Small BMWs, properly electric
The iX1 and its coupe-roofed iX2 twin are the volume end of BMW's EV push, and the 2026 model year quietly improved both: optimised battery management stretching range to 318–320 miles WLTP on the efficient eDrive20 (201bhp, front-drive), plus 22kW AC charging — a genuine rarity that halves wallbox-less top-up times. The xDrive30 (301bhp AWD) tops both lines. Pricing starts at £43,555 (iX1) and £43,880 (iX2), running toward £58,000 loaded.
Efficiency is the sleeper stat: 3.5–4.0 mi/kWh in press hands makes the on-paper range honest.
The honest assessment
The core verdict: these are genuinely good to drive — body control, steering weight and refinement that justify the roundel against mainstream metal — with the iX1's cabin the practical, high-quality pick and the iX2 charging a style tax in rear headroom. The caveats: price walks past £50k meet a Volvo EX40 or Skoda Elroq offering more metal per pound, the M Sport ride runs firm on big wheels, and the five-star NCAP family rating dates to the 2022 X1 test.
For buyers stepping from a petrol X1 into electric without relearning anything, the pitch is frictionless.
The questions buyers actually ask
iX1 or iX2? The iX1 is the better car — roomier, cheaper, identical to drive. The iX2 exists for the kerbside glance; know which you're paying for.
eDrive20 or xDrive30? The 20 for range and value — 300+ real-ish miles front-driven. The 30 for pace and snow-belt security.
iX1 or EX40? The Volvo counters with design calm and value; the BMW wins the drive. Both age well; taste decides.
- iX1 from £43,555, iX2 from £43,880; to ~£58k loaded
- 2026 update: up to 320 miles, 22kW AC charging
- eDrive20's 3.5–4.0 mi/kWh efficiency makes range honest
- iX2 trades rear headroom for style; M Sport rides firm
- Rivals: Mercedes EQA, Audi Q4 e-tron, Volvo EX40
Key takeaways
- iX1 from £43,555, iX2 from £43,880; to ~£58k loaded
- 2026 update: up to 320 miles, 22kW AC charging
- eDrive20's 3.5–4.0 mi/kWh efficiency makes range honest
- iX2 trades rear headroom for style; M Sport rides firm
- Rivals: Mercedes EQA, Audi Q4 e-tron, Volvo EX40
Sources & further reading
- BMW UK 2026 model-year updates
- Carwow and Auto Express tests, 2026
Figures, prices and policy details were current at the last-updated date above. Automotive pricing, incentives and regulations change frequently — verify time-sensitive details with the linked primary sources. Read our editorial policy and fact-checking standards.
