Test: BMW iX1 eDrive20 – The cheapest new X1

I see that new BMW X1 quite often. Are they all EVs?

Certainly not. As with many other models, BMW chooses to base electric i models on existing combustion engine models. An iX1 is therefore virtually identical to a plug-in hybrid X1 or a petrol X1, and distinguishes itself mainly with its drivetrain. This policy does BMW no harm: the brand sells significantly more EVs than competitors Mercedes and Audi.

But there was already an iX1. What’s the news?

The news is the new entry-level version, the eDrive20. It has one electric motor and more than 100 hp less power than the xDrive30, but the same battery pack. With a net 64.8 kWh you can travel 474 kilometers on paper, compared to 439 for the €9,535 more expensive xDrive30. The two are also identical when it comes to fast charging: 130 kW is the max.

That extra range is entirely due to lower power consumption. How efficient is this iX1?

Fairly! We scored a test consumption of 17 kWh per 100 kilometers, which suggests that 16 or less should be possible at higher outside temperatures. Very neat, although the battery is not large enough to get a really large range.

But a lot less power. How many BMWs are left then?

For context: with 150 kW/204 hp, a BMW iX1 eDrive20 is exactly as powerful as a Kia Niro EV. That Kia is known for many things, but not for its all-consuming performance. On the other hand, if you don’t drive too sporty, the entry-level iX1 will certainly suffice. In the petrol era we thought that much power was more than enough for this car, so why not now? At most because of the weight, but at 1,865 kg that is not too bad by EV standards. The fact that the iX1 is a front-wheel drive does not have too many disadvantages in practice. The power is released gradually, so there is a lot of traction, while the iX1 also drives very pleasantly in other areas thanks to sharp, direct steering and a tight but comfortable chassis.

Is the BMW iX1 spacious enough for my children?

If there are two or at most three, probably yes. Due to its front-wheel drive platform, the BMW iX1 is hardly less spacious than the larger and more expensive iX3. The sliding rear seat of the regular X1 is missing, but you still have a three-part adjustable and folding backrest. At 490 liters, the luggage compartment is much larger than that of a competitor such as the Mercedes EQA, which explains why we will soon compare this iX1 with an EQB.

Is there anything new with the iX1 besides the drivetrain?

Two things: the iX1-specific, closed ‘grille’ and a new infotainment system. Operating System 9 looks and feels like the ‘old’ iDrive, but is completely different and Android-based. It works fine and is laid out a bit smarter here and there than before, although a few extra physical buttons would certainly not be out of place in the (i)X1.

So is the BMW iX1 eDrive20 preferable to the BMW iX1 xDrive30?

That is partly personal, but we certainly do not advise against it. The money you save by going for the smaller version can be wasted on an options list full of tempting treats. This way you can still keep the purchase price and/or additional tax within limits, and you can drive a luxurious, practical and representative BMW for around 60 grand that scores decently as an EV and even better as a car.