Recently, spy photos of BMW's future entry-level SUV, the highly anticipated all-new iX1, have been exposed.
Honestly, when I first saw this camouflaged car, I almost thought it was a Frankenstein's monster — it was wrapped up so tightly, as if they were afraid of anyone seeing it.
But to be fair, this design is very "Neue Klasse" yet also very risky...
The most obvious thing is the pair of "big nostrils" at the front — more precisely, the vertical double-kidney grille.
BMW calls this design language "Neue Klasse." Whether it looks good is a matter of opinion, but the visual impact is definitely there.
The headlights on both sides have also become slender horizontal strips, presumably connected to the grille, making the entire front face look like it was cut from the same mold as the previously exposed iX3.
Personally, I'm a bit torn — having gotten used to the current horizontal big mouth, suddenly turning it vertical feels odd. I wonder if the production car will be adjusted again.
The side profile has kept up with the trend, using flush door handles. This thing is now almost standard on domestic electric cars — it reduces drag a bit, which is somewhat beneficial for range.
The classic Hofmeister kink is said to change as well, but how exactly it changes is hard to tell under the camouflage.
The rear has also changed quite a bit — the taillights have followed the big brothers' style and become slender strips. The license plate frame has been moved down considerably, making the rear look cleaner.
Overall, BMW is determined to use this new design language. The upside is high recognizability; the downside... well, everyone may need some time to get used to it.
New platform, new battery — will range finally stop being a weak point?
Now that the exterior is covered, let's talk about something more substantial. The biggest upgrade of this generation of iX1 is actually underneath the skin.
It will use BMW's "Neue Klasse" architecture developed specifically for electric vehicles. The benefits of this new platform are higher space utilization and better energy consumption control.
More importantly, it will feature sixth-generation eDrive electric drive technology. This system uses all-new large cylindrical battery cells and an 800V high-voltage platform, so charging speed and range will both improve.
Official hints suggest the WLTP range could be around 600 kilometers.
600 kilometers — to be honest, in 2027 that number isn't impressive, but for a compact SUV it's adequate enough. After all, the current generation iX1's range is indeed a weak point.
Hopefully this generation will make up for that. A few honest words for those waiting and for the manufacturer.
According to current information, the pure electric iX1 is expected to start production around November 2027, while the combustion-engine X1 will be produced earlier, in July of the same year.
So friends who want to buy this car will have to wait another two years.
My advice is, don't rush into it. By 2027, there will only be more choices on the market, and competitors from domestic new forces and other luxury brands will all have been updated. By then, looking around and comparing more is never a bad idea.
To BMW the manufacturer, I'd also like to add a word. The new design is bold and worth encouraging.
But please don't cut corners on the interior again — the screen size doesn't have to be large, but the quality feel and smart experience must keep up.
Also, range — 600 kilometers is just the passing line. If it could be improved a bit more at production, or if the price is competitive, that would really be lethal.
Alright, that's all for today. What does everyone think of the BMW iX1's new look?
