BMW iX1 LWB

The 2025 BMW iX1 LWB in India is powered by a single electric motor, driving the front wheels. This setup is a departure from the dual-motor, AWD configuration of the standard iX1. The electric motor is paired with a 66.4 kWh lithium-ion battery pack.

The powertrain delivers 201 bhp (204 PS) of power and 250 Nm of torque. While this is less powerful than the dual-motor iX1, it is still sufficient for Indian roads, offering smooth and responsive acceleration. The iX1 LWB accelerates from 0-100 kmph in 8.6 seconds and has a top speed of 175 kmph. The claimed MIDC range on a single full charge is an impressive 531 km, with a realistic real-world range expected to be around 400-450 km. It supports fast charging at up to 130kW DC, allowing a 10-80% charge in approximately 32 minutes. AC charging (11kW) takes about 6 hours 45 minutes for a full charge. The focus here is on efficiency and range, making it a practical EV for daily use and intercity travel.

Ride and Handling

The 2025 BMW iX1 LWB is engineered to deliver a comfortable and composed ride, well-suited for Indian road conditions, while retaining BMW's characteristic agile handling. It features a well-tuned suspension setup, with a double-wishbone suspension at the front and a multi-link suspension at the rear.

The electric power steering is precise and offers good feedback, making the iX1 LWB responsive and easy to maneuver in city traffic and on highways. While the low-speed ride can be firm, it is generally well-calibrated to absorb potholes and uneven surfaces gracefully. The longer wheelbase contributes to improved ride comfort and stability, especially at higher speeds. The regenerative braking system is adaptive, intelligently adjusting the regeneration levels based on driving conditions, and a "B" mode allows for one-pedal driving. Overall, the iX1 LWB offers a balanced ride and handling package that prioritizes comfort and ease of use without completely sacrificing the dynamic feel expected from a BMW.

The interior of the 2025 BMW iX1 LWB is a modern and luxurious cabin, with a strong emphasis on rear passenger comfort due to the extended wheelbase. The cabin features premium materials, including leatherette upholstery (often in Mocha Brown), metallic accents, and an M Sport interior package that adds a touch of sportiness.

A key highlight is the BMW Curved Display, which seamlessly integrates a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster and a 10.7-inch central infotainment touchscreen. The increased wheelbase directly translates into significantly more legroom and kneeroom in the rear seats, making it very comfortable for chauffeured occupants. BMW has also fitted softer seat cushions and extended the seat base by 15mm for improved under-thigh support. A reclining function for the rear seatback (up to 28.5 degrees) and a large fixed panoramic glass roof further enhance the sense of spaciousness and comfort. Creature comforts include dual-zone automatic climate control, heated front seats (optional), ambient lighting, and wireless phone charging. Boot space is a practical 490 litres.

Infotainment

The infotainment system in the 2025 BMW iX1 LWB is powered by BMW's latest iDrive operating system, presented through the impressive BMW Curved Display. This setup provides a futuristic and highly customizable user experience. The system is intuitive to use, with sharp graphics and a user-friendly interface. It can be controlled via touch, the iDrive controller, steering-wheel-mounted controls, or voice commands through the BMW Virtual Assistant.

The 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster offers various customizable displays for driving information, energy flow, and navigation. The 10.7-inch central control display supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, ensuring seamless smartphone integration. A premium 12-speaker Harman Kardon sound system delivers a rich and immersive audio experience. Additional features include an adaptive navigation system, Bluetooth connectivity, multiple USB ports (including Type-C charging in rear seatbacks), and Wi-Fi hotspot capability.

The exterior design of the 2025 BMW iX1 LWB is largely similar to the standard iX1, maintaining BMW's contemporary SUV aesthetic with subtle EV-specific cues. The front fascia features a distinctive, closed-off kidney grille, flanked by sleek LED headlamps with integrated LED DRLs. The overall design is clean and modern, with sharp lines and sculpted surfaces.

The "LWB" designation is subtly integrated, with the increased length (116mm longer than the standard iX1) primarily visible in the extended wheelbase (108mm longer). This contributes to a more mature and elongated side profile without compromising the iX1's balanced proportions. It rides on 18-inch M design alloy wheels. The rear features angular LED taillights and a clean bumper design. Dimensions are approximately 4616 mm in length, 1845 mm in width, and 1627 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2800 mm. Ground clearance is 190 mm, suitable for Indian road conditions.

Safety is a paramount consideration in the 2025 BMW iX1 LWB, which is engineered with a robust chassis and a comprehensive suite of active and passive safety features. It has received commendable safety ratings from international organizations, including a 5-star ANCAP rating, underscoring its strong occupant protection.

The iX1 LWB is equipped with 8 airbags (including front, side, curtain, and knee airbags) as standard, providing extensive passive protection. Active safety features include Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Brake Assist (BA), Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), Traction Control (TC), Hill Assist, and Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS). It also boasts essential driver-assistance systems such as Park Distance Control (PDC) at the front and rear, and a rear parking camera with guidelines. Higher trims or optional packages may offer more advanced features like Active Driving Assistant (with lane departure warning and blind-spot monitoring) and Automatic Emergency Braking, enhancing overall safety and driver confidence.

The 2025 BMW iX1 LWB operates in the premium electric SUV segment in India, facing off against several established and upcoming electric vehicles.

Its primary competitors include the Hyundai Ioniq 5, BYD Sealion 7, and Volvo EX40. The Hyundai Ioniq 5 offers distinctive retro-futuristic styling and a strong feature set. The BYD Sealion 7 is a new entrant from a Chinese EV giant, offering competitive range and features. The Volvo EX40 (formerly XC40 Recharge) provides a strong emphasis on safety and Scandinavian design. The iX1 LWB differentiates itself with its increased rear-seat space, BMW's brand prestige, and aggressive introductory pricing due to local assembly.

Other indirect rivals could include the Audi Q3, Volkswagen Tiguan R-Line, and potentially the BMW X1 (its ICE counterpart). The iX1 LWB's unique blend of luxury, space, electric powertrain, and competitive pricing makes it a compelling choice for buyers looking for a premium electric SUV in India.

The 2025 BMW iX1 LWB is a highly strategic and compelling offering from BMW for the Indian market. Its aggressive introductory pricing, coupled with the significant increase in rear passenger space and a practical electric range, makes it a very attractive proposition. While it adopts a single-motor, front-wheel-drive setup (a departure from the standard iX1's AWD), the performance remains adequate for daily driving, and the focus on comfort and space is well-executed.

The iX1 LWB successfully blends BMW's luxurious cabin experience and technological prowess with the benefits of an electric powertrain. Despite some minor omissions in features compared to higher-end BMWs (like ventilated seats or a 360-degree camera), its overall value proposition is strong. For luxury car buyers in India prioritizing a spacious, comfortable, and efficient electric SUV with premium brand appeal, the 2025 BMW iX1 LWB is an outstanding and highly desirable choice.