The BMW iX xDrive50 is here to redefine luxury EV benchmarks, enhancing an already accomplished platform with more power, extended range, advanced features, and a design that continues to turn heads. Tested on the bustling streets of Pune and the flowing lanes of the Pune-Mumbai Expressway, this electric marvel proved to be a technological and dynamic tour de force. From its commanding presence to its jaw-dropping performance, the iX xDrive50 is not just an electric SUV—it’s an experience.

Head-Turning Futuristic Design

The BMW iX’s design remains divisive, but that’s the hallmark of innovation. The oversized kidney grille—now a BMW signature—may polarize opinions, but the rest of the SUV’s clean, futuristic lines strike a balance between sophistication and boldness. During our test, the Storm Bay paint finish, with subtle blue and gold flakes, caught the sunlight beautifully, adding layers of allure. Optional titanium bronze accents on the window trims, door handles, and grille graphics further enhanced the iX’s visual appeal.

Riding on massive 22-inch aerodynamically optimised wheels, the xDrive50 commands attention as few vehicles can. Whether parked in Pune’s upscale areas or gliding through expressway traffic, the iX xDrive50’s bold stance and avant-garde design ensured a steady stream of admiring—and sometimes bewildered—glances.

Interiors

Step inside the iX xDrive50, and you’re greeted by an interior that feels more like a luxury lounge than a car cabin. The light oyster-coloured seats in our test car, complemented by crystal switches and open-pore wood accents, created a serene and inviting atmosphere. The panoramic glass roof, which can be electronically dimmed, further added to the cabin’s airy feel.

The hexagonal steering wheel may take some getting used to, but the overall design layout is intuitive and driver-focused. At the heart of the dashboard is a dual-curved display that seamlessly integrates the 12.3-inch driver’s display and the 14.9-inch touchscreen infotainment system. While feature-rich, the interface can feel overwhelming due to its complexity.

Rear-seat comfort is where the iX truly shines. The seats are plush, and spacious, and offer excellent under-thigh support, making long journeys incredibly comfortable. Rear passengers also benefit from dedicated climate controls and optional entertainment displays, reinforcing the iX’s focus on luxury.

Performance

The highlight of the iX xDrive50 is undoubtedly its enhanced powertrain. Packing a 111.5kWh battery (105.2kWh usable) and dual electric motors, the SUV produces a staggering 523hp and 765Nm of torque—a significant leap from the xDrive40’s already respectable 326hp and 630Nm.

On the Pune-Mumbai Expressway, the iX xDrive50’s performance was nothing short of exhilarating. The acceleration is instant and brutal—0 to 100 km/h in just 4.5 seconds—making overtakes effortless. Every press of the accelerator unleashed a torrent of power, pinning occupants to their seats with a ferocity that rivals supercars. Even at highway speeds, the power delivery felt endless, inspiring confidence during overtakes and cruising.

BMW’s all-wheel-drive system ensures excellent grip, even on uneven or dusty roads. However, the sheer power demands restraint in urban environments, where the SUV’s torque can feel overwhelming in Sport mode. Switching to Comfort mode softens its demeanour, making it more approachable for city driving.

Range and Charging

The most significant upgrade in the xDrive50 is its larger battery, translating to a claimed WLTP range of 635km. In real-world testing—a blend of Pune’s stop-go traffic and expressway cruising—the iX delivered an impressive 511km, making it the segment leader. For long-distance travellers, this range alleviates range anxiety, enabling uninterrupted trips between Pune and Mumbai or even longer journeys.

Charging capabilities are equally advanced. The iX supports DC fast charging up to 195kW, adding 150km of range in just 10 minutes and achieving an 80% charge in approximately 35 minutes. For home charging, an optional 22kW AC charger reduces the time to a full charge to about five hours, making overnight recharge effortless.

Ride and Handling

The standard air suspension in the xDrive50 elevates its already remarkable ride quality. On Pune’s unpredictable roads, the suspension absorbed imperfections with ease, ensuring a plush experience for passengers. The system’s adaptive dampers offer a wide range of adjustability, allowing the SUV to switch between a soft, cloud-like ride and firmer settings for spirited driving.

On the expressway, the air suspension automatically lowers the car by 10mm at speeds over 140 km/h, improving aerodynamic efficiency. This, coupled with precise steering, made the iX a joy to drive at high speeds. However, in tight corners, the SUV’s 2.5-tonne weight and soft suspension setup slightly dulled its edge, making it less agile than some of BMW’s ICE-powered SUVs.

Real-Life Drama: The iX Stuns on the Expressway

Our highway test wasn’t just a technical evaluation; it turned into an unplanned showcase of the iX’s capabilities. As we cruised along the Pune-Mumbai Expressway, a convoy of luxury SUVs pulled alongside, curious about the iX. What followed was an impromptu display of the xDrive50’s prowess. With a firm press of the accelerator, the BMW surged ahead, leaving its ICE-powered counterparts in awe.

The excitement didn’t end there. At a charging station in Lonavala, a small crowd gathered around the iX, peppering us with questions about its range, features, and, of course, the price. It was clear that the iX had captured the imagination of onlookers, proving that BMW’s bold design and electric ambitions were striking the right chords.

The Verdict: A Worthy Investment in the Future

At ₹1.40 crore (ex-showroom), the BMW iX xDrive50 is undoubtedly a significant investment. However, it justifies its price tag with a blend of luxury, performance, range, and sustainability unmatched in its segment. While the touchscreen interface could be more intuitive and the handling less sharp than BMW purists might expect, these are minor quibbles in an otherwise exceptional package.

Whether you’re a tech enthusiast drawn to its cutting-edge features or a luxury seeker craving comfort and exclusivity, the iX xDrive50 delivers on all fronts. With its head-turning design, commanding road presence, and thrilling performance, the BMW iX xDrive50 isn’t just a car—it’s a statement.

For those ready to embrace the electric future, the BMW iX xDrive50 makes a compelling case for itself, setting new benchmarks in the world of luxury electric SUVs.