Before diving into my experience with the BMW IX50, I want to highlight an important observation. Today, electric vehicles with blue license plates have become a common sight on our roads, and charging infrastructure is now relatively well-developed. However, just a few years ago, no one expected the transition from internal combustion engines to electric vehicles to happen this quickly. BMW played a pivotal role in this shift.
Of course, Tesla's influence in promoting electric vehicles worldwide is significant. However, BMW was at the forefront of the transition to electric vehicles, having launched the i3 model when EVs were still unfamiliar to many. They also made considerable efforts to develop charging facilities in South Korea, solidifying their position as a leading brand in electrification technology.
Recently, I had a great experience with the BMW i4, another electrified model. It surprised me to see that even while launching new internal combustion engine models, BMW was already designing with the electric vehicle market in mind. This forward-thinking approach is truly impressive.
BMW's long history and brand value show that a company that makes cars can also excel at producing electric vehicles. I felt this once again while test-driving the IX electric vehicle, especially the IX50.
First off, the design is incredibly appealing. BMW's current push for classic heritage is evident in the large vertical kidney grille, which has received mixed reviews. However, I believe it suits this electric vehicle perfectly, almost as if it was designed specifically for the IX.
The titanium bronze color option for the grille, part of the Individual Exterior Line, reflects light beautifully, appearing as champagne gold or metallic dark silver depending on the angle. Notably, the grille features Shy Tech technology, which allows it to recover from minor scratches automatically. Additionally, it includes heating elements to quickly melt away snow in winter.
I previously posted about how the flat bumper design of the Tesla Model Y is vulnerable to stone chips, prompting me to apply partial PPF. BMW had already considered such details when developing the IX.
To compare sizes, I parked the IX50 next to the domestic large SUV Genesis GV80. Even though the IX50 falls into the mid-size category, it surprisingly appears larger.
What impressed me most about the IX was the newly designed interior layout. BMW's interiors had remained nearly unchanged for over a decade, especially around the F-body era. Now, the interior feels completely refreshed.
Thanks to the electric vehicle platform, the IX offers spacious legroom without a center tunnel. The interior design embraces a futuristic approach by minimizing physical buttons.
The spaciousness is immediately noticeable. The premium natural leather seats, featuring integrated headrests, provide an exceptional level of comfort. I can't pinpoint the exact technology used, but the softness envelops the body, surpassing previous BMW luxury line seats.
The curved display, which conveys information without any issues, integrates the instrument cluster, infotainment, and navigation. The digital instrument panel measures 12.3 inches, while the navigation session features a 14.9-inch touchscreen.
The console features a compact crystal electronic gear shifter, haptic touch buttons made from real wood, and the latest iDrive controller. The crystal material minimizes fingerprints, which is a nice touch.
Under the console, you'll find cup holders, a wireless smartphone charging pad, and a USB-C connector.
The Bowers & Wilkins (B&W) Diamond Sound System, which supports 4D sound, is a work of art. The immersive audio experience, reminiscent of a 4D theater, keeps long-distance driving engaging with its thumping bass.
The seat adjustment lever, located next to the door, also features crystal glass, which shines beautifully when exposed to sunlight.
However, the integrated headrest may pose some discomfort when adjusting neck support. While some may find it comfortable, I felt a bit constricted and needed time to adapt since it cannot be reclined.
You can adjust the seat comfort settings through the display monitor, including lumbar support and bucket seat adjustments. The massage seat function is a game changer for long-distance driving.
After a round of golf, driving for over an hour on a congested highway while using the semi-autonomous driving feature and setting the massage seat function significantly improves your condition.
The comfort of the seats is exceptional, making the IX50 one of the most comfortable electric vehicles I have experienced.
The second-row seating is spacious as well. Despite having ample legroom in the front seats, the rear offers plenty of space, showcasing the advantages of the IX's dedicated electric vehicle platform compared to conventional internal combustion vehicles.
The second row also features independent air conditioning and heated seats, along with multiple USB-C charging ports for tablets and smartphones, ensuring comfort for passengers.
The panoramic glass roof, while not operable, provides a sense of openness and privacy control through electronic settings. Additionally, it offers heat insulation.
Would you like to see a video? Since it's a vertical video, make sure to enlarge it.
The ride quality of the IX50 with air suspension is extraordinary, and the driving range is impressive.
During the recent weekend, I drove the BMW IX50 for nearly 500 kilometers round trip between my parents' home in Cheongju and a golf course. Surprisingly, the trip computer showed that I did not deplete the battery or driving range as much as expected based on the navigation distance.
To clarify, the official driving range of the IX50 when fully charged is stated as 477 kilometers according to domestic certification standards. However, I found that the actual driving range exceeds this figure significantly.
As shown in the picture, the dashboard indicates that 55% of the battery remains, with a driving range of 305 kilometers. This suggests that when fully charged, the IX50 can achieve nearly 600 kilometers, showcasing its excellent energy efficiency.
The IX50 utilizes heat pump technology to enhance battery efficiency through climate control. BMW has extensive expertise in regenerative braking systems, having implemented them even in conventional internal combustion vehicles. This expertise allows for instances where the driving range actually increases while driving.
The IX50 employs a carbon frame using aluminum space frame technology, which was previously found in supercars, ensuring both rigidity and lightweight construction. This design allows for increased battery capacity while maintaining a reasonable curb weight.
I felt the benefits of the regenerative braking system during my long-distance test drive, which significantly extended the driving range.
I never considered ride comfort to be a significant factor until I drove the Tesla Model Y, but now I mention it in every new car review. In any case, the BMW IX50 stands out among the latest electric vehicles I've experienced for its ride quality.
The rear-wheel steering feature (Integral Active Steering) is incredibly useful for tight U-turns and parking in narrow spaces, while also enhancing steering stability at high speeds.
The test vehicle was provided by BMW Korea.