BMW iX1 facelift spotted testing overseas, larger body

The upcoming BMW iX1 facelift has been spotted testing overseas, showcasing several striking design updates. The biggest highlight is the larger, enclosed grille, reflecting the brand’s increasing emphasis on its electric vehicle (EV) identity. The grille is in line with BMW’s signature design language and improves the SUV’s aerodynamic efficiency. The camouflage is limited to the front end of the test car, suggesting that the rest of the vehicle may not see many cosmetic updates. The mid-term facelift is part of the German automaker’s strategy to remain competitive in the rapidly evolving electric vehicle market, with design and performance being key factors. As the official debut of the new-generation iX1 draws closer, more details on the technology and performance upgrades are expected to be announced in due course.

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BMW iX1 facelift revealed: key details

As can be seen from the light camouflage, the facelifted model appears to be in the initial stages of testing. The final production version may have more significant changes to the body panels, especially in the soft plastic areas. The car’s closed grille is slightly wider, but the bumper is very similar to the current model. In addition, the unchanged LED daytime running lights (DRL) and headlight pattern may indicate that BMW is experimenting with updated driver assistance systems. It is worth noting that the tailgate badge is hidden at the rear of the car.

This could be a new, sportier model in the range, as it comes with an M Sport package and more aggressive front and rear bumpers. In addition to the mid-term facelift, the iX1 could also improve battery efficiency or upgrade to a more powerful electric motor. As far as launch is concerned, the facelifted iX1 is likely to hit global markets next year.

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BMW iX1: Battery Specifications and Features

The brand currently offers the xDrive 30 M Sport model of the iX1 in India. The electric car is priced at Rs 6.69 lakh (ex-showroom). At this price point, it competes with the Mercedes-Benz EQA, Kia EV6, Hyundai Ioniq 5, Volvo C40 Recharge and XC40 Recharge.

The iX1 is equipped with a 66.4kWh battery pack and dual motors. It reportedly takes only 5.6 seconds to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h, with a combined output of 308 horsepower and 494 Nm of torque. The electric SUV supports 11 kW AC charging and 130 kW DC fast charging, with a WLTP-certified range of 440 kilometers. BMW also offers an 11 kW AC wall charger that can be fully charged in 6.3 hours, while a 130 kW DC fast charger takes only 29 minutes.

The feature suite includes a 10.7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, a 10.25-inch digital driver’s display, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, dual-zone climate control, a panoramic sunroof, a 12-speaker Harman Kardon sound system, power-adjustable front seats with massage function, and wireless phone charging.

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