HTML tags are truly at the forefront of the driving experience, compensating for the EV’s lack of visual appeal. While it may not be at the top of buyers’ wish lists, it can elevate the overall driving experience. Additionally, having extra power is advantageous when driving an EV, as they tend to be heavier due to the battery pack. Enter the BMW iX1 electric SAV, a remarkable example of power and agility that even sports car enthusiasts can appreciate (it accelerates from 0 to 100kmh in just 5.7 seconds). However, most buyers prioritize factors such as battery range, cabin space, and comfort.
Cabin comfort is crucial and is heavily influenced by how the car performs on the road. Some SUVs struggle in this regard, as their height contributes to body roll. But if the suspension is well-designed and the body remains stable through bends and bumps, occupants will feel at ease. The iX1 excels in this area from a driver’s perspective, adding a dynamic touch to the driving experience. However, in terms of design and visuals, it falls slightly short compared to rivals like the Mercedes EQA and Volvo XC40 Recharge. Personally, I found the dark-colored iX1 to be rather unremarkable and blocky. However, the Utah orange metallic model presents a much more appealing appearance.
The cabin, while comfortable and spacious, lacks a sense of adventure. It embodies the essence of a small executive Beemer, featuring high-quality materials, excellent seating, ample space for rear passengers, and a curved display with impressive graphics. However, I missed the rotary iDrive controller knob on the central console, a feature that has been refined over the years. The slide-rule drive-selector replacement didn’t quite meet my expectations, but as with anything in life, I eventually got used to it.
From a driver’s perspective, the combination of seat and steering wheel adjustments provides an excellent vantage point. This was particularly advantageous when navigating narrow roads in rural Wexford. A height advantage makes it easier to gauge distances between cars, hedges, and oncoming traffic. Despite getting lost a couple of times, we had the opportunity to test the car’s performance on various road conditions, including wide and narrow roads, rough surfaces, and smooth surfaces. This highlighted the impressive technology at play. With a motor on each axle, the car boasts 315hp and all-wheel drive, which undoubtedly enhances grip on winding roads.
During the return journey to Dublin, we mainly drove on the motorway at higher speeds, which inevitably consumed more battery power. I also experimented with a special paddle on the left side of the steering wheel, providing a temporary boost of 41hp. However, utilizing this feature had an impact on energy consumption. In all honesty, I don’t see the necessity for such a substantial boost, as the car already offers ample overtaking power and acceleration without it.
In terms of range, based on mixed driving, I would contest the official figure of up to 440km and estimate a more realistic target of around 375km. While not an outstanding figure, it is comparable to the rival Mercedes EQA. From a practical standpoint, the iX1 offers 490 liters of boot space, slightly less than its conventionally powered counterpart, the X1, but still a respectable size.
Taking all factors into consideration, the electric version of BMW’s latest generation of the smallest crossover is a good package, albeit a bit pricey. I thoroughly enjoyed the added power and would opt for the orange-colored model.
Factfile: BMW iX1 xDrive30 M Sport with a 64.7kWh battery and a claimed range of 440km. It can recharge up to 120km of range in 10 minutes and up to 80% in 29 minutes at a high-speed charging station. The car is equipped with a wide range of safety and comfort features, including adaptive LED headlights, M Sport Pro Pack, 20-inch alloys, Harman/Kardon surround sound, front sport/heated seats, and parking assistant. Prices start at €65,385, while the test car was priced at €71,860.
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