BMW is keeping up with the Joneses when it comes to new electric vehicles, showing off the long awaited iX and i4 today to the U.S. public.
The new models offer something for all tastes: a new utility model as well as a coupe-style sedan and its first-ever M-branded EV, the i4 M50 — not that performance will be an issue for any of the new models.
The 2022 iX xDrive50 debuts as a “new generation” sport-activity vehicle for the Bavarian automaker. Unfortunately, those in the U.S. wanting to take part in its debut are going to have to wait until Q1 next year for it arrive in America.
When it does arrive, they’ll be very happy, sliding behind the wheel of a 516-horsepower all-electric beast that runs from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.6 seconds — with an estimated range of 300 miles per charge.
Not only does it drive fast, the iX charges fast with DC fast charging at up to 200 kW, available 5G and Personal eSIM support. It also offer plenty of room for passengers with an open, airy cabin featuring a single-piece panoramic glass roof with electrochromic shading.
Impressive on the inside
In addition, it follows the trend of others in the luxury space with the BMW Curved Display and iDrive 8, BMW Digital Key Plus with ultra-wideband radio technology, available Bowers and Wilkins Diamond Surround Sound with 4D audio and the iconic BMW kidney grille serving as an intelligent sensor panel with self-healing capabilities.
The new SAV aimed to offer “an exhilarating driving experience combined with a sense of well-being for both drivers and passengers all the while enjoying the journey with safety, security and in luxury,” the company said.
A more powerful iX M60 model, with over 600 hp and the first all-electric Sports Activity Vehicle from BMW M GmbH, is planned for the future. The new iX xDrive50 starts at $83,200 with destination charges of $995.
The flip side
While sedans are on the outs, they’re still viable in electrified form and the new i4 borrows from BMW’s coupe-like styling for many of its performance models. The i4 blends the functionality and space of the gran coupe design with the instantaneous power delivery of BMW’s fifth generation eDrive, the automaker says.
Class-leading driving dynamics and long-distance comfort, elegant design, uncompromising workmanship, cutting-edge user-vehicle interface and advanced infotainment and driving assistance technologies all combine to deliver a zero-emissions BMW worthy of the Ultimate Driving Machine moniker.
Power is provided by BMW’s latest 5th generation eDrive technology which combines the electric motors, power electronics, charging system and high-voltage battery. The electric motor, power electronics and transmission share one compact housing while the high-voltage battery measures only 4.3-inches in height and is mounted low in the floor of the new i4 for improved vehicle agility.
