BMW IX Electric

Although there isn’t any revelation about the available trim levels or the standard features, we can expect the iX to be offered in just a single trim with a bunch of optional packages. But as far as we observed from the launch event, it is quite evident that BMW is coming up with many advanced tech features and an all-new shy-technology on board. 

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Although there isn’t any information about the trims and packages that the BMW iX would be offered, we are expecting a single trim level with few additional packages. We won’t recommend upgrading with optional packages as the features on offer should be enough to make your driving experience enjoyable.

While the exact range figures are yet to be released by EPA, BMW claims that the iX can shell out a mileage of 300 miles on the go. That is indeed a noteworthy figure, but not enough to dethrone the likes of Tesla. With new advanced charging technology, the SUV can charge up to 200 kW, going from 10-80% battery capacity within a time span of 40 minutes. 

With DCfast charging, the EV can shell out 75 miles range in a matter of 10 minutes of charging. BMW has also conjured up a new partnership with evGo to provide a widespread network of public charging stations for all its owners.

BMW’s predicted mileage for the iX crossover is well within Tesla's range. Although Tesla does offer a more powerful battery pack with more mileage, putting the iX out of the equation. Still, the Bimmer’s fast-charging capability is a blessing in disguise for urban commuters. 

Although the exterior design language of the iX may be shrouded in controversy, BMW gets all its notes right with its splendid interior design language. The goal here was to maximize interior space and keep the design minimalistic. The iX achieves that courtesy of its absence of a transmission tunnel, which contributes to more interior space. The seats offer a lounge-like ambiance with their heating and power adjustability functionalities. The faux leather and genuine leather upholsteries feel exquisite to the touch. Besides, BMW offers a special textile seat fabric named Loft which is made from microfiber and boasts of an epic comfort factor.

The audio system speakers are cleverly integrated inside the seats for the most serene aural experience. The Bimmer also gets the privilege of a large panoramic sunroof with electrochromic shading as an option. The iX will also be the first Bimmer to feature a hexagonally-shaped steering wheel. Passenger space and cargo capacity are expected to be similar to the X5 and X6 crossovers, although BMW hasn’t provided any official figures yet.

Since the official cargo figures haven’t been released yet by BMW, there is no scope for comparison between other rivals. However, since the iX is an amalgamation of the X5 and X6, we expect the EV’s interior and cargo dimensions to be in a similar range. Besides, the BMW iX has a host of suave interior features that distinguish it from the rest of the EVs, like-

• Panoramic sunroof with electrochromic shading
• 2.5-zone or 4-zone automatic climate control
• LED interior lighting
• Touch-sensitive surfaces in open-pore wood
• Controls with a polished crystal finish
• Dinamica microfiber surfaces for seats, doors, and center console- made from 50% recyclable polyester
• Door substructure made from 100% recyclable material
• Control panel made of sustainable FSC-certified wood

2022 BMW iX: Infotainment and Connectivity

BMW will introduce the next generation of its infotainment system, titled iDrive8 for specifically the iX SUV and i4 sedan. This all-new software will allow the user to customize his interface and graphics and they will also get a personal voice-activated assistant. A large curved 14.9-inch touchscreen will be centered around the dashboard, alongside a 12.3-inch digital gauge display for the driver. These high-tech gizmos are in sync with the car’s futuristic approach. 

Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are also a part of the tech suite, as well as a WiFi hotspot with 5G cellular data. An 18-speaker Harman Kardon audio system will be the standard entertainment hub. Although audiophiles have the option of a 30-speaker Bower & Wilkins sound system. Thus, the 2022 BMW iX’s tech suite will be spearheaded by the following cutting-edge gizmo-

• A curved 14.9-inch central display
• 12.3-inch digital gauge display
• Optional 30-speaker Bower & Wilkins sound system
• A newly designed gear selector
• Heads-up display
• Eight-generation iDrive infotainment

The grilles just keep getting bigger and bigger for each new car in the BMW lineup. Of these, the 2022 BMW iX is a prime example, with its gigantic kidney-shaped grille encroaching your line of sight when you view this SUV from the front. Whether this design language looks aesthetically pleasing is still a hot topic of debate among countless car enthusiasts. 

BMW tries to make amends by saying that the grille acts as an intelligence panel, by integrating camera and radar functions behind its tough polyurethane coating. The twin headlights flanking the grille is another bold statement by the German automaker. Overall, the iX can be considered as a mixture of the X5 and X6 SUVs, with a lower roofline than your conventional SUV. The rear end makes a statement too with its L-shaped taillights and diffuser.

Although the exterior dimensions for the iX aren’t yet released, we expect its length and width to be about the same as the BMW X5. In terms of height, the iX will be equivalent to the X6. Some of the exterior features include:

• Redesigned large kidney front grille
• L-shaped LED taillights
• LED headlights
• Standard 20-inch wheels with optional 21 and 22-inch wheels

While nothing much has been revealed about the iX’s Safety and Driver Assistance features, we could expect some of the most advanced tech features bundled with BMW’s exceptional “computing power”, as stated by the company. The large kidney front grille now houses a camera and radar, hence acting as an “intelligent panel”. Some of the standard features that we expect are:

• Anti-lock brakes
• LED Headlights and Taillights
• Self-cleaning rearview camera
• An automatic emergency braking system
• Forward collision/pedestrian detection
• Lane-keep assist
• Semi-autonomous driving mode

The 2022 BMW iX has a lofty price tag that is right in contention with the Tesla Model X. If we had to pick one, we would still drive off with the Tesla Model X for better overall value-for-money. The iX does seem a bit overpriced for its price tag, although it has its share of amazing gizmo and interior features. Further, the car’s exterior styling seems a bit overstyled, as most drivers today prefer minimalism over extravagant looks. Still, if you are an avid fan of BMW’s technological supremacy, the iX would be a good bet to witness the automaker’s transformation as it approaches a new era.