BMW iX1 2024 Review

As the C-segment all-electric SUV market in Malaysia gradually reaches saturation, consumers are no longer satisfied with just the "electric" label. They are demanding a more balanced approach to design, space, configuration, and range. The 2024 BMW iX1 eDrive20 M Sport, as a new contender in this segment, is priced at RM249,800, offering an official range of 475 km and featuring the M Sport package as its core selling points. It accurately targets users who aspire to own a luxury brand identity while pursuing practical everyday usability. This test drive will fully evaluate the static experience and dynamic performance to see whether this front-wheel-drive electric SUV can stand out amid the competition.

The exterior of the iX1 eDrive20 M Sport continues BMW's family design language while incorporating electric vehicle-specific features in its details. The vehicle dimensions are 4500mm×1845mm×1642mm, with a wheelbase of 2692mm, marking standard C-segment SUV proportions. The front adopts a closed double kidney grille, complemented by the M Sport-exclusive black trim and sporty air intakes on both sides of the front bumper, making it highly recognizable; the side profile features sleek lines, 19-inch dual-tone alloy wheels (tire specification 245/45 R19), and chrome trim along the window edges, enhancing its refined feel; the rear showcases L-shaped LED taillights that echo the front design, while the diffuser-style rear bumper further accentuates its sporty character. Standard across the car are full LED lighting systems, including daytime running lights, automatic headlights, and front and rear fog lights, which provide clear visual effects at night with a sense of technological modernity.

Opening the door, the interior strikes a balance between luxury and technology. The center console features an asymmetrical design, tilted towards the driver for easier operation; materials include a large area of soft leather and metal trims, offering a delicate tactile experience; a 10.25-inch fully digital instrument panel and a 10.7-inch central touchscreen form a dual-screen setup equipped with BMW's iDrive system, which offers a smooth interface and supports voice control. In terms of configuration, features like a HUD head-up display, keyless entry/start, front power-adjustable seats (with memory function), dual-zone automatic climate control, and independent rear air vents are all standard, maximizing practicality. The space performance is commendable, with a front-row passenger of 180cm having a fist's worth of headroom, while passengers of similar stature in the rear enjoy over two fists of legroom and four fingers of headroom. The trunk provides a capacity of 490L and supports a 60/40 split-folding rear seat design, which can expand the storage space to accommodate family trips or large items.

In terms of power, the iX1 eDrive20 M Sport features a front-mounted permanent magnet synchronous motor, delivering a maximum power output of 150kW (204PS) and a peak torque of 250N·m, paired with an electric single-speed transmission. During daily driving, the power response is quick, with a light and smooth start. The official 0-100km/h acceleration time is 8.6 seconds, which may not be aggressive but is more than sufficient for urban commuting and highway overtaking. The driving modes include Eco, Comfort, and Sport. In Eco mode, power delivery is more gentle, suitable for energy-saving daily driving; in Sport mode, the throttle becomes more sensitive, with a more direct acceleration feel. The chassis adopts a front MacPherson strut and rear multi-link independent suspension. The tuning leans towards comfort without losing elasticity, effectively filtering out vibrations when passing speed bumps or uneven roads, ensuring that rear passengers do not feel significant jolts. During high-speed cornering, body roll is well controlled, and the steering wheel offers precise turning and clear directionality, providing the driver with ample confidence.

Range and charging performance are key indicators of pure electric vehicles. This car is equipped with a 64.8kWh lithium iron phosphate battery, with an official range of 475km. In actual tests, under urban congested conditions (with air conditioning on), the range achievement rate is around 85%; under highway conditions (at a speed of 110km/h), the achievement rate is around 75%. The combined range is approximately between 380-400km, making it stress-free for a week's commute. Fast charging time is 0.5 hours (30%-80%), while slow charging takes about 7 hours to fully charge, making it suitable for home charging stations or public fast-charging stations. Noise control performance is excellent; at speeds below 60km/h, motor noise is almost inaudible, and wind and road noise are within an acceptable range at high speeds. The energy recovery has three adjustable levels. At the highest level, releasing the accelerator has an obvious drag effect, resembling the braking experience of fuel vehicles, while the lowest level is closer to coasting. Once accustomed, it can effectively enhance the range.

Overall, the 2024 BMW iX1 eDrive20 M Sport's core advantage lies in its balanced performance under the influence of the luxury brand: sporty yet refined design, rich interior configuration, practical space, and range that meets daily needs. Meanwhile, its price of RM249,800 offers certain cost-effectiveness among luxury compact electric SUVs in the same segment (compared to competitors like the Mercedes-Benz EQA, the iX1 has advantages in space and configuration). However, it also has some minor shortcomings, such as a steering wheel that only supports manual adjustment and room for improvement in highway range achievement. This car is more suitable for families focusing on brand quality and daily practicality, or young consumers with a budget of around RM250,000 looking to buy a luxury electric SUV. Overall, the iX1 eDrive20 M Sport is a "well-rounded" electric SUV that has solidified its position in the niche market with balanced strengths.