autoevolution
 

2022 BMW iX Is a Tech-Laden EV, Here Are Five of Its Most Interesting Features

Set to join BMW’s all-electric lineup next year, the all-new iX has been recently revealed in great detail. It packs plenty of power, it has an above-average range, and comes with a host of exciting features.
2022 BMW iX 14 photos
Photo: BMW AG.
2022 BMW iX2022 BMW iX2022 BMW iX2022 BMW iX2022 BMW iX2022 BMW iX2022 BMW iX2022 BMW iX2022 BMW iX2022 BMW iX2022 BMW iX2022 BMW iX2022 BMW iX
With their newest all-electric SUV, BMW designers seem to have incorporated some nice cues from the iNext prototype. While the iX is nowhere near as futuristic, it's a stylish vehicle (at least to these eyes) that distinguishes itself from the carmaker's ICE-powered models.

It will be available in two versions, called xDrive50 and M60, both coming with a dual-motor setup that can deliver plenty of power. The former is rated at 516 hp, while the M-badged model is expected to produce well over 600 hp (additional details haven't been released yet). BMW also tells us that we can expect around 300 miles (483 km) of range per full charge from either model, which is more than decent but not groundbreaking.

While the performance is about what we expected, the SUV includes some very interesting features, and we selected five of them that make the iX stand out.

It Has Self-Healing Kidney Grilles

2022 BMW iX
Photo: |BMW AG
Okay, so these aren’t actually grilles since the iX is an all-electric vehicle. The manufacturer calls the whole transparent assembly an intelligence panel because it hides cameras, sensors, and a host of other mechanisms.

I know what some of you will say: “Intelligent or not, they’re still ugly,” and I tend to agree. However, BMW has committed to this design, so we might as well get used to it.

The most awesome thing about the grilles (or panel) is that a polyurethane coating reduces the susceptibility to damage. If the surface is scratched, this coat can self-heal in 24 hours at room temperature or even more quickly if it’s exposed to direct sunlight or warm air.

The Hood Emblem Doubles as a Cover for the Washer Fluid Reservoir Cap

2022 BMW iX
Photo: |BMW AG
The SUV is all about convenience, so if you’re out of washer fluid, you don’t have to lift the hood for a refill. Gently press on the front BMW emblem, which will pop open and allow you to pour it in directly.

This feature may not be as innovative as the previous one, but it’s without a doubt a cool idea. We’ve seen emblems cover up trunk locks or cameras in the past, but never has a carmaker used them as washer fluid reservoir caps.

Additionally, the central part of the rear emblem hides a washer for the camera embedded underneath it. When the latter is dirty, the washer pops up and cleans the lens cover.

It Has an Exciting Wake-Up Sequence

Using UWB (Ultra Wide Band) radio technology to detect the key or smartphone, the vehicle initiates a choreographed lighting display called Great Entrance Moments when the driver is within 10 feet (3 meters). It also unlocks the vehicle, tuns on the iDrive system, creates a light carpet next to the door, adjusts the seats, and heats them if it’s cold outside.

It Comes With the Brand-New iDrive 8 Infotainment Interface

2022 BMW iX
Photo: |BMW AG
Inside, a large crystal-clear 14.9-inch curved touchscreen dominates the dashboard. It uses the new iDrive 8 system that seems to be a massive improvement over the previous iteration.

We say that because it’s easier to use, much more customizable, the graphics are sharper, and BMW promises a better voice control interaction.

Moreover, functions that were once controlled by physical buttons are now integrated into the interface, so there are noticeably fewer buttons or switches through the cabin.

It Boasts a Huge Electrochromic Sunroof

2022 BMW iX
Photo: |BMW AG
After you’re done marveling at the awesomeness of the curved display and the exquisite interior, you can look up (not while you’re driving, of course) and discover the huge sunroof that extends all the way to the back.

It’s the largest glass roof ever fitted to a BMW and features PDLC (Polymer Dispersed Liquid Crystal) technology to shade the occupants from direct sunlight. Thanks to this technology, its transparency can be altered from clear to opaque with the press of a button.

The newest member of the BMW i lineup will be available in the first part of 2022 with an MSRP of $83,200 (plus a $995 destination charge) in xDrive50 guise. The M60 model will unquestionably be more expensive, but the exact figure has not been revealed yet.
If you liked the article, please follow us:  Google News icon Google News Youtube Instagram X (Twitter)
About the author: Vlad Radu
Vlad Radu profile photo

Vlad's first car was custom coach built: an exotic he made out of wood, cardboard and a borrowed steering wheel at the age of five. Combining his previous experience in writing and car dealership years, his articles focus in depth on special cars of past and present times.
Full profile

 

Would you like AUTOEVOLUTION to send you notifications?

You will only receive our top stories