2026 BMW iX initial drive: I anticipated BMW would dial it back, but fortunately, that wasn't the case.

      Electric vehicles have afforded car manufacturers a unique chance to discard traditional design and engineering standards in favor of innovative concepts, and few have taken advantage of this like BMW.

      The first major foray into electric vehicles for the German automaker was the BMW i3, a compact hatchback that defied all preconceived notions of what a BMW should look like, featuring an unconventional design and engineering that matched its electric powertrain. Although the i3 did not achieve strong sales, its essence continues in a new electric model at the opposite end of the pricing and size spectrum.

      Launched in 2022, the BMW iX is a sizable SUV that ranks near the top of BMW's electric vehicle range. It has now been on the market long enough for a mid-cycle update—known as Lifecycle Impulse (LCI) in BMW terminology—that introduces several enhancements while retaining the spirit of the i3.

      Bold and distinctive

      Stephen Edelstein/Digital Trends

      Similar to the i3, the iX is difficult to overlook. Critics of the original model may be disappointed to find that BMW has maintained the enormous grille, which now comes with an optional lighting feature. However, larger air intakes on both sides provide some balance, while redesigned headlights with striking vertical elements give the updated iX a somewhat disoriented look.

      Nonetheless, it's refreshing to see a design that stands out in traffic—at least from certain perspectives. The main drawback is that little else about the vehicle is particularly eye-catching. The slender taillights are unique yet understated, and the iX’s tall, curvy silhouette suggests uncertainty among BMW’s designers about whether they were crafting an SUV or a minivan.

      The iX is hard to miss.

      Beyond design, the iX also incorporates some of the impressive engineering found in the i3. Its chassis features a combination of aluminum, steel, and carbon fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP), which was first introduced by the i3. While CFRP is designed to reduce weight without compromising structural integrity, this advantage is less pronounced here. BMW lists the base curb weight at 5,567 pounds, which is comparable to a Mercedes-Benz EQE SUV that employs more traditional chassis materials.

      For 2026, the iX lineup will expand to include the new iX xDrive45 entry-level model, priced below the xDrive60 and M70 xDrive, which replace last year’s xDrive50 and M60 xDrive variants. The M70 xDrive features a sportier look, complete with larger front air intakes and a small rear diffuser, though a similar aesthetic can be added to the other two models with an optional M Sport Package.

      Enhanced performance—does it matter?

      Stephen Edelstein/Digital Trends

      All three 2026 iX models come equipped with dual-motor all-wheel drive systems, hence the “xDrive” designation. The entry-level iX xDrive45 features a 100.1-kilowatt-hour (usable capacity) battery and is rated at 402 horsepower and 516 pound-feet of torque. The other models utilize a larger battery and different software, offering usable capacities of 113.4 kWh for the xDrive60 and 112.8 kWh for the M70. Either way, these amounts exceed the 109 kWh found in all 2025 iX models.

      Power output is also increased. Although the base xDrive45 does not have a corresponding 2025 model, the xDrive60’s 536 hp represents a 20-hp increase over the outgoing xDrive50 (torque remains stable at 546 lb-ft). The M70 delivers 650 hp and 811 lb-ft, which is an increase of 40 hp and 62 lb-ft over the M60 it replaces. However, this sportiest model still maintains a 0-60 mph time of 3.6 seconds, according to BMW.

      Sharp steering allows drivers to maximize the chassis's capabilities effortlessly.

      The M70 is noticeably quicker than both the xDrive45 and xDrive60, which achieve 60 mph in a BMW-estimated 4.9 seconds and 4.4 seconds, respectively. Yet, from behind the wheel, all three models feel sufficiently fast. Transitioning from the M70 to the xDrive45 didn't register as a downgrade; the base model proved more than capable of pushing occupants into their seats.

      While there wasn't a significant difference in handling and ride quality, this is largely because BMW set a high benchmark with the pre-facelift iX. Although this isn't the sportiest option in their lineup, it navigates corners gracefully, with precise steering that facilitates extracting the most from the chassis. It also achieves this while maintaining the smooth ride expected from a true luxury vehicle—even on the newly available 23-inch wheels. This comfort is attributed to features such as rear-axle steering and adaptive air suspension, which come standard on the M70 but can also be added