After nearly a decade since the launch as the brand’s first purpose-built electric model, the i3 BMW’s IX EV range is SUV sized, direct competitor to Audi’s E-tron and Mercedes EQC

Offered in three levels of power iX40, iX50 and the mighty iX M60Roughly the same size as its X5 sibling, and branded as a Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV) to highlight its dynamic and lifestyle qualities.

It really does deliver across the board; equipped with a surprising ability to take on A and B-roads with confidence and delivering a level of poise and assurance despite its 2.4-tonne kerbweight
Drivers and passengers will benefit from the supreme levels of comfort and on-board tech, not to mention the whisper-quiet electric powertrain and luxury cabin feel: the interior is swathed in soft-touch fabrics, while the futuristic dash design is a standout feature.

Rivals from other premium manufacturers that offer up some SUV/SAV competition to the iX, we don’t feel the Audi e-tron, Mercedes EQC or the Tesla Model X provide the same excellent overall package.
In a head-to-head test between the iX and e-tron highlighted the rapid pace of change in EV design and technology, with the older Audi feeling a little behind the curve compared to BMW’s smarter approach and execution.

The 322bhp xDrive40 can manage up to 257 miles from a single charge of its 71kWh battery523bhp xDrive50 version is good for up to 380 miles, using a bigger 105.2kWh battery.
Both power options can be specified with either Sport or M Sport trim levels. xDrive50 boasts 200kW rapid charging versus the xDrive40’s 150kW setup.
Faster charging ability means it takes 34 minutes to top up the xDrive50’s 105.2kWh battery from 10-80 per cent, while the same function takes 31 minutes for the xDrive 40 version

Significantly, is that the xDrive40’s excellent efficiency means you should save a decent amount on charging costs. Calculations (based on a cheaper home charging rate) indicate that you’ll spend just over £1,100 for every 20,000 miles driven, while fuelling a 3.0-litre diesel X5 would cost around three times as much to cover the same distance,
Also offering greatly reduced personal tax advantages over the diesel.

0-62mph acceleration and top speed

The iX range offers a sliding scale of acceleration times as you climb the range, with the entry 322bhp xDrive40 model laying down a 6.1-second sprint marker from 0-62mph.Whereas the xDrive50’s power output rises to 516bhp, along with an increase in torque - from 630Nm to 765Nm. 0-62mph is achieved in 4.6 seconds, with both cars have a top speed of 124mph.

BMW have taken time to produce this size of EV and it certainly looks worth the wait

We have extremely competitive rentals across the BMW IX range, so for pricing or best EV advice please contact us