BMW is refining its all-electric iX SUV for 2026. Already a standout in its class, the updated version sharpens its identity while staying at the top of the premium electric SUV market.
2026 BMW iX xDrive60 In Short:
The base price of the xDrive60 is $98,133 in Canada, $88 500 in the US
The estimated range of the BMW iX xDrive60 is 586 kilometers
It supports up to 195 kW charging on a Level 3 fast charger
The iX xDrive60 delivers 536 horsepower and 564 lb-ft of torque
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Range and efficiency
Multiple trim options
On-road dynamics
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Seat comfort
Cargo configuration
Carbon-fibre structure difficult to repair
BMW’s electric journey didn’t start yesterday. Many still remember the quirky i3 launched in 2012, a compact, partially carbon-fibre vehicle that was long on style but short on range. A decade later, the iX picked up the torch with a bold, polarizing design. Now in its fourth model year, the 2026 iX gets a light refresh that helps it stay competitive against offerings from Cadillac and Audi. To get a better sense of the changes, I took the updated xDrive60, formerly the 50 for a spin.
Oh, Domagoj…
Not everyone’s a fan of ex-chef designer Domagoj Dukec’s design school. The head of BMW styling at the time made waves with that oversized, coffin-shaped grille and sharply sculpted lines. With the 2026 update, I half expected that infamous front end to be toned down. While it’s still very much there, the revised bumpers soften the vehicle’s overall look.
2026 BMW ix xDrive60 (Picture by Luc-Olivier Chamberland)Other updates include tweaked light clusters, but the iX remains instantly recognizable. Maybe I’m just starting to see the design’s subtleties, but it’s growing on me. I’m usually not a fan of white vehicles, yet the Mineral White finish works nicely here, especially with the sculpted light play across the body. The M Sport Pro Package ($3,900CA) adds darker accents and sportier bumpers, making the iX feel more grounded and less cartoonish. Blue-painted brake calipers also enhance its athletic edge.
BMW understands that buyers in this price bracket want customization. So, the iX is available in 13 exterior colours and 15 wheel designs, ranging from 20 to 23 inches. For those wanting something even more exclusive, the BMW Individual program offers further personalization.
Progressive Luxury Inside
Like the exterior, the interior hasn’t undergone a revolution—and that’s not a bad thing. Compared to its rivals from Mercedes-Benz and Audi, BMW’s minimalist approach feels more curated. The highlight is a single curved display integrating a 12.3-inch gauge cluster and a 14.9-inch infotainment system. Floating on a visible frame, it gives the cabin a unique visual signature I really like.
2026 BMW ix xDrive60 (Picture by Luc-Olivier Chamberland)Spend a few minutes exploring the iX’s tech features and you’ll uncover a vast sea of apps. Most drivers will ignore many of them, but somewhere out there, a few niche users will be thrilled. Despite the complexity, the layout remains intuitive once you’ve familiarized yourself.
Thanks to its EV architecture, the iX has a wide-open front cabin. That said, I’m puzzled as to why BMW didn’t add a centre console between the front seats to better utilize the space.
Our tester came with the Premium Essential Package ($6,400CA), offering highly adjustable “multi-function” seats. But no matter how much I tinkered with them, I couldn’t find a snug, supportive setting. They’re more La-Z-Boy than performance seat and yes, massage functions are available.
2026 BMW ix xDrive60 (Picture by Luc-Olivier Chamberland)Rear-seat space is generous, though I was hoping for more improvements in 2026. The bench is completely flat with no thigh support, surprising for a BMW. Also, outboard passengers get nudged inward by the thick side padding near the door.
On the plus side, the Sky Lounge fixed panoramic roof with electrochromic shading creates a bright, upscale atmosphere. Audiophiles will appreciate the stellar 30-speaker Bowers & Wilkins sound system.
As for cargo space, the trunk is more narrow than deep, offering about 500 liters with all seats up and 1,750 liters with the rear seats folded. BMW is making commendable efforts in sustainability, using recycled, upcycled, and recyclable materials. That kind of attention to detail matters to me, anyway.
From 50 to 60, 516 to 536 hp
BMW tweaked its naming structure for 2026 to “simplify” things… or not. The xDrive50 becomes the xDrive60, and total output rises slightly from 516 to 536 horsepower. Torque remains unchanged at a stout 564 lb-ft. Truthfully, the 20 hp bump is barely noticeable.
The iX 60 now sits in the middle of the lineup and delivers enough performance to satisfy traditional BMW fans. Acceleration is brisk, especially in Sport mode. BMW has done a solid job preserving its signature driving feel, even in this hefty electric SUV.
The steering could offer more feedback, but it’s smooth and responsive. The suspension does a great job masking the iX’s 2,581 kg curb weight. It can feel heavy if pushed hard, but during normal driving, the comfort level is exceptional.
One-pedal driving is also available—something EV enthusiasts appreciate. And here again, BMW’s expertise shows in its seamless integration.
Long-Distance Capable
The iX xDrive60 and M70 models share a 113.4 kWh battery (112.8 kWh usable), slightly larger than before. BMW claims up to 586 km of range for the xDrive60. During my 650 km test, I averaged 20.3 kWh/100 km translating to a realistic range of about 555 km. Slightly under spec, but most of my trip was spent on the highway.
2026 BMW ix xDrive60 (Picture by Luc-Olivier Chamberland)BMW’s drive modes significantly impact range. To maximize distance, “Efficiency” mode is your best bet, though it does dull the fun a bit.
Charging-wise, the iX uses a 400V architecture similar to the Cadillac Lyriq and Polestar 3 Performance, but a step behind the 800V setup in Audi’s new SQ6 e-tron. The onboard Level 2 charger accepts up to 11 kW at home, while DC fast-charging peaks at 195 kW.
New Heat Pump for 2026
A major update for 2026 is the intelligent new heat pump, designed to boost efficiency in temperatures between -20°C and +30°C. It can recover heat from the electric motors to warm both the cabin and the high-voltage battery simultaneously. A supplemental electric heater kicks in when needed.
Pre-conditioning is also enhanced. The battery can now be automatically heated before a fast-charging stop, either manually or through the “My BMW” app and navigation system.
What to Watch For
The iX has been subject to 13 recalls in Canada so far. While that sounds high, many affect only a small number of units. Software issues involving motor calibration have been noted, but overall, the iX has proven to be more reliable than many of its direct rivals.
One caveat: the carbon-fibre construction complicates repairs. And like all BMWs, the iX can become costly quickly if you get carried away with the options list. Features like ventilated seats really should be standard at this price point.
Also, keep in mind the iX like many EVs depreciates quickly. It’s best approached as a long-term investment.
2026 BMW iX Pricing
The base xDrive40 starts at $93,133 ($75,175US) Our xDrive60 tester is priced at $98,133 ($88,500US) before options. With three packages, the total came to $112,238 still well under the performance-oriented M70, which starts near $140,000 ($111,500US).
For its segment, the base price is consistent with competitors offering similar power and range.
Final Thoughts
The 2026 BMW iX xDrive60 is one of the most well-rounded EVs in its class. In this version, it strikes a strong balance between performance and range. While it’s not cheap and the options game can be tricky, it offers something few others do: genuine peace of mind when it comes to reliability.
 |  |  | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Model | BMW iX xDrive60 | Cadillac Lyriq 600E4 | Polestar 3 Performance |
| Base price | 98 133 $ | 75 433 $ | 102 300 $ |
| Power | 394 kW (536 ch.) | 384 kW (515 ch.) | 380 kW (517 ch.) |
| Torque | 564 lb-pi | 450 lb-pi | 671 lb-pi |
| Battery | 113,4 kWh | 102 kWh | 111 kWh |
| Official EV Range | 586 km | 513 km | 449 km |
| Level 2 Recharge Max | 11 kW | 11,5 kW (19,2 kW) | 11 kW |
| Level 3 Recharge Max | 195 kW | 190 kW | 250 kW |
| Combined consumption | 24,3 kWh/100km | 23,6 kWh/100km | 27,2 kWh/100km |
| Cargo space | 500/1750L. | 792/1722L. | 484/1411L. |
| Towing capacity | 1588 kg (3 500lb) | 1588 kg (3 500lb) | 1588 kg (3 500lb) |
