Update: ‘Design’ updated.
Breaking with both industry norms and BMW’s usual product cycle, the iX1 is expected to forgo a mid-cycle refresh (‘LCI’ in BMW-speak) and transition directly to a full generational change late next year.
Spy shots indicate the German automaker is preparing an all-new model for a late 2027 debut. Here’s everything we know about the new BMW iX1 so far.
Design
Images of early prototypes testing in Europe suggest that the 2027 BMW iX1 will feature an unconventional design. Based on these sightings, our renderings depict how the second-generation model could appear without camouflage.
The next-gen iX1 will adopt the new Neue Klasse design theme that debuted on the new iX3. As shown in our rendering, it will have a visibly upright front end, along with a higher and flatter hood.
Spy media reveal that the headlamps would be integrated into ultra-wide horizontal panels, comprising a blacked-out section toward the grille and a darkened yet transparent section toward the fender. The fender-side section would house dual-eye headlamps, along with two fang-like daytime running light signatures.
The kidney grille, inspired by the Neue Klasse BMWs from the 1960s, would be slim and vertically oriented. The bumper would have clean surfaces for a smoother, more aerodynamic look.
We expect reduced surfacing to be more evident on the sides. Flush-integrated, automatically extending door handles would add to this low-profile appearance. The version that will be designed for China should feature semi-recessed, manually actuated door handles, giving BMW the option to use the same on the global-spec car.
At the rear, the registration plate area would be lower, at the bottom of the tailgate, and the horizontal combination lamps are expected to feature technical-looking graphics.
Interior
BMW Panoramic Vision
The interior of the next-gen iX1 would also embody the new design language that debuted in the new iX3. This means the cabin would be devoid of an instrument cluster and present driving information on the new BMW Panoramic Vision, a new projection system that displays information on a black printed surface across the full width of the windshield.
3D HUD & iDrive X
A 3D head-up display will likely be available as an option in the new iX1. Most functions will be operated by a new freestanding central touchscreen designed in a hexagonal shape, which we found intuitive during our time with the iX3, running BMW Operating System X.
Physical Controls
Spy shots (via BMW Blog) suggest that BMW will offer physical controls for basic functions such as hazard lights, front and rear defoggers, and audio volume in a panel that includes the electronic gear selector and electronic parking brake as well.
Specifications
Motors
According to a report that Auto Express published on October 20, 2025, the next-gen BMW iX1 will be based on a new, rear-biased platform. It should be available in single-motor RWD and dual-motor AWD variants, both featuring an electrically excited synchronous motor (EESM) at the rear, and the latter with an additional asynchronous motor at the front.
BMW’s latest motors offer a 40% reduction in energy losses, a 10% weight reduction, and a 20% manufacturing cost reduction compared to previous ones used in the iX1.
Battery
Cylindrical cells would be integrated into the battery pack without the module layer, unlike in the current model’s battery pack, which features prismatic cells.
The latest cells have 20% greater energy density, increase the charging speed by 30%, and improve the range by 30%. While these figures likely represent the maximum changes, the next-gen iX1 should still come with significant upgrades in terms of charging capabilities and range.
Charging
The upgraded 800-volt electrical architecture can increase the charging speed of the iX1 from the current 130 kW to somewhere around 300 kW. This could reduce the 10-80% DC charging time from 29 minutes to around 20 minutes.
Range
We estimate the WLTP range to climb from 514 kilometers (319 miles) to well over 600 kilometers (373 miles) in the long-range versions.
Release Date
Also See: BMW iX4 40 & 50 xDrive set to rival the Tesla Model Y from late 2026
There’s no official announcement, but there’s a compelling case for BMW to offer the next-gen iX1 in the U.S. sometime in the first half of 2028, following the launch late next year.
If priced from around USD 50,000, it would compete with the likes of the next-gen Volvo EX40, Mercedes GLB Electric, and the refreshed Audi Q4 e-tron.
Featured Image: TopElectricSUV.com’s rendering
International Automotive News Editor since 2014, covering global motor shows, industry events, and test-driving various vehicles, with a focus on hybrid and electric cars in recent years.
