2026 BMW iX Hands-On Preview: More Range, More Comfort
Better looks hide improved powertrains along with cabin tweaks.
BMW has brought its only dedicated all-electric model in for a round of updates. The iX arrived four years ago, and this 2026 model builds on its strengths—power, range, and comfort—while addressing original criticisms.
Improved Looks
Yes, it looks different now. Not much mind you, as BMW has focused on the details instead of broad changes. The headlight shape is the same but all the elements are updated, with a simpler daytime running light (DRL) signature aligned with the likes of the new X3. Available black headlights include a linear pattern to match the M Sport “grille”—one of three available—which improves the cohesiveness of the front end.
The changes are much more subtle out back with updated taillight lenses. There are new wheel designs including the ones shown here. (Boy do we feel bad for whoever has to clean them.) This example also sports the Dune Grey which debuted on the X3 M50.
Cabin Changes
As subtle as the changes are outside, the iX cabin upgrades are even harder to spot. Largely we’re good with that: the iX has one of our very favorite cabins in the game, with a real lounge-like vibe.
There was just one problem with that: the iX could also boogie when asked, and the flat seats of old were wholly unsuited for such shenanigans. The good news is that there are now optional M multi-function seats, with much improved bolstering both up high and down low. The flared cushion does make ingress more of an effort, but the payoff is a seat that now firmly holds the driver in place.
The rest of the cabin is almost unchanged. The single-panel, curved display remains, floating above the minimalist dashboard. There are tweaks to the door-mounted controls—metallic trim joins the optional crystal look—and a new steering wheel. Goodies like the available 30-speaker Bowers & Wilkins sound system and the electrochromatic roof remain.
More Power, More Range
The update coincides with a round of updates to the iX powertrain. BMW has switched to silicon carbide semiconductors within its inverters, unlocking increased efficiency. The entry-level model graduates from xDrive40 to xDrive45, packing 402 horsepower along with an expected range of 312 miles (502 kilometers). The middle model now goes by xDrive60, getting a useful 20-horsepower bump to 536 hp, while scoring an impressive 340 miles (547 km). Those craving even more power can opt for the new iX M70, which throws down 650 horsepower. With launch control active, the M70’s 811 pound-feet of torque will rocket it to 62 mph in 3.8 seconds. It will still crack that important 300-mile barrier, too: 302 miles (486 km) of range, to be exact.
Curiously, BMW quotes a different battery capacity for each model. The xDrive45 is rated at 100.1 kilowatt-hours; the xDrive60 and M70 enjoy 113.4 and 112.8 kWh, respectively. All models feature a heat pump as standard.
What AutoGuide Thinks:
Four years on from its debut, it’s safe to say: the BMW iX is not the most visually appealing thing. With a design that felt like two distinct parts smashed together, BMW’s dedicated all-electric SUV is what we might call “challenging.” Which is too bad, because from behind the wheel it remains one of our favorites in the class. The range improvements make a great vehicle better, and those who do want to hustle will be all too happy to see those available M seats. Wrapped up in a tweaked design that brings it closer in-line with its siblings—plus a price that barely budges, considering the added content—and the iX reads like a potential class-leader. We’ll have to see for ourselves later this year.
The 2026 BMW iX begins production next month, and should arrive in dealerships this spring. American pricing begins at $76,325 for the xDrive45, rising to $89,675 for the xDrive60 and $112,675 for the M70 (all prices include $1,175 destination). Canadian pricing is pre-destination at $88,900, $94,900, and $129,000, respectively.
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Kyle began his automotive obsession before he even started school, courtesy of a remote control Porsche and various LEGO sets. He later studied advertising and graphic design at Humber College, which led him to writing about cars (both real and digital). He is now a proud member of the Automobile Journalists Association of Canada (AJAC), where he was the Journalist of the Year runner-up for 2021.
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More Ugly!
Wow, I guess I missed what the last model looked like if this front end is allegedly "improved". Is BMW poaching designers from Lexus? Then again, maybe not. This looks worse than a Lexus. Ugh!