2026 BMW iX xDrive45 Evaluation: Vary, Efficiency, and Worth

BMW’s iX has been one of many model’s most attention-grabbing electrical experiments—high-tech, luxurious, and controversial in design. However till now, the U.S. market lacked an entry-level model that really made monetary sense. Enter the 2026 BMW iX xDrive45, a direct alternative for the iX 40 offered in Europe, now arriving within the U.S. with extra energy, improved vary, and a value lower. Beginning at $76,325, the iX 45 undercuts the iX 50 (now referred to as iX 60) by $12,000, making it BMW’s most inexpensive electrical SUV. However is that this only a budget-friendly model, or does it deliver significant upgrades? I had an opportunity to drive the brand new iX 45 in Barcelona, again to again with the iX M70.

Refined Design with Refined Enhancements

The 2026 facelift doesn’t drastically alter the iX’s appears to be like, however there are sufficient design adjustments to offer it a brand new life. The kidney grille’s dimension stays the identical, however the graphics are completely different. Whereas the iX M70 will get horizontal bars within the kidneys, the iX 45 and iX 60 takes a distinct method with slanted traces which remind us of the bottom BMW iX G45. The new, slimmer headlights with vertical LED signatures are the identical as on the iX M70 and, as soon as once more, it appears to arrange us for the upcoming Neue Klasse design language. On the rear, redesigned bumpers and vertical reflectors give the iX a wider stance. The wheel lineup consists of contemporary 22-inch designs, however you’ll be able to order any wheels from 20 to 23 inches in dimension. 

Extra Energy, Larger Battery, Longer Vary

The 2026 BMW iX 45 isn’t only a new badge—it’s a big improve over the outgoing iX 40. Energy jumps to 402 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque, an enhance of 82 hp over the earlier mannequin. This cuts the 0-60 mph time to 4.9 seconds, a full second faster than earlier than. However the actual headline is vary. Due to a bigger 100.1 kWh battery pack, the brand new BMW iX 45 now achieves a WLTP vary of 490-602 km (305-374 miles), with an estimated EPA vary of 312 miles. That’s a 41% enchancment over the pre-facelift iX 40.

Charging stays capped although at simply 175 kW, that means a 10-80% recharge takes about 34 minutes—only a minute longer than earlier than, regardless of the larger battery. I do want BMW would have provided the 195 kW from the iX 60 and iX M70 since, in my view, charging instances are extra vital than vary.

Extra Effectivity, Smarter Engineering

For the reason that iX xDrive45 encompasses a bigger battery than the outgoing iX 40, BMW has not solely elevated capability but in addition made focused effectivity enhancements to maximise vary. The new silicon carbide inverters play a serious position, enhancing power conversion effectivity by about one-third. Moreover, friction-optimized wheel bearings contribute an additional 3 km to the WLTP vary, whereas A-label rated tires assist cut back rolling resistance for higher general effectivity. Even the redesigned headlights and bonnet have been aerodynamically refined, including one other 3 km to the automobile’s complete vary.

How Does It Drive? A Balanced Strategy

The 2026 BMW iX xDrive 45 would be the entry-level mannequin, but it surely doesn’t really feel like a base model on the highway. In Sport Mode, the steering tightens up, the throttle response sharpens, and the adaptive suspension stiffens, making the iX 45 surprisingly satisfying on twisty roads. I’ve solely briefly drove the iX 40 in Europe just a few years in the past, so my reminiscence won’t be contemporary sufficient. However this iX 45 feels a bit sportier within the highest setting and appears to cover its weight a bit higher. 

However it was the Consolation mode that I used to be largely desirous about. The bottom and center variants of the iX lineup (40 and 50) all the time felt like a Magic Carpet on the highway. The air suspension was extraordinarily plush and forgiving, making every day driving easy and satisfying. I’m glad to report that the Consolation mode is now even softer absorbing the bumps and potholes with ease.

How was that completed? BMW has reworked the suspension tuning as a result of further weight from the bigger battery pack. The new suspension calibration gives a extra refined steadiness between consolation and agility. The experience stays softer than within the iX M70, however the physique management is well-managed, making it a strong freeway cruiser that also feels succesful on a backroad. 

Regenerative braking stays adjustable, permitting drivers to decide on between one-pedal driving or a extra conventional braking really feel. The torque supply is easy and responsive, making freeway merges and passing easy. In comparison with the iX M70, which might be brutally quick, the facility and torque supply within the iX xDrive45 is extra gradual, delivering a smoother, extra balanced expertise. 

Inside Upgrades – Small Fixes That Matter

Inside, all the pieces is sort of the identical, however the seats. Oh, the seats! BMW has lastly listened to its prospects and are providing correct seats. The newly obtainable, however non-compulsory within the iX 45, M Sport seats lastly tackle one of many greatest complaints from earlier iX fashions—flat cushions and poor thigh help. As somebody 6’2” (188 cm) tall, I instantly seen the longer seat base and higher bolstering, which retains you correctly supported on lengthy drives.

The hexagonal steering wheel stays within the base fashions, however now you can possibility a conventional spherical wheel, which feels much better for spirited driving. One ergonomic flaw stays—the floating middle console. It’s nonetheless awkwardly positioned, making it a little bit of a stretch to seize drinks or small gadgets. BMW possible didn’t wish to redesign the whole inside for a facelift (expensive), however that is one space that might nonetheless be improved.

A Extra Inexpensive iX for the U.S.

For a lot of patrons, the 2026 BMW iX xDrive45 is essentially the most logical alternative within the lineup. It delivers extra vary than the iX 60, extra affordability than the iX M70, and sufficient energy for every day use. At $76,325, the 2026 BMW iX xDrive45 lastly provides U.S. patrons a extra inexpensive entry into BMW’s electrical SUV lineup. With a $12,000 value drop in comparison with the iX 60, and potential federal EV tax credit, it turns into one of many best-value BMW EVs on sale.

If you happen to’re in search of a well-balanced, luxurious EV that doesn’t break the financial institution, that is the one to get. Simply be sure that to possibility the M Sport seats—they’re price it.