BMW engineers are definitely making
progress in developing the SUV which is also referred to as the BMW iNext or
iX5 (the official name has not been confirmed yet). These latest spy shots give
us the best look yet at the BMW iX as our photographers were able to get very
close to two prototypes caught in stop and go traffic in Munich, Germany. Both
vehicles wore less camouflage than ever before, with the close-up shots
revealing some interesting details.
At the front, it looks like the DRLs with
switch from the traditional “angel-eyes” to something looking more like
eyebrows at the top of the headlights. We can also see the shape of the
headlights, grille and pretty much the complete design of the front bumper. We
already know that the massive closed-off kidneys will serve as the car’s
“eyes”, housing all the tech needed for Level 3 semi-autonomous driving.
Out back, we get a pretty good look at the
taillight graphics even if parts of the horizontal lamps are covered up.
Another interesting detail is the massive tailgate which a wide aperture that
includes the taillights. The BMW iX reveals a C-pillar
treatment that reminds of the i3 urban EV and an alloy wheel design we haven’t
seen before. We don’t get to see much of the interior in these images but
previous spy shots have revealed a generous curved display dominating the
dashboard. The interface controls the entertainment system, augmented
navigation, and climate functions, among other things.
The BMW iX
will offer three powertrain configurations, all based on the brand’s
fifth-generation eDrive system and using an 80 kWh battery. The entry-level
model is said to boast 308 HP, likely from a single electric motor
similar to the BMW iX3. The mid-range iX will have 522 HP, while the
range-topper will offer 610 HP. Both variants are expected to feature
a dual-motor setup and AWD. BMW is expected to debut the iX in the coming
months, though production will start in July 2021. This likely means the
electric SUV will reach North America as a 2022 model.
