First international drive: BMW iX xDrive45

This new BMW is set to shake things up in the Aussie EV market – something that’s long overdue.

Australia has no shortage of electric SUVs but BMW’s latest iX is one that I think will stand out among the crowded segment.

Due to hit local roads in mid-2025, it’s faster, sleeker and more efficient. So what makes the iX xDrive45 different?

For one, BMW has given it a significant performance boost. Power jumps to 300kW, torque rises to 700Nm and the 0-100 km/h sprint takes just 5.1 seconds, a second quicker than before.

It’s not the fastest in its class but it does well for its size.

Then there’s the range with improved battery (98.4kWh) and improved efficiency, the iX xDrive45 can now travel up to 602km (WLTP) on a single charge, up from 436km in the outgoing iX xDrive40 Sport.

MORE: Iconic car quits Aus amid global collapse

The new iX xDrive45 features significant updates.

In real world conditions, you may not hit that number but it’s still plenty for long road trips or city driving. That’s an increase of nearly 40 per cent. If brands want to compete in the electric space, then a minimum of 600km of range should be standard.

When it does require a top-up, the iX will charge faster thanks to DC fast charging being improved by 175kW. BMW has also integrated silicon carbide semiconductor components for the first time in an EV, boosting energy efficiency and performance.

PERFECT BALANCE OF COMFORT AND AGILITY

On the road, the iX drives beautifully, the chassis has been engineered to balance comfort with agility and the suspension system adeptly absorbs road imperfections.

Surprisingly, it manages to disguise its size well through bends, whether cruising along the coast or pushing a little harder through some winding back roads, it was composed and confident. Its instant power made overtaking and merging seamless.

I’ve driven a lot of electric SUVs but this is one that I won’t forget. It’s not because it’s fast or has the latest technology, but because BMW has found the right balance between performance, luxury, design, safety, efficiency and price.

MORE: Car giant rushes fix for Australia’s ‘most annoying car’

Stands out from the crowd.

When you meet the driver’s expectations, it makes every drive special.

The exterior design is bold with the BMW Kidney Iconic Glow grille with contour lighting, a new feature for the model and will be standard on Australian-delivered iX xDrive45 M Sport variants, and redesigned adaptive LED headlights. 21-inch aerodynamic alloy wheels come standard but designs ranging from 21-23-inch (all fit with a tyre pressure monitoring system) are available.

The M Sport package will be fitted as standard and include M leather steering wheel, two-tone instrument panel, Dark Silver trim finishers and M pedals.

ONE OF THE MOST INTERESTING SUVS

Inside, the cabin shines with M multifunctional sports seats, a panoramic glass roof with (previously an option), heated seats for front row, and heated steering wheel. The material feels premium, and there’s plenty of space, making it a comfortable and inviting space.

There are also new paint options, including Dune Grey metallic and Tanzanite Blue metallic. The BMW cockpit features the latest operating system 8.5 with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

MORE: Iconic Aussie stadium as you’ve never seen it

More than just another EV.

There’s a range of optional extras and packages for those wanting to take it up a notch.

Originally published as First international drive: BMW iX xDrive45