The U.S.-spec 2022 BMW iX has been announced with a starting price of $84,195. That’s for the iX xDrive50, which can travel up to 300 miles per charge and generate 516 hp and 564 lb-ft of torque. Like the i4 sedan, the iX can charge at a peak rate of 200 kW using a level 3 DC charger, allowing it to gain 90 miles in 10 minutes. A level 2 AC charge maxes out at 11 kW, enabling the iX to charge to 100 percent from empty in less than 11 hours. The iX uses a larger 111.5-kWh lithium-ion battery versus the i4’s 83.9-kWh unit. BMW has partnered with EVgo to give its customers access to an expansive charging station. Buyers and lessees of qualifying battery-electric BMW models will also get a $100 charging credit that can be used at EVgo or its partner charging networks.
Like the 7 Series sedan, the 2022 BMW iX makes extensive use of aluminum, high-strength steel, carbon fiber reinforced plastics (CFRP), and thermoplastics. Dubbed the carbon cage, the iX has CFRP side frames, rain channels, cowl panel, and rear window frame, cutting weight while improving torsional rigidity. BMW’s latest Servotronic variable-ratio steering has been tuned for improved precision and straight-line stability at high speeds. An available integral active steering system adds rear-wheel steering, making the iX easier to maneuver in tight spaces.
The standard dual-motor layout effectively gives the iX AWD. Thanks to its variable nature, it can split torque based on traction needs. To maximize efficiency, the car defaults to RWD mode. A near-actuator wheel slip limitation system has been developed specifically for EVs to maximize straight-line acceleration on slippery surfaces. Like the i4, the iX also gets a new integrated braking system that reduces unwanted feedback and generates stopping power based on the driver’s inputs. Lightweight aero-optimized alloy wheels are offered to maximize airflow.
The same integrated heating/cooling system with three interconnected circuits found on the i4 is also used on the iX. It can use excess heat from the drive unit to warm up the battery or prepare it for high power operation and DC charging. Like most EVs, the iX’s battery is mounted under the passenger compartment to keep the center of gravity low.
BMW’s latest iDrive 8.0 interface will be standard on the 2022 iX. It’ll be capable of over-the-air updates and feature augmented reality video to complement the built-in navigation system and a personal digital assistant. Under the single piece of curved glass are a 12.3-inch digital cluster and a 1`4.9-inch main touch screen. A full suite of active driver assists will also be available. Collision prevention features are standard; however, adaptive cruise control with stop and go function, lane centering, and evasion assist are not. Other cool tech feature features include a head-up display, and an 18-speaker Bowers & Wilkins 4D surround sound system.
The 2022 BMW iX will initially be available only in xDrive50 flavor and is expected to be able to travel 300 miles per charge. That won’t be the only version offered because BMW has confirmed a high-performance M60 version with over 600 hp as the first M-badged all-electric crossover. A base xDrive40 model could also be in the cards since that’s already offered in Europe.
