Overview

BMW’s electrified future is previewed by the 2023 iX SUV, which offers similar space and practicality as the brand’s popular X5, but with cutting-edge flair. Two electric motors provide all-wheel drive and more-than-ample power—516-hp in the xDrive50 and a whopping 610-hp in the M60—while a large battery pack delivers enough juice for an estimated driving range of up to 300 miles per charge. The iX’s spacious interior is lined with fine materials and features a fancy, futuristic design; a large digital dashboard displays the future of BMW’s iDrive infotainment system and is controlled by a cool see-through rotary knob on the center console. The iX has what it takes to compete with established all-electric rivals such as the Audi e-tron and the Tesla Model X, and should stack up well against newcomers such as the Fisker Ocean and the Rivian R1S.

What’s New for 2023?

The high-performance M60 model joins the lineup for 2023, complete with a 610-hp all-electric powertrain and an estimated 280-mile driving range. BMW says this ultimate iX is capable of blasting to 60 mph in just 3.6 seconds. It rides on an air suspension that adapts to sporty driving.

Engine, Transmission, and Performance

Two different variants of the iX are on offer, the first being the xDrive50, which is powered by a pair of electric motors that combine to make 516 hp; all-wheel drive is standard. By our estimates that’s enough power to scoot the iX to 60 mph in 4.4 seconds. The high-performance variant, called M60, offers a whopping 610 hp and BMW says that’s enough to rocket the mid-size SUV to 60 mph in just 3.6 seconds. An adjustable air suspension and a rear-wheel-steering system are both optional on the entry-level xDrive 50 and standard on the M60. During our initial test drive of an xDrive50 model, we noted plentiful power, surprising energy efficiency, agile handling, and a smooth ride. When we get a chance to drive the iX at our test track, we’ll update this story with test results.

Range, Charging, and Battery Life

The iX sports a large 106.3-kWh battery pack that BMW says will offer around 300 miles of driving range per charge in the xDrive50 and 280 miles in the hotter M60. DC fast charging capability is standard and the iX can recharge from 10 percent to 80 percent in just 35 minutes when hooked up to a 200-kW connection. BMW has partnered with EVgo to provide a network of public charging stations for iX drivers but the SUV is able to charge on other popular networks, as well as through a Level 2 home charging station.

Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG

The EPA has not released fuel economy estimates for the iX yet, nor has it confirmed BMW’s claimed 300-mile driving range. When we get a chance to test the iX on our 75-mph highway fuel economy test route, we’ll update this story with range and MPGe results. For more information about the iX’s fuel economy, visit the EPA’s website.

Interior, Comfort, and Cargo

The Bimmer SUV is about the same size as the company’s mid-size X5 and X6 crossovers, and its passenger and cargo space is similar to those models as well. The iX’s interior design is both simple and modern with a host of high-tech elements including a large curved touchscreen instrument panel and a hexagonal-shaped steering wheel. BMW offers a large panoramic sunroof featuring electrochromic shading as an option—a trick feature found on only a few vehicles. Power front seats are also heated and feature integrated speakers for the iX’s stereo system. Both faux-leather and genuine leather upholsteries are offered, but BMW also offers a textile seat fabric option—dubbed Loft—which uses microfiber cloth.