2025 BMW iX1

The BMW X1 is a versatile and spacious SUV that fits any occasion, whether it’s cruising through the suburbs, weaving through the city, or embarking on the open road – the compact SUV is designed for it all. With BMW expanding its lineup of electrified vehicles, the X1 is now available with petrol, plug-in hybrid, or fully electric drivetrains. 

We recently took a journey in the iX1 xDrive 30, the fully electric version, which allowed us to explore what makes this electric model a standout option in the growing market of sleek and compact EVs. The iX1 is the perfect blend of eco-performance and innovative design, making it an enticing choice for modern drivers. 

As a BMW, I anticipated a smooth and exhilarating driving experience, and it delivered beyond my expectations. The electric powertrain, which features dual electric motors — one on each axle — generates a combined 230kW of electric power and 494Nm of torque. Though designed for a family lifestyle, it has an unmistakable spirit that comes alive when you accelerate. Acceleration is 0–100 km/h in 5.6 seconds, a staggering feat for an SUV primarily intended to transport kids and their sports gear.

Behind the wheel, the iX1 feels unmistakably like a BMW. The steering is precise and dynamic, becoming lighter in city driving but more full-bodied on the open road. The four-wheel drive system and adaptive M suspension provide excellent grip and handling, ensuring both stability and grace while driving. When driving, the iX1 remains completely planted and stable, regardless of the road conditions or surface type.

The BMW My Modes feature allows you to switch between Personal, Sport, and Efficient driving styles. Each mode significantly alters the responsiveness of the throttle, steering, and regenerative braking. In Sport mode, the iX1 transforms into a completely different vehicle; it evolves from a comfortable city cruiser into a dynamic machine that invites a more engaging driving experience.

The iX1 combines the thrill of driving with refined sophistication. The whisper-quiet electric motor and soundproofing minimise road noise in the cabin. The only sound you’ll notice is a deep resonant note that mimics acceleration, adding a touch of excitement to your journey. With an adjustable regenerative braking system, you can fine-tune your experience. Initially, it was a bit too strong for my liking, but it was easily dialled back for a smoother ride. If you’re accustomed to the fluidity of electric driving, the iX1 will feel familiar for those used to one-foot driving.  

Featuring a 64.8kWh battery and 18.1–17kWh/100km (WLTP) consumption, the iX1 manages a 417–437km (WLTP) range according to the BMW spec sheet. During our road test, we averaged approximately 18kWh per 100 km, making this car an excellent daily commuter with impressive average consumption for city driving.

Charging times are comparable to the market standard, taking just under 30 minutes to charge from 10 to 80 per cent with DC fast charging. If you need a quick boost to get home, BMW have things sorted. Just ten minutes at the charger will give you an impressive 118–135km range. This should give you confidence on a weekend getaway or navigating your daily commute, knowing you won't have to take an extended break along the way.

The iX1 illustrates the distinctive style of BMW's SUV range. Flared wheel arches, distinctive roofline, and bold rear outline embody the styling synonymous with the X range. The most telling sign that this is the electric variant lies in its front grille, which trades the iconic vertical bars for a plastic cover embellished with a diamond-shaped pattern. This does cheapen the car and makes it less aggressive. Fortunately, the L-shaped LED headlights and taillights, along with aggressive bumpers, ensure that this compact SUV still possesses a formidable road presence.

Despite the gigantic road presence, the iX1 is surprisingly easy to navigate on the road and around carparks. Parking is made even easier thanks to the 360-degree camera through the central display. 

Moving inside, the interior has had a once-over with the minimalist paint brush. While the start-button, gear selector, and park brake are conveniently located together in the centre console, alongside the volume button, the rest of the controls are incorporated into the panoramic curved display, giving the interior a modern, minimalist feel. While I personally favour traditional physical controls - adjusting settings should never divert your gaze from the road - navigating the touchscreen is both intuitive and user-friendly.

The panoramic display is crisp, fast, and tech-heavy, incorporating Alexa, Android Auto, and Apple CarPlay. You'll also need to get used to the upright wireless phone charger, complete with a handy brace to keep your device securely in place. A particular quirk that you may never get used to is the centre console storage lid that swings open towards the driver - a little design error that can leave you reaching over a bit awkwardly to use it.  

With sleek lines and bold corners, the interior is unmistakably BMW, accentuated by stylish chrome trim that catches the eye. The standard interior is a dark-coloured cloth, but the test-drive model came with the optional light-smoke vegan leather, adding a touch of sophistication. However, it may not be ideal if you have messy kids. Overall, the interior boasts solid build quality, and every component feels high quality. 

While the iX1 fits into the compact segment, it is surprisingly much more practical than you might expect. There is generous space in the rear footwell, making it perfect for long journeys. The 40:20:40 rear seat backrest split is another example of the SUV's versatility, allowing you to adapt the space to your needs. With a luggage capacity of 490 litres, extending to an impressive 1,495 litres when the rear seats are folded down, it offers a substantial amount of space for a compact SUV.

Starting at $96,900, the iX1 is one of the more affordable electric BMWs available, offering the capabilities of larger, more expensive SUVs at a significantly more palatable price. For that price tag, you'd expect to get a lot of car, and the iX1 doesn't hold back; it's practical, quick, and enjoyable to drive. It competes strongly against models like the Volvo EX40, Audi Q4 e-tron, and Mercedes EQA, which are all priced closer to the $100,000 mark than the iX1.