BMW has introduced the latest addition to its lineup, the BMW iX, now available in the premium ‘xDrive’ variant with a price tag of Rs 1.4 crore (ex-showroom pan-India). This new variant comes at a premium of Rs 19 lakh compared to the entry-level xDrive40. The xDrive50 exhibits enhancements such as a larger battery pack and a more powerful motor, promising improved performance and an extended claimed range.

Design and Characteristics

The design of the new variant closely resembles that of the existing xDrive40 model. Nevertheless, the premium xDrive50 model now includes 22-inch alloy wheels as a standard feature.

In terms of its features, it includes a 12.3-inch digital driver display, a 14.9-inch information system, a Harman Kardon Sound System equipped with 18 speakers, wireless phone charging capability, and a panoramic glass roof.

Its safety features include a suite of advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, and blind spot detection.

Powertrain Updates

The BMW iX xDrive50 features an expanded 111.5 kWh battery pack, providing a WLTP-certified range of 635 km. Paired with dual electric motors—one on each axle—it operates as an AWD system. With an output of 523 PS and 765 Nm of torque, it accelerates from 0 to 100 kmph in a mere 4.6 seconds.

Charging Capabilities

The iX xDrive50 enables rapid charging at speeds of up to 195 kW, with the following charging durations -

• 195 kW DC Charger - Charges from 10% to 80% in just 35 minutes.
• 50 kW DC Charger - Charges from 10% to 80% in approximately 97 minutes.
• 22 kW AC Charger - Achieves a full charge in about 5.5 hours.
• 11 kW AC Charger - Reaches 100% charge in approximately 11 hours.

COMPETITORS

The BMW iX xDrive50 competes with the Mercedes EQE SUV, Jaguar I-Pace, and Audi Q8 e-tron in the market.