BMW has unveiled a mid-life facelift for its electric flagship, the iX, bringing enhanced performance, improved efficiency, and minor styling tweaks. While the exterior changes are subtle, the biggest updates come under the skin, with more powerful electric motors, upgraded battery technology, and fine-tuned aerodynamics. The revised lineup is set to arrive in the UK in May 2025, with prices starting at £74,400.
Updated Performance Across the Range
BMW has renamed and restructured the iX lineup, reflecting the increased power across all variants:
- iX xDrive45 (previously xDrive40) now produces 402bhp, up by 80bhp, and 516lb ft of torque, allowing for a 374-mile range from its upgraded 94.8kWh battery.
- iX xDrive60 M Sport (previously xDrive50) delivers 536bhp and 564lb ft, utilizing a larger 109.1kWh battery for a 426-mile range, a notable 34-mile increase from its predecessor.
- iX M70 xDrive (replacing the M60) is now the range-topper, boasting 659bhp and up to 811lb ft of torque with launch control. It sprints from 0-62mph in 3.8 seconds and has a 366-mile range, but its high output reduces efficiency slightly.
Despite these performance upgrades, BMW has worked to improve efficiency through new silicon-carbide inverter technology, reducing power losses and increasing overall range. The updated iX models consume over 8% less energy according to WLTP test results.
Charging and Battery Upgrades
BMW has also enhanced charging capabilities across the lineup:
- The xDrive45 now supports 175kW rapid charging, allowing a 10-80% charge in under 30 minutes.
- The xDrive60 and M70 xDrive offer 195kW fast charging, further reducing downtime on long journeys.
Chassis and Suspension Improvements
To handle the additional power and battery weight, BMW has refined the suspension and chassis:
- The M70 xDrive receives adaptive air suspension with ride-level control, M-specific suspension tuning, electronically controlled shock absorbers, and active rear-wheel steering for sharper handling.
- Across the lineup, a new hydraulic rear axle support bearing has been introduced to enhance ride comfort and stability.
Subtle Exterior Updates and a New Light-Up Grille
The facelifted iX retains its distinctive design, but BMW has made subtle refinements, including:
- A revised front bumper with less aggressive air intakes for a cleaner look.
- A more structured, blocky LED headlight design.
- A revamped kidney grille, now featuring vertical line elements that integrate with the headlights to reduce visual bulk.
Perhaps the most controversial change is the introduction of ‘BMW Iconic Glow’, an illuminated kidney grille, which is optional on lower trims but standard on the M70 xDrive.
Interior and Technology Updates
Inside, the iX remains largely unchanged, retaining the curved dual-screen setup running BMW Operating System 8.5. However, the facelifted model does not yet feature BMW’s upcoming panoramic display technology from the Neue Klasse models.
For personalization, seven new exterior colors have been added, while the M Sport models receive sportier bumpers, gloss black trim, M-spec sports seats, and a three-spoke leather steering wheel.
Pricing and Availability
The updated BMW iX will be available in the UK starting May 2025, with the following pricing:
- iX xDrive45 – £74,400
- iX xDrive60 M Sport – £92,200
- iX M70 xDrive – £113,300 (a notable £11,000 drop from the outgoing M60)
While the styling updates are subtle, the performance and efficiency gains make the 2025 BMW iX a more compelling electric SUV. With increased range, faster charging, and significant power upgrades, BMW aims to keep the iX competitive against rivals like the Audi Q8 e-tron and Volvo EX90. The addition of luxury-focused M Sport features and a more refined chassis setup further enhances its appeal. However, the optional illuminated grille is likely to divide opinions among BMW enthusiasts.
