BMW iX1 engines, drive and performance
- Currently only one power level
- Twin motor four-wheel drive
- Rapid acceleration, decent range
Electric power
Currently there’s only one power option available. It’s called the xDrive30 and it gets 272hp, helping it achieve a sub-six second 0-62mph time.
In other words, it’s fast. Step on the accelerator and it whooshes down the road much, much faster than most other small SUVs. Traction is superb too, thanks to BMW’s xDrive four-wheel drive system. That said, a Tesla Model Y and even the Smart #1 can be purchased with even stronger acceleration
What’s it like to drive?
- Easy to get to grips with
- Pretty comfortable
- M Sport models get different suspension
With some EVs (such as the Hyundai Kona Electric and MG 5) the instant electric power comes on, there’s a bit of wheelspin, then the traction control mutes movement. But the iX1 feels much more sophisticated. There aren’t any stoppages of power, merely a continued thrust in whichever way you’re heading. And if you’re really in a rush, there’s a Boost paddle on the steering which gives you an additional 42hp for 10 seconds.
The ride is a bit choppy at low speeds, the iX1 proving less comfortable than an XC40 Recharge. Around town you can feel the road’s imperfections beneath you through the seat and the steering wheel, but it settles once up to B-road speeds with good body control for a heavy electric car. In other words, if you like how a BMW feels you’ll probably like the iX1.
It’s a similar story with the handling. The steering feels meaty and precise and body roll is minimal given the elevated seating position. Grip levels are high and the handling is well balanced, resisting understeer well. Slacken the stability control and it’ll even let keen drivers have a little bit of fun on the exit of tight bends. It’s certainly more entertaining than its direct rivals.
It’s quiet too. Most electric cars are quiet, but there’s always a faint whir from the motor. The iX1 manages to nearly eradicate this, but there is still a bit of wind and road noise. There are a couple of regenerative braking levels available but no one-pedal driving mode. The brakes themselves are easy to modulate unlike many rivals.
