Facelifted BMW iX is set to build on its predecessor's strengths
The BMW iX has established itself as a remarkable all-rounder in the electric vehicle fold, delivering compelling proof that EVs can thrive in Mzansi.
With its impressive driving range, exceptional comfort, and outstanding performance, which we've experienced firsthand in our long-term M60 variant, the iX sets a new benchmark for what an electric SUV can achieve.
Impressive as it is, BMW is introducing the facelifted iX range, which, at first glance, looks all set to make a statement in its respective fold. Unlike the pre-facelifted range, which consisted of the xDrive40, xDrive50, and xDrive60 variants, the new range comprises the xDrive45, xDrive60, and M70 xDrive.
On the outside, the headlights have been revised and now feature vertical elements for daytime running lights and turn indicators. The iX now comes standard with adaptive LED headlights with a cornering light function and new city lights. For a more dynamic look, buyers can fit the optional M Sport package, which adds more pronounced lines, striking air intakes at the front, and vertical reflectors at the back.
Regarding the optionally available M Sport package Pro, the iX comes fitted with dark M Shadow Line headlights and rear lights, as seen in the range-topping M70 xDrive model. This specific model features the M Sport package and the M Sport package Pro as standard; these add a model-specific kidney grille with an M insignia, black mirror caps, as well as 22-inch M light alloys.
The exterior colour list includes Arctic Race Blue metallic, Dune Grey metallic, Carbon Black metallic, BMW Individual Frozen Deep Grey metallic, BMW Individual Frozen Pure Grey metallic, Tanzanite Blue metallic, and Space Silver metallic. BMW says the Individual Exterior Line Titanium Bronze can be had as a further option for the xDrive45 and the xDrive60.
For starters, BMW says it has fine-tuned the electronic xDrive system to deliver more power. In this case, the xDrive45’s power has been increased by 60kW; the unit now makes 300kW. This also means the model gets to the 100km/h mark from zero, 1.0 second quicker than before. The xDrive60, on the other hand, received a power bump of 15kW, to a total output of 400kW. It hurtles from 0-100km/h in 4.6 seconds en route to a top speed of 200km/h for both models.
Sitting at the top of the range is the iX M70 xDrive with rather intriguing figures. By that, we mean 485kW and a maximum torque of 1,100Nm when the launch control is engaged. It blisters silently from 0-100km/h in 3.8 seconds or 3.5 seconds when using what BMW calls the ‘1-foot rollout’ method. We have no idea how it operates exactly, but it’s worth trying when the car gets here.
BMW has also upgraded the battery technology of the three models. For example, the xDrive45’s unit has been increased by 30% to 94.8kWh while the xDrive60 and M70 xDrive are now rated at 109.1kWh and 108.9kWh, respectively. This has resulted in an increased range of up to 40%, depending on the model. For instance, BMW claims a range of up to 700km between charges for the xDrive60 model. No range anxiety here. As for the charging technology, BMW says it has improved it for an enhanced experience.
The interior doesn’t seem like it has benefitted a lot from the refresh. You still get the same interior setup but now with new M multi-function seats with optional ventilating for the first time. According to BMW, these come standard on the M70 but are optional in the xDrive45 and xDrive 60 models.
BMW SA has not yet disclosed more specifics regarding the facelifted iX, including its local availability. However, when it does arrive, it’s set to build on the strengths of its predecessor, remaining a standout in the EV space with the qualities that made the current model so compelling.
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