The BMW iX ready for series production
The BMW iX is ready for series production and is due to arrive on the global streets very soon. The brand claims that the iX will have a fresh take on the Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV) concept and aims at combining luxury with space. The iX will be launched with the choice of two model variants. Both models will come equipped with an electric all-wheel-drive system. The iX xDrive50 will produce a combined output of 385 kW, while the iX xDrive40 produces 240kW. The latest battery cell technology will be found in the iX, which results in WLTP-calculated ranges of up to 630 kilometres in the iX xDrive50 and up to 425 kilometres in the iX xDrive4.
The body structure, design principle, and chassis tuning of the BMW iX have all been perfectly geared to blend excellent ride comfort with sporty handling characteristics. The standard chassis technology for the BMW iX will comprise of a double-wishbone front axle, five-link rear axle, lift-related dampers, and an electric steering system with Servotronic function and a variable ratio. The iX will come standard with 20-inch light-alloy wheels, with a choice of either 21-inch and 22-inch Air Performance Wheels being optional.
The iX’s pioneering character will shine through its elegantly poised exterior design. Some the standout features will include an almost completely blanked-off BMW kidney grille, which features an integrated camera as well as radar sensors. The interior will be as luxurious as its exterior and will feature a range of premium features. The cabin will offer plenty of legroom, with its newly developed seats and integral head restraints setting a luxurious ambience. The iX will come BMW’s curved display, a hexagonal steering wheel as well as a frameless projector integration for the optional HeadUp Display. The interior will be offered in three different trims, all being characterised as its own unique character. The automatic climate control system in the BMW iX will come with a nanofibre filter to purify the air and new touchscreen controls.
Also making its way to the iX will be the latest generation of the iDrive display and operating system. It will be based on the new BMW Operating System 8 and was designed with a clear focus on the touchscreen operation of the BMW Curved Display and the verbal communication of the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant. The BMW Curved Display will be fully digital and will be formed by a 12.3-inch information display and a control display with a screen diagonal of 14.9 inches, all of which are housed behind a glass surface. A wide range of new technology will be featured in the iX as well. It will come equipped with a new generation of sensors, a new software stack, and a powerful computing platform that will provide exceptional intelligence.
Also worth a look: the BMW Glc and the BMW M3.
FAQ
Q: What does the BMW iX cost in South Africa?
The BMW iX xDrive40 starts from around R1,850,000 in South Africa, while the more powerful iX xDrive50 will set you back approximately R2,200,000, making it a proper premium electric SUV that competes with the likes of the Mercedes EQS SUV.
Q: How far can the BMW iX travel on a single charge?
The BMW iX xDrive50 delivers up to 630 kilometres of WLTP range, while the xDrive40 manages 425 kilometres, which means you can easily drive from Johannesburg to Durban without stopping to charge.
Q: Is the BMW iX worth buying over other electric SUVs?
The BMW iX offers excellent build quality, impressive range, and luxury features that justify its price tag, especially if you want a premium electric SUV with proper all-wheel drive and cutting-edge technology.
Q: What's the difference between the BMW iX xDrive40 and xDrive50?
The iX xDrive50 produces 385 kW compared to the xDrive40's 240 kW, offers 630 km range versus 425 km, and costs about R350,000 more, making it the flagship model for those who want maximum performance and range.
Q: How does the BMW iX compare to petrol SUVs like the X5?
The BMW iX offers instant torque, silent operation, and zero emissions while matching the X5's luxury and space, though it costs more upfront but saves money on fuel and maintenance over time.
Should You Buy It?
Yes, the BMW iX is absolutely worth buying if you have R1,850,000 to R2,200,000 and want South Africa's most advanced electric luxury SUV. The iX xDrive50 at R2,200,000 delivers 630 km range, 385 kW power, and flagship luxury that puts it ahead of competitors like the Mercedes EQC and Audi e-tron. For those wanting to enter BMW's electric future without breaking the bank completely, the iX xDrive40 at R1,850,000 still offers 425 km range and premium features. This is the electric SUV to buy if you want cutting-edge technology, impressive range, and the kind of luxury that makes every drive feel special, plus you'll never queue for petrol again.
