2023 BMW iX1 SUV Review

We try out the new electric X1.

BMW has built a new compact SUV, and it’s available with all-electric power.

Review

Pros: impressive performance, great handling, high-quality cabin

Cons: design won’t be for everyone, no ‘long-range’ version

BMW has replaced the aging X1 compact SUV with an all-new model, also called the X1. But as well as adding new technology and new engines, BMW has created an all-electric option, named iX1. But can this high-tech, high-performance premium SUV compete with accomplished rivals from Mercedes-Benz and Volvo?

BMW iX1 Design

The new BMW X1 looks much more modern than its predecessor, with chunky proportions and sharp, clean lines. And although the front grille is bigger than before, those who have followed BMW’s design language in recent years will be pleased to note it still isn’t enormous.

Differentiating the iX1 from its more conventionally powered siblings isn’t that easy unless you look at the badge on the back. Some examples will, however, come with blue exterior trim pieces to mark the car out, but those can be swapped for more subdued tones if you’d rather not shout about the battery pack under the floor.

The iX1’s design also depends on the version you choose, with xLine models getting more rugged bumpers while the M Sport models have a slightly sportier, more aggressive aesthetic.

BMW iX1 Interior

As with the exterior, the iX1’s cabin is much the same as that of the petrol-, diesel- and hybrid-powered versions, each of which come with a modern dashboard crowned by BMW’s curved display. That broad unit houses two screens – a digital instrument cluster and a touchscreen infotainment system – and makes the car look and feel very contemporary.

The screens are both almost perfect, with clear, configurable displays and intuitive menus, but the touchscreen in particular has taken on plenty of responsibility. Now home to everything from vehicle functions to climate control and from charging information to navigation, the iX1’s dash is almost devoid of buttons, and that makes it less ergonomic than it might otherwise be. That said, the build quality is top notch.

As is the practicality. The iX1 has loads of cabin space so four adults will fit in quite happily, and though the 490-litre boot is smaller than that of the basic petrol model, it’s still more than spacious enough for most drivers’ needs. What’s more, it makes the iX1 more practical than its immediate rivals, the Mercedes-Benz EQA and the Volvo XC40 Recharge.

BMW iX1 Performance & Drive

While the X1 is available in petrol, diesel and plug-in hybrid forms, this is the first time the compact luxury SUV has been offered in electric guise. As standard, the iX1 comes with a 64.7kWh battery pack and two electric motors, which combine to produce 313hp and give the car all-wheel drive.

They also make the iX1 really fast, with a 0-100km/h time of less than six seconds and a top speed of 180km/h, but more important is the efficiency on offer. The iX1’s official range of between 413- and 438km doesn’t sound that impressive alongside the basic Mercedes EQA’s 529km range, but the EQA is much less powerful. Compare more equivalent models and there’s little in it.

Where the iX1 pulls far ahead of the EQA, however, is on the road. BMWs are famed for their driving experience, and the iX1 is a shining example of how good compact SUVs can be. The steering is precise, the grip is plentiful and the body doesn’t lean too much in corners. The electric motors also pull smoothly, quickly and quietly, which makes the car feel nippy and refined around town. The ride isn’t perfect – the heavy iX1 sags into some potholes a bit – but it’s generally pretty smooth, especially at higher speeds.

BMW iX1 Pricing

The iX1 will cost just under €64,000 in Ireland, but customers get a choice of two trim levels: xLine and M Sport. The former looks more rugged while the latter gets sportier styling, but both come with lots of equipment. There’s navigation, climate control and alloy wheels across the range, while leather (synthetic or otherwise) seats and parking sensors also feature on both models.

Carzone Verdict: 4.5/5

With a smart new design and a great all-electric powertrain, the iX1 was always going to be good. But it’s the fresh new technology and top-notch driving experience that set the BMW apart from its rivals and push the iX1 to the top of its class.