2022 BMW iX joins PH premium EV segment with P6.2 M intro price 

BMW Philippines seems to have been overtaken by its rivals where electrified vehicles are concerned. That’s about to change as the German brand’s local distributor takes a big leap forward by introducing the 2022 iX luxury Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV), with an asking price of Php 6.2 million for the lone xDrive40 trim level. 

The news seems to be timed perfectly with the recent passage of the Electric Vehicle Industry Reform Act (EVIDA) into law, mandating a nationwide plan to actively promote the use of EVs, starting with fleets used by both the private sector and government. 

“This is the perfect time to introduce such a groundbreaking model to the Filipino market. The iX represents everything that BMW is and will be in premium automotive design, performance, and overall desirability,” gushed SMC Asia Car Distributors Corp. President Spencer Yu.

The iX is the first purpose-built EV from BMW following the i3 subcompact hatchback, as well as the fourth release under the BMW i sub-brand. Its aluminum spaceframe holds a new electric drivetrain architecture, which BMW says is compatible with the Cluster Architecture (CLAR) platform currently used on its combustion models.  

Exterior 

As the first electric BMW in the country, the iX stands 4,953mm long, 1,967mm wide, and 1,696mm high on a 2,997mm wheelbase. It features a relatively muted and streamlined design, with the main visual showcase being the blacked-out kidney grille on the fascia incorporating camera and radar sensors. 

The midsize luxury crossover features a blacked-out version of the trademark kidney grille

The LED headlamps resting below the hood’s leading edge are equipped with High Beam Assistant. Blue accents are found on the bumpers and body cladding, representing the iX‘s status as a zero-emissions vehicle. Similar to the grille, the window surrounds are also rendered in black to convey an air of sportiness, along with door handles lying flush on the panels.  

Carbon fiber-reinforced plastic (CFRP) material was used on the roof, sides, and rear to increases structural rigidity while reducing weight. Slim LED tail lamps rest on the automatic tailgate, almost spanning its entire width if not for the BMW roundel sitting squarely in the middle. A set of 21-inch alloy wheels with a 3D finish complete the iX’s stance.  

Interior 

The iX allows up to five occupants to bask in the spaciousness of its cabin, with newly-developed seats draped in Highlight Olive-tanned natural leather. Integral head restraints deliver a premium look, combined with the diamond pattern on the upholstery. 

A cabin wrapped in luxury and tech

Touch surfaces such as the door panels and dashboard are also wrapped in leather, while the rear cargo bay provides ample space for luggage and other sundries. The 4-zone automatic climate control system, actuated by touchscreen controls, features nanofiber filtration and includes heating functions for the seats and steering wheel.   

Tech & Safety 

Dominating the dashboard is the BMW Curved Display comprising a 12.3-inch information screen and a 14.9-inch control display, both encased in glass and angled towards the driver. It offers a variety of connectivity options such as Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Wireless charging is standard. 

The new generation iDrive display and Operating System 8 make their debut on the iX, incorporating voice commands with the upgraded BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant. As the iX uses electric propulsion, BMW included a simulated drive sound which corresponds to feedback in response to accelerator input and vehicle speed.   

The second-row bench features a folding center headrest for better visibility when reversing

BMW’s technology toolkit for the iX highlights a wide variety of driver-assist features, extensively using the onboard complement of five cameras, five radar sensors, and 12 ultrasonic sensors. Upgraded for left-hand drive markets, the front collision warning system can now detect oncoming traffic when the vehicle turns left.

Another standard feature is the Cruise Control with Braking Function. An exit warning function and Remote Theft Recorder are also included. The Parking Assistant features a Reverse Assisting Camera, and the iX also provides the potential for Level 3 autonomous driving as a future upgrade.

Powertrain   

The iX runs on the fifth generation of BMW’s eDrive technology, with a drive unit comprising two electric motors, power electronics, and transmission. The dual motors can generate a peak of 326 horsepower and 630 Nm of torque on demand, powered by high-voltage batteries mounted low on the vehicle’s chassis. Range is pegged at 372 kilometers on a full charge. 

A full charge on the iX can last up to 372 kilometers

An electric all-wheel-drive system automatically regulates output between the front and rear axles, switching between rear-wheel propulsion for efficiency and all four wheels for traction. The iX is buoyed over the road surface by a double-wishbone suspension in front and a five-link setup at the rear, complemented by an Servotronic electronic steering system with variable ratio.    

Pricing

The 2022 BMW iX retails for Php 6,290,000, carrying a five-year/200,000-kilometer warranty. BMW Philippines has already opened the order books for its SAV, so all you need is to get in touch with the nearest BMW dealership and inquire about your options. 

We update you with the latest releases in the local market at Philkotse.com.