Refreshed 2026 BMW iX Gains a Lot of Power, Range
The refreshed and upgraded 2026 BMX iX, which we were given a sneak peek of last fall, was officially introduced today. In Canada, the electric crossover will continue to be available in three trim levels—under different names, mind you—when it rolls out of the German plant in Dingolfing and arrives in dealerships this spring.
The updated and cleaner-looking exterior is characterized by the BMW kidney grille with a redesigned frame and a new structure of vertical and diagonal lines in its interior. Illumination of the new grille is optional on the iX xDrive45 and iX xDrive60, standard on the M70 xDrive.
- Also: We Took a Sneak Peek at the Updated BMW iX
- Also: BMW Vision Neue Klasse X Previews Future BMW Electric SUVs
The headlights have also been redesigned with vertical elements for daytime running lights and turn signals, as well as diagonal lines mirroring the grille.
The rear end is sleeker and the redesigned lower bumper features an integrated diffuser element as standard on the iX M70 xDrive or in conjunction with the optional M Sport Package on other models. Overall, the new iX boasts a higher proportion of body-coloured surfaces.
Let’s not forget the new-look, aerodynamically optimized wheels ranging from 20 to 22 inches in diameter, or the five new paint finishes such as Arctic Race Blue Metallic and Dune Grey Metallic.
Bless Those Seats
The interior of the 2026 BMW iX can be equipped for the first time with new M Multifunction Seats that not only look great but also offer enhanced lateral support and a wide range of adjustments including backrest width adjustment.
Available on the iX xDrive45 and xDrive60, and standard on the M70 xDrive, a Heat Comfort Package brings heated surfaces for the instrument panel and glove compartment, the door panels, centre armrest and the rear seats—definitely something many Canadian drivers will appreciate. The Sky Lounge panoramic glass sunroof, meanwhile, extends over both rows of seats and features electrochromic shading that can be activated at the touch of a button.
More Power
Each of the three BMW iX models for 2026 gets a new name reflecting the extra power on tap. Only the base iX manages to post faster acceleration times, however:
- iX xDrive45 – 402 hp (+80), 0-100 km/h in 5.1 seconds (-1.0)
- iX xDrive60 – 536 hp (+20), 0-100 km/h in 4.6 seconds
- iX M70 xDrive – 650 hp (+40) with Launch Control, 0-100 km/h in 3.8 seconds
A trailer hitch will be available as an option starting in the summer. For all models, the maximum permitted towing capacity is 1,587 kg (3,500 lbs).
In the revised iX, the suspension, damping and chassis control systems have been recalibrated to cope with the increased power and weight balance resulting from optimized battery technology. Weight- and friction-optimized wheel bearings and tires with reduced rolling resistance also contribute to increased efficiency.
Longer Range
According to the company, the biggest single contribution to the increased efficiency of the new iX comes from the first-ever use of silicon carbide semiconductor components in a BMW electric vehicle. The innovations also include a new battery management system. As a result, maximum range is significantly increased, especially in base trim. Below are the official NRC ratings:
- iX xDrive45 – up to 502 km, 100.1kWh battery
- iX xDrive60 – up to 586 km, 113.4kWh battery
- iX M70 xDrive – up to 488 km, 112.8kWh battery
Interestingly, a MAX RANGE function can increase the range remaining before the next charging stop by up to 25 percent by limiting the drive power and maximum speed and reducing certain comfort features. Also, an advanced new heat pump is fitted as standard, which is more good news considering how cold it can get in many parts of Canada.
How Much?
As mentioned up top, deliveries of the 2026 BMW iX will begin this spring. Canadian pricing has already been announced, with the entry-level iX xDrive45 now costing $88,900 (MSRP) instead of $82,000.
The other two models are saved from inflation, however. In fact, the iX xDrive60 is cheaper than it used to be, down from $98,000 to $94,900, while the M70 xDrive stays put at $129,000.