Update (November 7, 2025): ‘Design,’ and ‘Interior’ sections have been corrected with M Sport package details.
Earlier this year, BMW revealed the facelifted iX for the global market, which was subsequently launched in the U.S. for the 2026 model year. We got to experience the facelifted midsize luxury SUV in Zurich recently in the mid-spec xDrive60 variant, and here are the changes that we found.
Design
The 2026 BMW iX keeps the same design. Most body parts are now painted in the same color, and unnecessary lines have been reduced. Right away, we notice new vertical elements in the headlamps and bumper.
The revised grille remains closed since there’s no engine under the bonnet. It hides sensors and cameras behind a smooth surface, and as before, its coating can self-repair small scratches when exposed to heat. The BMW badge doubles as the washer fluid filler.
The headlights are thinner and have vertical LED daytime running lights. The M Sport package adds a front bumper with wide gloss black trim and splitter, a rear bumper with a glossy diffuser element, and larger wheels, up to 22 inches. The M70 xDrive version includes these parts as standard and offers a 22-inch wheel unique to that trim.
A new 23-inch option is available across the range for the first time. Ten paint colors will be offered, including Arctic Race Blue, Dune Grey, Carbon Black, and Frozen Pure Grey. At the back, narrow taillamps and a wide rear bumper keep the iX’s identity familiar. Frameless doors and flush handles are carried over for a smooth side profile.
Interior
The facelifted iX features the same dashboard with a single curved display combining a 12.3-inch instrument screen and a 14.9-inch control display. Most functions are operated through the screen or voice control, with fewer physical buttons.
Three interior styles are available. Atelier uses synthetic leather in Black, Oyster, or Mocha. Loft combines fabric and microfiber with stitching details. Suite uses naturally tanned leather in darker tones. The materials include recycled and plant-based elements. Heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and a Harman Kardon sound system are standard.
With the facelift, the M Sport package receives new sport seats with wider bolsters, adjustable lumbar and side support, and optional ventilation and massage. The top M70 xDrive model includes these seats as standard, and has unique accents. Other available features include a heated interior surfaces package, a glass roof with adjustable dimming, and a 30-speaker Bowers & Wilkins sound system.
Experience in the BMW iX Facelift
Ingress in the facelifted BMW iX is straightforward. I had experienced the pre-facelift model last year, and the updates here feel subtle. Once seated, it’s clear that this isn’t a conversion EV. The flat floor and pass-through layout between the front seats immediately make the cabin feel more open. The new front seats, which are part of the M Sport package, are sporty yet comfortable, offering excellent back and under-thigh support.
The fixed headrests are well-padded and supportive, and both armrests feel generous. At six feet tall, I had more than enough headroom, and finding my driving position was quick. The steering wheel feels compact and sporty, and outward visibility is very good thanks to large glass surfaces and wide quarter windows. The infotainment responds to both touch and the rotary controller on the center console, and I liked having both options.
The center console is thoughtfully designed, with cupholders, a wireless charger, USB-C ports, and a deep compartment under the armrest.
Moving to the rear, ingress is easy, and space is generous. Knee room is good, though the floor is slightly high, creating a mild knee-up posture. The backrest angle is comfortable, and there’s excellent headroom even for taller passengers.
Rear occupants get dual-zone climate control, seat heating, USB-C ports mounted on the seatbacks, and AC vents on the pillars for better airflow. The wide windows and touches like coat hooks and phone storage add to the practicality.
Specifications
BMW offers three versions of the iX globally, and all three variants have seen re-tuning of the powertrain. The iX xDrive45 produces 408 hp and 516 lb-ft of torque, giving it 0-62 mph in 5.1 seconds and a WLTP range between 305 and 374 miles.
The xDrive60, which is shown in this article, increases output to 544 hp and 564 lb-ft, reaching 62 mph in 4.6 seconds and covering 350-435 miles per charge. The M70 xDrive, which replaces the iX M60, has 659 hp and 811 lb-ft, doing 0-62 mph in 3.8 seconds with a top speed of 155 mph.
Battery sizes are 94.8 kWh (xDrive45), 109.1 kWh (xDrive60), and 108.9 kWh (M70). The iX can charge up to 22 kW on AC power and 175-195 kW on DC fast chargers, depending on the version. Charging from 10 to 80 percent takes about 35 minutes and can add up to 217 miles in 10 minutes.
A new heat-pump system improves efficiency in cold or hot weather in the facelift.
Pricing
In the United States, the 2026 BMW iX lineup (MSRP) starts with the xDrive45 priced at USD 75,150, followed by the xDrive60 at USD 88,500. The range-topping iX M70 xDrive comes in at USD 111,500.
An automobile engineer by training, I’ve analyzed the global car market since 2005, with a keen focus on EVs since 2008. My journey in online automotive publishing spans 17 years, during which I have reviewed cutting-edge automotive technologies and interviewed leading global CEOs and vehicle developers.
