Bold design and technological elements make the BMW iX one of the most engaging electric SUVs to enter the market. You’ll see massive grille panels on the front, thin headlights, a shakeup to the BMW styling, and an aggressive stance. The iX rides silently along the road with the electric luxury qualities you desire from this industry-leading company. There’s just something a little different about this BMW compared to other luxury SUVs in the brand’s lineup.

What do you call the steering wheel shape in the BMW iX?

It’s hard to decide what shape BMW wanted when they created the odd-shaped steering wheel of the iX. It’s not round like a normal wheel, but it also doesn’t have a true flat-bottom look to it. The sides kind of bulge out as if trying to be a hexagon but not quite there. It is a strange shape, but it could be that singular, unique feature that you admire about this electric SUV.

What do experts think of this electric luxury SUV?

Consumer Reports tested the BMW iX and found it to be quiet, comfortable, and quick. The driving experience seems mostly to fit the BMW DNA, except for the handling. The handling is good, but not at the level you typically expect from this brand. The interior controls aren’t as intuitive as they are for other BMW models. Even if you’ve driven BMW SUVs before, you’ll need some time to get used to this one.

Normalized braking for the iX

The regenerative braking system is one of the biggest complaints/challenges many drivers face when moving from a gas-powered car to an EV. Older EVs were jarring and didn’t seem to care how they treated you; the idea was to pull as much energy from the braking function as possible. The BMW iX offers a pleasantly normalized braking system that gives the driver control over how aggressive the regenerative system functions.

How many seats does a BMW iX have?

This electric luxury SUV seats five people comfortably. The flat floor in the cabin gives that middle seat more legroom than they would have in a gas-powered vehicle. Behind the rear seats is 35.5 cubic feet of cargo room for the gear you’ll need to carry with you. This expansive space makes it simple for parents to carry school projects, band equipment, sporting equipment, or other necessities for their kids on the way to school and activities.

Is the base model quick?

EVs are quick and can punch hard off the line. The instant torque of an electric motor is one reason why these powertrains are ideal for some quick off-the-line fun, even when you’re sitting in traffic. According to Inside EVs, the xDrive 40 model of the BMW iX accelerates quickly despite being the base trim. This model uses an electric motor at each axle but offers the lower power and range for the iX. This version delivers 326 horsepower and 464 lb.-ft. of torque while offering a 264-mile driving range.

Does the BMW iX have rear-wheel steering?

For you to enjoy the benefits of rear-wheel steering in the BMW iX, you’ll have to move up to the xDrive50 version of this luxury SUV. This model not only brings the rear-wheel steering you want but delivers 516 horsepower and 564 lb.-ft. of torque and a 315-mile driving range. According to Car and Driver, you can rocket to 60 mph in only four seconds in the xDrive50 model.

Is this a luxury SUV you should buy?

If you’re looking for an electric SUV with traditional BMW qualities, the iX doesn’t hit that mark. The controls are different from most BMW models, the handling isn’t as precise, and that steering wheel is what you’ve got to look at during every drive. On the other hand, if you like the shape and feel of the steering wheel, want a quick electric luxury SUV, and want a large rear cargo hold, the iX can be the right SUV for you.