The BMW iX1 marks a significant milestone in BMW’s electrification journey, blending the German automaker’s signature luxury and performance with cutting-edge electric vehicle (EV) technology. Launched as the all-electric sibling of the popular X1 SUV, the iX1 caters to a growing segment of eco-conscious buyers who refuse to compromise on style, comfort, or driving dynamics. Introduced globally in 2022 and making its way to India by late 2023, with the Long Wheelbase (LWB) variant debuting at the Bharat Mobility Global Expo 2025, the iX1 is positioned as an entry-level luxury EV that promises practicality for urban commutes and versatility for weekend getaways. Its sleek design, advanced features, and impressive range make it a standout in the competitive EV market, appealing to those seeking a premium electric SUV without the bulk of larger models like the BMW iX.
BMW has engineered the iX1 to embody its ethos of “sheer driving pleasure,” even in an electric avatar. Unlike purpose-built EVs, the iX1 shares its underpinnings with the internal combustion engine (ICE) X1, allowing BMW to leverage an established platform while transitioning to sustainable mobility. Available in multiple variants worldwide, India sees a tailored lineup with the xDrive30 M Sport and the recently introduced iX1 LWB, the latter designed to maximize interior space and cater to family-oriented buyers. With a potent electric powertrain, a robust battery range, and a host of tech-savvy features, the iX1 competes head-on with rivals like the Kia EV6, Hyundai Ioniq 5, and Volvo XC40 Recharge, aiming to carve a niche in metro cities where EV adoption is accelerating.
This detailed exploration dives into the iX1’s technical prowess, variant offerings, pricing across India’s metro cities, and a comprehensive analysis of its strengths and close competitors, providing a holistic view of why this car matters in 2025’s electrified automotive landscape.
Technical Specifications
The BMW iX1’s technical specifications reflect its dual focus on performance and efficiency. Below is a consolidated table based on data from CarDekho, CarWale, ZigWheels, and BMW’s official sources, verified for accuracy as of March 2025.
| Specification | iX1 xDrive30 M Sport | iX1 LWB |
|---|---|---|
| Powertrain | Dual Electric Motors (AWD) | Dual Electric Motors (FWD) |
| Battery Capacity | 66.4 kWh | 64.8 kWh |
| Max Power | 308.43 bhp (225 kW) | 201 bhp |
| Max Torque | 494 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Transmission | Single-Speed Automatic | Single-Speed Automatic |
| Range (Claimed) | 440 km (WLTP) / 417 km (Real-World) | 531 km (MIDC) |
| Charging Time (0-100%) | 6.3 hrs (11 kW AC) | 6.45 hrs (11 kW AC) |
| Fast Charging (10-80%) | 29 mins (130 kW DC) | 29 mins (130 kW DC) |
| 0-100 kmph | 5.6 seconds | 8.6 seconds |
| Top Speed | 180 kmph | 175 kmph |
| Dimensions (L x W x H) | 4500 mm x 1845 mm x 1616 mm | 4616 mm x 1845 mm x 1627 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2692 mm | 2800 mm |
| Ground Clearance | 170 mm | 170 mm |
| Boot Space | 540 liters (expandable to 1600 liters) | 490 liters (expandable to 1600 liters) |
| Kerb Weight | 2085 kg | 1940 kg |
| Seating Capacity | 5 | 5 |
Notes: Range and charging times may vary based on driving conditions, temperature, and battery health. The iX1 LWB’s specifications are India-specific as per its 2025 launch.
Variants
The BMW iX1 is offered in distinct variants globally, but in India, the lineup is streamlined to suit market demands. Here’s a breakdown of the available variants as of March 2025:
| Variant | Description | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| iX1 xDrive30 M Sport | Top-spec all-wheel-drive variant launched in India in September 2023. | Dual motors, 308 bhp, M Sport package, Harman Kardon sound system, ADAS Level 2, panoramic sunroof. |
| iX1 LWB | Long Wheelbase variant introduced in India at Bharat Mobility Expo 2025. | Single motor (FWD), 201 bhp, extended wheelbase, vegan leather upholstery, 12-speaker audio. |
Notes: Globally, the iX1 also offers an eDrive20 (front-wheel-drive, 204 bhp, 294-mile range), but this variant is not yet available in India.
Price in Metro Cities
Pricing for the BMW iX1 varies across India’s metro cities due to differences in RTO charges, insurance, and local taxes. Below are the on-road prices as of March 2025, sourced from CarDekho and CarWale, reflecting ex-showroom prices plus additional costs.
| City | iX1 xDrive30 M Sport (On-Road Price) | iX1 LWB (On-Road Price) |
|---|---|---|
| Delhi | ₹ 76.06 Lakh | ₹ 51.35 Lakh |
| Mumbai | ₹ 70.69 Lakh | ₹ 52.16 Lakh |
| Bangalore | ₹ 77.25 Lakh | ₹ 53.28 Lakh |
| Chennai | ₹ 74.40 Lakh | ₹ 52.90 Lakh |
| Kolkata | ₹ 78.41 Lakh | ₹ 51.85 Lakh |
Notes: Prices are approximate and subject to change based on dealer discounts, optional accessories, and government incentives for EVs. The iX1 LWB is notably more affordable, positioning it as an attractive entry-level luxury EV.
About the BMW iX1
Design and Aesthetics
The BMW iX1 exudes understated elegance, a hallmark of BMW’s design philosophy, while subtly signaling its electric identity. Its exterior borrows heavily from the third-generation X1, featuring an almost-square kidney grille—a closed-off panel rather than air vents, as EVs don’t require radiator cooling. Adaptive LED headlights with cornering functions and blue accents on the bumpers and side sills distinguish it from its ICE counterpart. The iX1 LWB stretches the proportions further, with a 116 mm longer body and a 108 mm extended wheelbase, lending it a more imposing stance. Available in colors like Black Sapphire Metallic, Storm Bay Metallic, Space Silver Metallic, and India-specific options like Portimão Blue Metallic, the iX1 balances sophistication with a modern edge.
Inside, the cabin is a showcase of minimalist luxury. The dashboard is dominated by a curved dual-display setup—a 10.25-inch digital driver’s display paired with a 10.7-inch touchscreen infotainment system—running BMW’s latest OS 8.5. Soft-touch materials, vegan leather upholstery (branded as Veganza), and ambient lighting create a premium ambiance. The iX1 LWB enhances rear legroom significantly, making it one of the most spacious compact SUVs in its class. The floating center console houses essential controls, while the M Sport package (standard on both variants) adds sporty touches like an M leather steering wheel and aluminum-trimmed sills.
Performance and Driving Dynamics
BMW’s reputation for delivering engaging driving experiences shines through in the iX1, despite its electric powertrain. The xDrive30 M Sport, with its dual-motor setup, produces 308 bhp and 494 Nm of torque, sprinting from 0-100 kmph in a brisk 5.6 seconds—quicker than many rivals like the Volvo XC40 Recharge (6.9 seconds). The all-wheel-drive system ensures excellent grip, and the low center of gravity (thanks to the underfloor battery) minimizes body roll, making it surprisingly nimble for a 2085 kg SUV. The steering is light yet precise, ideal for city driving, though it lacks the tactile feedback enthusiasts might crave on twisty roads.
The iX1 LWB, with its front-wheel-drive configuration and 201 bhp, takes a more relaxed approach, hitting 0-100 kmph in 8.6 seconds. It prioritizes comfort over outright performance, with a softer suspension tune that absorbs urban potholes effectively. Both variants offer a claimed range exceeding 400 km, with the LWB’s 531 km (MIDC) figure outpacing the xDrive30’s 440 km (WLTP). Real-world tests by CarWale peg the xDrive30 at 412 km, suggesting practical usability for intercity travel when paired with fast-charging capabilities (10-80% in 29 minutes via a 130 kW DC charger).
Features and Technology
The iX1 is packed with tech that elevates its luxury quotient. Standard features include wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, a panoramic sunroof, dual-zone climate control, and a 12-speaker Harman Kardon sound system. The xDrive30 M Sport ups the ante with Level 2 ADAS (adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot detection), while the LWB adds electrically adjustable front seats with memory and massage functions. The BMW Curved Display integrates navigation, media, and vehicle diagnostics seamlessly, though its touch-heavy interface can be distracting compared to physical buttons.
Safety is robust, with eight airbags, ABS, DSC (Dynamic Stability Control), and a rear-view camera standard across variants. The Parking Assistant Plus, with a 360-degree camera, simplifies urban maneuvering—a boon in crowded metro cities like Delhi and Mumbai. The iX1’s vegan leather interiors reflect BMW’s sustainability push, aligning with its electric ethos without sacrificing comfort.
Practicality and Comfort
For a compact SUV, the iX1 offers commendable practicality. The xDrive30 M Sport boasts 540 liters of boot space, expandable to 1600 liters with the 40:20:40 split rear seats folded, while the LWB offers 490 liters—still ample for weekend luggage or grocery runs. The extended wheelbase in the LWB variant provides class-leading rear legroom and a 28.5-degree seat recline, making it a compelling choice for families or chauffeured buyers. However, the rear seating angle has drawn minor criticism for being slightly upright, a trait inherited from the standard X1.
Ride quality is firm yet composed, with adaptive suspension (optional on some trims) smoothing out imperfections at higher speeds. Low-speed bumps can feel pronounced, particularly on the xDrive30 with its larger 20-inch wheels, but the LWB’s 18-inch alloys offer a more cushioned experience. Noise insulation is excellent, with minimal wind or tire noise infiltrating the cabin, reinforcing the iX1’s premium credentials.
Market Positioning and Ownership Experience
In India, the iX1 enters a burgeoning luxury EV market where buyers weigh badge value against practicality and cost. Priced between ₹ 51.35 Lakh and ₹ 78.41 Lakh (on-road), it undercuts larger EVs like the BMW i4 while offering a more accessible entry point than the Mercedes-Benz EQA or Audi Q4 e-tron (neither of which are available in India yet). The iX1 LWB, starting at ₹ 49 Lakh (ex-showroom), is a game-changer, making it the most affordable BMW SUV in the lineup—a bold move to capture first-time luxury buyers.
BMW backs the iX1 with an 8-year/160,000 km battery warranty, assuaging range anxiety concerns, though charging infrastructure in metro cities remains a work in progress. Home charging via an 11 kW wallbox takes over 6 hours, practical for overnight use, while DC fast chargers are increasingly common in cities like Bangalore and Delhi. Maintenance costs are lower than ICE counterparts due to fewer moving parts, with electricity costs averaging ₹ 1-1.5 per km—far cheaper than petrol or diesel SUVs.
Close Competitors
The BMW iX1 faces stiff competition in the luxury EV segment. Here’s how it stacks up against its closest rivals:
1. Kia EV6
- Price: ₹ 60.97 Lakh – ₹ 65.97 Lakh (on-road, Delhi)
- Specs: 229 bhp (RWD) or 325 bhp (AWD), 77.4 kWh battery, 708 km range (WLTP)
- Pros: Longer range, futuristic design, faster 0-100 kmph (5.2 seconds in AWD)
- Cons: Less premium interior, smaller boot (480 liters), no ADAS in base trim
- Verdict: The EV6 offers better value and range but lacks the iX1’s luxury badge and refinement.
2. Hyundai Ioniq 5
- Price: ₹ 50.59 Lakh (on-road, Delhi)
- Specs: 217 bhp (RWD), 72.6 kWh battery, 631 km range (ARAI)
- Pros: Competitive pricing, spacious cabin, retro-modern styling
- Cons: No AWD option, softer dynamics, less brand prestige
- Verdict: A strong alternative for range-focused buyers, but it trails the iX1 in performance and tech.
3. Volvo XC40 Recharge
- Price: ₹ 63.37 Lakh (on-road, Delhi)
- Specs: 408 bhp (AWD), 78 kWh battery, 418 km range (WLTP)
- Pros: Superior power, Scandinavian design, safety features
- Cons: Higher price, smaller range, limited variant options
- Verdict: The XC40 excels in power and safety but can’t match the iX1’s pricing or space (especially the LWB).
Comparison Insights
The iX1 xDrive30 M Sport competes directly with the Kia EV6 and Volvo XC40 Recharge in the performance EV space, offering a balanced mix of power, luxury, and practicality. The iX1 LWB, however, targets budget-conscious luxury buyers, undercutting all rivals while delivering BMW’s hallmark quality. Its closest price competitor, the Ioniq 5, offers more range but lacks the iX1’s dynamic edge and premium feel. Globally, the Audi Q4 e-tron and Tesla Model Y loom as threats, but their absence in India gives the iX1 a temporary edge.
Final Thoughts!
The BMW iX1 is a compelling proposition in the luxury EV market, blending BMW’s storied heritage with forward-thinking electrification. The xDrive30 M Sport delivers exhilarating performance and tech, while the iX1 LWB prioritizes space and affordability, making it a versatile choice for metro dwellers. Priced competitively in cities like Delhi and Mumbai, it stands out against rivals like the Kia EV6 and Volvo XC40 Recharge by offering a premium badge, refined dynamics, and practical range. Whether you’re a driving enthusiast or a family buyer, the iX1 adapts to diverse needs, proving that electric luxury needn’t come at an exorbitant cost. As EV infrastructure grows, the iX1 is poised to lead BMW’s charge into India’s sustainable future.
