New 2023 BMW iX1

BMW's entry-level electric SUV has landed

The 2023 BMW iX1 is the German firm's entry-level electric SUV.

At first glance, you might not spot too much about the all-new iX1 to set it apart from any other version of the X1 compact SUV: as far as looks go, it's hardly any different. However, this new version comes with an all-electric drivetrain, and as such, goes head-to-head with other premium electric SUVs such as the Audi Q4 E-Tron and Mercedes-Benz EQA.

The numbers look reasonably encouraging, too. For your £52,500 (approx), you get a roomy compact SUV with a 500-litre boot, and that is capable of 0-62mph in around five seconds thanks to its twin electric motors that deliver 308bhp to all four wheels. Maximum claimed range is given at 257 miles, and you can rapid charge it at up to 150kW, meaning a 100-mile top-up in 15 minutes, or a 10%-80% charge in around 30 minutes.

In this CarGurus UK video review, Vicky Parrot travels to Denmark to experience BMW's new electric offering, and evaluates its practicality, quality, technology and what it's like to drive.

Pros
Very classy interior and infotainment system
Good to drive
Efficiency is pretty good

Cons
Not as versatile as some rivals
An expensive option in the class
Dimensions aren't as compact as they once were

The CarGurus verdict
The BMW iX1 is a seriously comprehensive premium SUV that offers the best infotainment and cabin finish in the class. It’s also a sophisticated car to drive yet a practical family car, so it has the essentials wrapped up. However, it’s inundated with rivals, from the Nissan Ariya, Skoda Enyaq iV and Hyundai Ioniq 5 through the Mercedes EQA, Audi Q4 e-tron and Tesla Model Y, and plenty more, besides.

Amongst those rivals are cars that offer a roomier interior and longer driving range at a lower price, but if the premium badge and lustre that it brings is an important factor to you (and we can see why it would be) then the BWM iX1 should be very near the top of your electric family SUV list.

▬ Contents of this video ▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬
00:00 – Introducing the BMW iX1
01:08 – Practicality and interior
01:30 – What is it like to drive
05:00 – Final Thoughts

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#cargurusUK #BMWix1 #ix2023

[jamiep]

I enjoyed watching the Video. A welcome addition to the X1 Range and one of best New Electric SUVs on sale

[faradaycool]

Hello Vicky. You have tested this, and the iX3. How do they compare in terms of road noise and soaking up bumps? Thanks!

[SteveLoughran]

the rough ride at slower speeds is probably amplified by the 19" tyres in the m sport; the xline has 18". tried out the petrol one on monday. much better luggage room, rear window visibility, passenger space and headroom than the volvo c40. the voice recognition wasn't great-kept mistaking my "drive me to portbury" -10 miles from bristol- for portree, isle of skye, 600+ miles. that's just failure to use current location info when choosing which town the speaker was referring to. one nice aspect of the ix1 is it's light compared to its competitors-should be less of a barge in town

[MrGMawson]

Great video Vicky

Have you had a go in that New Smart #1

[DonegalTDI]

Good review, no waffle and to the point 💪💪

[rurur]

Hello all! I am currently in the process of configuring an iX1 model and i was looking intensely at the driving assistance package - i couldn't find a comparison - i reached BMW and got all the data - please find the information below - if possible could you please do a video on the pro/ cons for these packages/ the Professional ones comes with a big financial impact (extra 5 000 Eur) - is this really worth it or you have the closer benefits by having 5AS+5AT ( aprox 1 300 Eur) ?

5AS - Driving Assistant

Radar-based driver assistance system consisting of:
Lane Change Warning, rear crossing traffic warning with brake intervention, exit warning, Rear Collision Prevention

- Lane Change Warning with active return, permanently monitors the zones to each side of the vehicle, detects vehicles in the "blind spot" from 20 km/h and faster when intending to change lanes (indicator is activated or stalk is held in 'short on' position), haptic warning via the steering wheel (vibration) and flashing symbol in the exterior mirror as well as return to the lane via active steering intervention. Warnings can be issued when turning (e.g. U-turn) in the low speed range up to approx. 20 km/h.

- Rear crossing traffic warning:
Supports the driver, for example, when reversing out of parking spaces and brakes to avoid potential collisions with intersecting traffic in situations where it is difficult to see everything around them. The Reversing Assist Camera extends the rear crossing traffic warning by an additional real-image display.

- Rear collision prevention:
detects the threat of rear collisions via rear sensors and warns the traffic behind via the hazard warning lights (flashing in double frequency). Preventive measures will also be taken in unavoidable accident situations (e.g. belt tensioning, closing windows, etc.).

- Exit warning: detects approaching objects (vehicles, cyclists) and warns the driver and/or passengers when opening doors if there is a risk of collision with the detected object.

Please note: system scopes included in the optional equipment only provide assistance within defined system limits. It remains the responsibility of the driver to react to the actual traffic situation.


5AT - Driving Assistant Plus


Camera- and radar-based driver assistance system consisting of Active Cruise Control (the vehicle's speed is controlled and maintained in the range from approximately 30-180 km/h, allowing for a variable distance from the vehicle ahead). In addition to vehicles driving ahead, stopped vehicles can also be detected, automatic initial braking of the vehicle, braking up to standstill if necessary (Stop&Go function). The system offers controlled start-up from a standstill, either automatically or initiated by the driver. If requested, the system can adapt the distance according to the situation so the driver does not need to take action. Operation of the Active Cruise Control via multifunction controls for steering wheel.

Steering and Lane Control Assistant (basic): helps the driver stay in the middle of the lane using corrective steering interventions in the speed range 0–180 km/h, thus extending the functionality of Active Cruise Control.

Speed Limit Info with display of speed limits further ahead and no-overtaking indicator as well as manual Speed Limit Assist which enables the adoption of a detected speed limit as a set speed for the Distance Control (ACC with Stop&Go) and Speed Limiter function as well as Cruise Control. (not for BG)

Lane Departure Warning with lane return, detects lane markings at speeds above approx. 70 km/h and transmits vibrations via the steering wheel as a warning to prevent inadvertent departure from the lane and potential collisions with oncoming traffic when turning. Suppressed when turn indicators are active or the indicator stalk is held in the one-touch position (desired lane change). Display in the instrument cluster.

Please note: system scopes included the optional equipment only provide assistance within defined system limits. It remains the responsibility of the driver to react to the actual traffic situation.



5AU - Driving Assistant Professional

Camera and radar-based driver assistance system with the following functions incl. the contents of option code 5AS 'Driving Assistant':

- Steering and lane control assistant: helps the driver stay in the middle of the lane using corrective steering interventions in the speed range 0–210km/h. In narrow passages on motorways (e.g. road works), the steering assistance ensures that a proper distance to vehicles at the sides and lane markings is maintained. The driver is requested to keep both hands on the steering wheel during vehicle guidance to ensure that they are paying attention and able to react if necessary.

- Distance control (Active Cruise Control with Stop&Go function) up to 210 km/h

- Lane Keeping Assistant with active side collision protection: assists the driver in keeping in lane and actively preventing potential side collisions by means of corrective steering interventions (Lane Change Warning and Lane Departure Warning, side-collision warning). A visual warning is displayed in addition to the active steering intervention, and the steering wheel vibrates. Applies to Lane Change Warning and Lane Departure Warning from approx. 20km/h.

- Front/rear crossing traffic warning: brakes in the event of crossing traffic while leaving/entering a parking space as well as while turning into crossing traffic in situations with restricted visibility. (up to 7km/h) Depending on vehicle configuration, information is shown in the camera display (panorama/Surround View) or in the PDC display.

- The Emergency Stop Assistant is capable of controlling the vehicle for a short time and stopping it in the event of a medical emergency. This function can be overridden by operation of the accelerator, steering wheel and other controls. Additionally, the hazard warning flashers are activated to warn nearby road users, and the rescue services are automatically alerted via ECALL.

- Road Priority Warning: assistance with visual/acoustic warning of a potential collision with intersecting traffic. Comprised of partial functions: warning in right-of-way situations and at stop signs (only with option 6U3 'BMW Live Cockpit Professional'). Active at up to 85 km/h.

Please note: system scopes included the optional equipment only provide assistance within defined system limits. It remains the responsibility of the driver to react to the actual traffic situation.

- Steering and Lane Control Assistant
- Emergency Stop Assistant
- Lane Change Assistant (only for CZ, HU, SI, PL)
- Distance Control (ACC with Stop&Go)
- Lane Departure Warning
- Front/rear crossing traffic warning
- Evasion Assistant

[anthonystevens]

A great quick review Vicky. "BMW's styling language is a bit divisive", very true, I can't get my head around why they need to place huge nostrils on the front, more so if they are fake. While I can appreciate it as a car there are just a few too many things (apart from the style) that put me off. A full touch screen climate operation is a no for me. Why with so many reviewers mentioning a preference for physical controls are new cars pushing us in that direction? Well I guess it's cost cutting but anything additional that takes the drivers eye away from the road is a bad idea. For someone with an older family the high floor in the back may cause comfort complaints as you mention. Other than that I quite like it. The four wheel drive and the ability to hit the 'boost' button for quick overtakes is good. It means that the driver has to make a conscious decision to trade some range for acceleration. As it is I'll be looking at some alternatives before taking a closer look at this car.

[PetrolheadTours]

Vicky, thanks for another great review. Quick question though, would you buy a top spec ix1 over a base spec ix3 for similar money? Similar interior space but in a faster and nimbler package with 4wd and with newer tech… or the rwd older tech iX3?

[jonathantaylor]

£52k...???
And BMW have tried to claim that the iX1 is the 'spiritual successor' to the, sadly, now discontinued BMW i3... the truly innovative, forward-thinking, super-efficient electric city-car they launched nearly a decade ago now.
Tell me... exactly what is innovative, forward-thinking and super-efficient about this "yet-another" electric SUV...? 🤔

[jamesx]

Clear, concise, told me what I needed to know. Excellent review! I built one of these ix1's on the BMW website. £62, 000. How much is a 1 year old car with 13, 000 miles from a main dealer... £34, 000 😂 think I'll be grabbing myself a bargain in 2 years with current EV depreciation

[robertshears]

0-62 mph in close to 5 seconds. It would be nice if BEVs quoted a 30-50 and 50 -70 mph as not everyone likes traffic light races. Otherwise another good review video.

[sreesailamharikumar]

Still good car
Eye turner
Fantastic road presence
My next dream car
Hopefully in coming years

[philipwoodford]

Ordered mine today! EQC goes back next year helpful review thank you and I love the face especially on the IX but can understand why it is marmite for many!

[kevinn]

A shame this isn't coming to North America.

[AM-zqro]

I see MG becoming more common regardless of what people think about the badge as its what a lot of average salary people will be able to afford (unless they sell their kidney). MG equivalent of the VW ID3 starts below £30k. £20+k is a lot of money.

On the plus side I do like the look of this BMW.

[bloodynorahvan]

Sorry, come again? Did you just say £52.5k for a 1 series BMW?!

[tomcockcroft]

How can the cheapest bmw start at £53k it’s

[athollmcnicoll]

Well Vickie unless I win the lottery, I cannot see myself going back to a Beemer and certainly not an SUV no matter how small it is .

[marcbungener]

I guess this is a mesure of the futur success of this car that I cannot play it while the rest of youtube works - or it is just buggy ???

[colincar]

my 72 reg (nov 2022)m sport X1 just been in the dealer for the fifth time with camera issues, both lane departure and Collison yellow lights come on mainly when bright sunshine is on the screen, BMW dealer had another vehicle the same, BMW aware and a software update is due July, once the lights came on and pulled us into the oncoming lane which was frightening, have loads of evidence. Dare not let my wife drive the vehicle, going to use my van till July