iX1 REVIEW
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iX1 Review
BMW's first all electric X1 - The BMW iX1 arrived in Irish Dealerships in January of this year.
This electric SUV had been highly anticipated and for good reason. The iX1 is spacious, with a host of top technology and impressive functionality. Joining the BMW i Range, it is the third pure Electric BMW SUV after the iX and the iX3 and brings their electric model line up to an impressive 8 models – including the i3, i4, i4 M50, iX, iX M60, iX3 M Sport, iX1 and i7.
It’s arrival has been highly anticipated by many, including the team here at Joe Duffy BMW, as it has a better range than the slightly larger iX3 and comes in with a lower price point for most of the same functionality. As a compact SUV, it's designed to provide a more spacious electric driving experience, in a more practical and versatile form.
Exterior
The BMW iX1 features a modern and futuristic design, which is typical of many of the electric vehicles currently on the market. The most striking feature of the exterior is the signature BMW kidney grille, love it or hate it, it is distinctive and instantly recognisable. The cooling functions of the upright, large-sized kidneys of the radiator grille have been replaced by a multifunctional and innovative sensor platform for assisted and automated driving. Behind the closed surface of the grille, cameras, sensors and other technologies are hidden, hard at work. The grille is flanked by sharp LED headlights, and the overall design is sleek and aerodynamic. The compact SUV profile is evident, with a raised ride height and a slightly sloping roofline. Overall, the IX1 has a sporty and aggressive appearance that will appeal to many fans of BMW's styling.
Interior
Inside the cabin, the BMW IX1 is similarly futuristic and modern. The dashboard features a digital instrument cluster and infotainment system in a wrap-around screen and BMW’s latest iDrive 8 technology. The control display uses the latest BMW Operating System 8 so there are less buttons and the voice control works better than before. Even the ventilation controls are accessed from the screen. Wireless smartphone charging also features. The interior materials are high-quality, and the seats are comfortable and supportive.
Overall, the cabin is spacious and well-designed, with plenty of headroom and legroom for event the tallest of passengers.
Performance
The BMW iX1 is powered by a 64.8 kWh battery and an electric motor that produces 313 horsepower and 494 Nm of torque. It can accelerate from 0 to 100 kph in 5.6 seconds, which is a very impressive performance figure for a compact SUV.
The iX1 has a range of 417-440 kilometres on a single charge. The vehicle also supports fast charging, which can provide up to 80% charge in just under half an hour, or if you are really strapped for time, the iX1 has the capability to recharge up to 120km in just 10 minutes.
The BMW iX1 provides a smooth and quiet driving experience, as is typical of electric vehicles. The electric motor provides instant torque, which makes acceleration quick and responsive. The ride is comfortable and composed, and the handling is agile and precise. The steering is well-weighted and responsive, and the brakes are strong and easy to modulate.
There are also a couple of different drive settings available on the iX1 - Setting a "sporty" driving style the vehicle assumes 100% highway driving with an average speed of approximately 130 km/h and a dynamic overtaking style. The "economical" setting assumes defensive driving on country roads with an average speed of around 80 km/h. Settings in between produce a mixture of both.
Overall, the driving experience is enjoyable and engaging, and the iX1 should appeal to both electric vehicle enthusiasts and fans of BMW's driving dynamics.
The BMW IX1 is a well-designed and well-equipped compact SUV that provides a smooth and enjoyable driving experience. The iX1 comes in both xLine and M Sport trim lines with the ability to choose from 3 different configuration options – the iX1 xDrive30 xLine – COMFORT / iX1 xDrive30 M Sport – TECHNOLOGY or iX1 xDrive30 M Sport – ULTIMATE. xLine models are more ruggedly styled, while M Sport models are the sportiest with a cleaner and more urban look.
The iX1 could be considered to be a better choice for some people as it offers many of the same features of the iX3, along with a slightly longer range and 4 wheel drive as standard which is not an option in an iX3, all for a lower price. Other manufacturer offerings in the electric SUV market that could be considered similar to the iX1 would be the Mercedes EQA or Tesla Model Y, but the iX1 has better driving dynamics than the Mercedes, and better built quality than the Tesla. At the end of the day, it comes down to what your preference is, and what functionality you deem to be essential. For smaller families who don’t need quite as much space but still need a spacious electric car, with a great range and competitive price point, the iX1 is the perfect option.
Its futuristic design, modern interior, and good range make it a compelling option for electric vehicle buyers. It offers plenty of performance, safety, and convenience features that will appeal to many drivers, along with a great electric range. Overall, the BMW iX1 is a great addition to BMW's electric vehicle lineup, and it should be on the shortlist of any electric SUV buyer.
If you have any questions about the iX1 or any of the other BMW i Range models, please contact the Team at Joe Duffy BMW today.
