. Later, driving assistants
The prices are not cheap, something you would expect in a Premium car, big and with this drive system. The iX xDrive40 we drive is part of 87,150 euros without options. In the case of the iX xDrive50, the rate rises to 104,150 euros.
We already have offers of the BMW iX in our new car section, published by official dealers of the brand. Keep in mind that the rates you see may include financing the car with BMW.
Engine
The new BMW iX starts with two variants. We were able to try the simplest, in this table we offer you the most important features:
| iX xDrive40 | IX xDrive 50 | |
| Current | 240 kW (326 hp) | 385 kW (523 hp) |
| Couple | 630 Nm | 765 Nm |
| 0-100 km/h | 6.1 seconds | 4.6 seconds |
| top speed | 200 km/h | 200 km/h |
| Battery | 76.6 kWh (71) | 111.5 kWh (105.2) |
| Autonomy | 425 km | 630 km |
Later there will be an M version, improved. But for a little over 100 km, let’s test the access version.
Behavior
If BMW wanted to make a car that was the champion of comfort with the iX, it has succeeded. It’s amazing how isolated you become from what’s happening outside. In that sense better than the Mercedes EQC (see test). I didn’t drive its other direct rival, the Audi e-tron, but my colleague Mario (see test), also pointed out that he excelled in this. Despite those frameless doors, no sound creeps in.
The weight is very high, no less than 2,440 kg. That might make us think it’s not fast, but not at all. Effortlessly gain speed in a flash, anytime. And that while he does so in absolute silence because you have to pay very close attention to the speedometer if you don’t want to be scared of the fine that can come at you.
It is therefore an excellent car to go on highways. However, in the route we made through the north of the Community of Madrid, we were able to analyze its behavior on highways. It didn’t seem as nimble as the Ford Mustang Match-E as there is more sluggishness in connecting corners, but the truth is that the second engine starts working as soon as there is some loss of traction (or you ask for more power at a specific moment) and you can move in these environments at good speeds.
The behavior of the car (and the appearance of paintings and lighting) varies depending on the driving mode you choose. They are reduced to three (Efficient, personal, and sporty), from less to more sportsmanship. Less than with other combustion models of the brand. They say that so that the change is more noticeable. I testify to this.
The car makes noises (made by the composer Hans Zimmer), in gears. If you don’t like it, you can unplug it, but it’s very successful. It can also be heard in delays. There are two levels of retention: conduction one pedal (maximum retention) and an “intelligent” mode that takes into account the traffic and the road on which it circulates. He had tried systems from other comparable brands. This one manages not to be too disturbing, it’s very well-tuned.
In terms of consumption, it was not a matter of time to measure them properly and in different environments. The on-board computer read 23.6 kWh/100 km after the ride, a high figure but not unreasonable for the maintained rhythms.
The BMW iX xDrive 40 is a car that shows you where the mid-term shots in BMW are going. His driving style may not be very BMW, at least not dynamic. It is a heavy car (only the battery weighs between 500-600 kg, depending on the version) and that weighs. And that highest-strength steel has been used in the B-pillar along with carbon fiber (like the i3).
They were looking for comfort and luxury and there it is of course faultless. There may be other models of the brand, (even electrified) that are looking for a little more dynamics. We are of course thinking of the BMW i4. And let’s face it… which SUV buyer like the iX is looking for curves around the rear?
The technological leap is huge. In connectivity, software, and security. It is a car already designed for level 3 of autonomy.
There are also innovations in the fifth generation of electric motors. And in the batteries and their charge. Technological details that will shape the future of the brand… which has already started.
