2026 BMW iX

The BMW iX might look unconventional, but it is anything but unrewarding. Exuding sophistication, packed with performance, and offering plenty of room for five people and 35.5 cubic feet of their belongings, the iX is a technologically advanced midsize luxury electric SUV. It's about the size of a BMW X5, provides up to about 360 miles of estimated range, and can reach 60 mph faster than a Porsche 911 Carrera. The iX is our top-rated luxury EV SUV for good reason, and for the 2026 model year, BMW makes it even better.

Besides a cosmetic nip here and a comfort tuck there, the changes to the 2026 BMW iX relate to the EV's electric drive systems. A new iX xDrive45 model debuts with a dual-motor drivetrain making 402 horsepower and priced more than $13,000 lower than the most affordable 2025 version. The iX xDrive60 replaces last year's xDrive50, bringing more horsepower and range for the new model year. At the top of the lineup, BMW swaps the M60 xDrive for the new M70 xDrive, which boasts a 40-horsepower bump. More efficient batteries, enhanced brake energy recuperation, revised suspension tuning, and more convenient charging are also on the menu of updates for 2026.

While the 2026 BMW iX has a lower base price than before, it still commands a premium over gas-fueled alternatives like its X5 sibling. One of this electric BMW's primary rivals is the Mercedes-Benz EQE SUV, which is about the same size and price as the iX, while the Polestar 3 is new to the segment, wrapped in appealing Scandinavian design. If you're looking for something more rugged-looking and capable off-road, the boxy Rivian R1S is another iX alternative. For more guidance, read our full Expert Rating of the BMW iX.

If you want to know what it's like to live with a BMW iX, you're in luck. Edmunds has lived with one, racking up over 17,000 miles in the process. Get all the details and our test team's opinions by reading our One-Year Road Test of the 2022 BMW iX xDrive50.