Summary
- 2026 BMW iX has more range and power, with a price cut and expanded lineup starting at $76,325
- The new iX xDrive45 has 402 hp and 516 lb-ft of torque, with slightly more range than the previous model
- Middle-grade xDrive60 starts at $89,675 with 536 hp and 564 lb-ft, and the top-grade M70 xDrive starts at $112,675 with 650 hp and 811 lb-ft
- All models have new inverters and battery management systems for better powertrain efficiency
- The updated iX will debut in the second quarter of the year and bridge the gap between current BMW EVs and next-generation models.
Article
The 2026 BMW iX electric crossover has undergone a refresh that includes updated styling, improvements to range and power, and a price cut thanks to the addition of a new entry-level grade. The new iX xDrive45 grade starts at $76,325, which is significantly cheaper than the previous entry-level grade. This model features standard dual-motor all-wheel drive with an output of 402 hp and 516 lb-ft of torque, allowing for a 0-60 mph time of 4.9 seconds.
The iX xDrive45 also offers slightly more range than the 2025 model, with a maximum range of 312 miles from a 100.1-kwh battery pack. The mid-range xDrive60 model starts at $89,675 and features 536 hp and 564 lb-ft of torque, while the range-topping M70 xDrive model is priced at $112,675 and offers 650 hp and 811 lb-ft with launch control. All models have a maximum Level 2 AC charging rate of 11 kw and can DC fast-charge at varying rates.
The range improvements in the 2026 iX are attributed to new inverters with silicon-carbide semiconductor components, a new battery management system, and new cell chemistry that provides greater energy density. All iX models come standard with a heat pump to maximize efficiency in cold weather. The styling of the iX has also been updated to bring it closer to traditional SUVs in appearance, with more prominent wheel arches and a squared-off front fascia.
Production of the 2026 BMW iX will begin in March in Germany, with U.S. deliveries expected in the second quarter. The updated iX will serve as a bridge between current BMW EVs based on internal-combustion platforms and the next-generation Neue Klasse models, which will introduce a new architecture specifically designed for EVs from the ground up. Overall, the updates to the 2026 iX offer improved performance, increased range, and a lower price point, making it a competitive option in the electric crossover market.
In terms of charging capabilities, all iX models have a maximum Level 2 AC charging rate of 11 kw. The base xDrive45 model can DC fast-charge at 175 kw, while the other two models can charge at 195 kw. BMW is also expected to offer Tesla Supercharger access later in the year using adapters, although it is unclear when the automaker will start producing cars with Tesla-style NACS ports. The 2026 iX is equipped with the latest operating system, which allows for more functions such as gaming and video streaming, making it a more advanced and enjoyable driving experience for users.
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