BMW iX1: what does the entry-level model look like?

The German is doing rather well

As the latest addition to the BMW range, the iX1 is a small electric SUV closely related to the X1. In its most modest version, it is priced at €57,150. This relatively high price is due to a unique configuration that combines a 64.7 kWh battery with two electric motors producing 313 PS. Visually, the story is reversed, the iX1 is a restrained car: here, there is no specific body kit or wild wheels.

The SUV is limited to small 17-inch wheels with simplistic styling while the front and rear skis are in raw plastic. As for the colour scheme, you’ll have to deal with black, with the rest requiring an extra charge. On board, the theme is repeated: black is black! The seats are upholstered in dark fabric and the dashboard has black lacquer and grey matte inserts. As for the equipment, the basic iX1 convinces with a relatively rich package.

LED front and rear lights are standard, as is a power tailgate. The digital instrument cluster and curved infotainment panel are standard, as is the dual-zone automatic climate control. The front and rear parking aids and a reversing camera make it easier to manoeuvre the 4.5m SUV. However, the Bavarian manufacturer asks for a supplement for the adaptive cruise control.

On long journeys, it ticks the right boxes with a planner and a 130 kW fast charging system. Note, however, that in the same pricing waters, the Tesla Model Y and Kia EV6 will be even more capable of the task thanks to higher autonomies and charging powers. But overall, the entry-level BMW iX1 defends itself well. The only thing we’d advise is to opt for the 18-inch wheels at €1,850 to make it look better.