Competes with: Cadillac Lyriq, Genesis Electrified GV70, Mercedes-EQ EQE SUV, Rivian R1S
Looks like: A monochromatic iX
Powertrains: 402- (xDrive45), 536- (xDrive60) or 650-horsepower (M70 xDrive) dual electric motors with 100.1-, 113.4- or 112.8-kilowatt-hour battery; all-wheel drive
Hits dealerships: Second quarter of 2025
The BMW iX electric SUV gets an update for 2026 with minor tweaks to the exterior styling, updated powertrain electronics for increased range, and more options. However, the most tantalizing detail for many shoppers will be the new entry-level iX xDrive45 that undercuts the cheapest 2025 iX by more than 10 grand. Priced from $76,325 (all prices include a $1,175 destination fee), the 2026 BMW iX starts $12,100 lower than before.
Related: 2023 BMW iX Review: Inner Beauty
New Powertrain Option, New Names for the Old
At the base of the iX hierarchy is the new xDrive45. Like the rest of the lineup, it is all-wheel drive, with electric motors front and rear combining for 402 horsepower and 516 pounds-feet of torque. With a 100.1-kilowatt-hour battery pack, BMW says the xDrive45 has a maximum range of 312 miles (official EPA ratings for 2026 are not yet available). The automaker estimates the xDrive45 can accelerate from 0-60 mph in 4.9 seconds, which is not terribly quick by EV standards, but it’s remarkably fleet compared to gas-powered five-seat family haulers.
The entry-level 2025 iX, dubbed xDrive50, gets a numerical promotion to xDrive60 along with 20 hp extra for a total output of 536 hp. Torque is unchanged, at 564 pounds-feet. With battery capacity at 113.4 kWh, the xDrive60 can travel up to 340 miles on a charge, an increase of 31 miles from its 2025 equivalent. It will hit 60 mph from rest in 4.4 seconds, according to BMW.
Likewise, the top-of-the-line iX changes its name from M60 to M70 xDrive, with 40 hp more bringing maximum output to 650 hp. Maximum torque remains unchanged at 811 pounds-feet. That output is only available in Sport mode with launch control activated; nominal output is 570 hp and 749 pounds-feet. Launch control flings the M70 xDrive to 60 mph in a claimed 3.6 seconds. This most powerful iX drains its 112.8-kWh battery in an estimated 302 miles, 17 more than the outgoing M60.
Updated Electrical Components
BMW increased pack sizes from 2025’s 109.5 kWh, but increased efficiency elsewhere in the iX’s drivetrain also contributes to its increased range. According to BMW, new silicon-carbide semiconductor components are the single biggest contributor, allowing for more efficient energy conversion in the inverters that hand off energy from the battery to the motors. A new battery management system, and optimized tire choices and wheel bearings also contribute to the increased range. BMW also revised the iX’s temperature management and preconditioning systems to improve cold-weather and charging performance. Additionally, the new iX features plug-and-charge capabilities that allow you to do just that — plug into a public charger and start charging without having to dig for phone apps or payment methods.
All three powertrains have an 11-kilowatt onboard charger for use with AC power. The xDrive60 and M70 xDrive can charge at up to 195 kW on a DC fast charger, while the base variant can accept up to 175 kW. Nonetheless, BMW says the three can all fast-charge from 10% to 80% in around 35 minutes. The M70 xDrive also features several other performance features that set it apart, including sport-tuned adaptive air suspension, rear-wheel steering for better maneuverability and handling, and M Sport-specific roll bars and brakes. (An optional Dynamic Handling Package available to the other models includes adaptive air suspension and rear-wheel steering, and they can also get the M Sport brakes as an option, as well.)
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Subtle Styling and Equipment Updates
The 2026 iX looks different from its predecessor, but only in small ways. BMW ditched the black lower-body and bumper trim on all variants. An optional M Sport appearance package (which comes standard on the M70 xDrive) includes reshaped outer intakes in the front fascia that are thinner and more vertical, bespoke interior trim, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, package-specific alloy wheels and an integrated rear diffuser. An M Sport Professional Package includes the perks of the M Sport Package but with darker M Shadowline headlights and taillights. While all still have the bucktoothed grille, the lower trims have a diagonal insert while the M70 xDrive’s bars are horizontal.
BMW’s Multi-Function massaging seats with adjustable backrest width and lumbar support are, for the first time, now available in the iX with the M Sport Package and as standard equipment on the M70 xDrive. A tow hitch is also available with a maximum towing capacity of 3,500 pounds. Other luxury, convenience and tech options are largely carried over from the existing iX, including ventilated seats (heating is standard), a 30-speaker Bowers & Wilkins surround-sound system, panoramic roof, and automated parking and Highway Assistant hands-free highway driving system.
Availability and Pricing
Sales of the 2026 BMW iX begin in the second quarter of 2025. Pricing is as follows:
- xDrive45: $76,325
- xDrive60: $89,675
- M70 xDrive: $112,675
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