2026 BMW IX Gains a Lot of Power, Range and a Lower Entry Price
BMW is stepping up its electric vehicle (EV) game with the refreshed 2026 BMW iX electric crossover, offering better performance, enhanced efficiency, and a more affordable starting price. With an updated design and advanced technology, the new iX is set to appeal to both luxury SUV enthusiasts and eco-conscious drivers. If you’ve been considering an electric BMW, now might be the perfect time. Let’s break down what’s new and why this next-gen iX could be a game-changer.
Lower Entry Price the iX Lineup
One of the biggest updates for the 2026 BMW iX is the introduction of a new entry-level trim, the xDrive45, which starts at $76,325 (including destination charges). This marks an $11,920 price reduction compared to last year’s base model, making the luxury electric SUV more accessible to a wider range of buyers.
Even at a lower price, the xDrive45 doesn’t compromise on performance. It comes standard with dual-motor all-wheel drive, producing 402 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque, allowing it to accelerate from 0-60 mph in just 4.9 seconds.
And when it comes to range, the xDrive45 delivers 312 miles on a full charge—slightly more than last year’s max of 309 miles. This efficiency is achieved despite using a smaller 100.1 kWh battery pack, compared to the higher-end trims.
More Power and Performance Across the Lineup
For those looking for more power and range, BMW is also upgrading the mid-tier xDrive60 and the high-performance M70 xDrive models.
🔹 iX xDrive60 ($89,675)
- 536 horsepower, 564 lb-ft torque
- 0-60 mph in 4.4 seconds
- 340-mile range (from a 113.4 kWh battery pack)
🔹 iX M70 xDrive ($112,675) – The Sportiest iX
- 650 horsepower, 811 lb-ft torque (with launch control!)
- 0-60 mph in 3.6 seconds
- 302-mile range (from a 112.8 kWh battery pack)
- Top speed of 155 mph (higher than the other two trims, which are limited to 124 mph)
Even though horsepower and torque have increased, BMW hasn’t changed the 0-60 mph times for the xDrive60 and M70 models. However, the M70 xDrive now replaces the previous M60 as the ultimate performance variant, making it the top choice for drivers who crave power.
Improved Efficiency and Faster Charging
The 2026 BMW iX benefits from a more advanced powertrain, improving both range and charging capabilities.
More Efficient Batteries: BMW has introduced new silicon-carbide inverters and upgraded battery chemistry, allowing for higher energy density and better overall efficiency.
Cold Weather Performance: All iX models now come standard with a heat pump, helping to maximize efficiency in colder climates.
Fast Charging Capabilities:
- The xDrive45 can DC fast-charge at 175 kW
- The xDrive60 and M70 can DC fast-charge at 195 kW
- All models support 11 kW Level 2 AC charging
BMW has confirmed that CCS charging ports will remain standard for now, though the company plans to offer Tesla Supercharger access later this year via adapters. It’s still unclear when BMW will transition to NACS (Tesla’s charging standard) on its vehicles.
Refreshed Styling
The BMW iX’s bold design has been a topic of debate since its debut in 2022, but BMW has made some subtle refinements with this refresh.
- More Prominent Wheel Arches – Giving it a stronger SUV stance
- Squared-Off Front Fascia – Making it look more traditional and aggressive
- Sleeker Overall Appearance – Pulling back from the controversial “oversized grille” look
Inside, the massive curved dashboard display remains, but BMW’s latest operating system adds new functions, including gaming and video streaming—a feature that’s becoming more common in luxury EVs.
Bridging the Gap to BMW’s Future EVs
The 2026 iX refresh isn’t just about improving the current model—it also serves as a bridge to BMW’s next-generation EVs, which will be built on the Neue Klasse platform.
BMW’s Neue Klasse models, set to launch in the coming years, will be the company’s first EVs built from the ground up—instead of being adapted from gas-powered platforms. This means even better range, faster charging, and cutting-edge tech innovations.
For now, the updated iX lineup is a strong contender in the growing luxury EV segment, competing with models like the Tesla Model X, Audi Q8 e-tron, and Mercedes EQE SUV.
With a lower starting price, better range, and more power, the 2026 BMW iX is shaping up to be an even more compelling choice for luxury EV buyers.
✅ More Affordable Entry Model – The xDrive45 starts at $76,325, making it $11,920 cheaper than last year’s base model.
✅ More Range & Power – Improved battery efficiency and new performance enhancements across the lineup.
✅ Fast Charging & Better Tech – BMW’s latest updates bring gaming, video streaming, and future Supercharger access.
Whether you’re looking for a practical luxury EV with solid range or a high-performance electric SUV, the new iX lineup has something for everyone. Would you consider buying the 2026 BMW iX?
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