An Electric Diva

The 2022 BMW iX xDrive50 SUV is an electric diva that commands attention and respect the moment you see her. (Yes, I’m giving the car a pronoun because it just feels right to do so.)

One of the core character traits of a diva is a certain boldness and confidence. This SUV has that. Boy, does she have that! Embodied with a striking stance, crazy-good performance, dramatic elegance and sublime comfort, this electric SUV easily wears a crown. And, with the ability to go 300 miles on one charge, that crown is one to inspire confidence.

I have had the rare privilege of test-driving several electric vehicles from Autobahn Fort Worth’s vast selection of luxury car dealerships, and while each of them conveys a different design language and philosophy, none of them have had the overall effect on me like the iX has. If you’re reading this and have never driven an electric-powered car, you MUST give it a go. Then you’ll realize what all the fuss is about. The ultra-quiet rides at speed, the minimalistic and tech-forward interiors, and of course, their ridiculous acceleration are truly a rEVolution in the way we will all eventually move around.

That said, the BMW iX was extra-special to me, as it seemed to be a textbook example of the greater thing being the sum of its parts. While sitting in its supportive but comforting driver’s seat, I applauded the uncluttered and well-designed cabin that was (literally) capped off by an electrochromic, panoramic glass roof. What’s that? It’s a glass roof that can go from transparent to frosted opaque at the touch of a button. I’ve only seen this feature in ultra-high-end architectural magazine showcases my husband likes to peruse.

On the iX’s dashboard, you’re greeted with a wide, curved, floating glass panel that houses all instrumentation and the touchscreen controls for all media and climate control. The entire screen is gorgeous and takes center stage the moment you sit down. The rear passengers do not at all feel left out, either, as the back row of the iX is definitely a special place to be, with its fantastic seats, stand-alone climate controls, and multiple AC vents and USB charging ports. Cargo space was generous as well, due to the flatter, lower floor which does not house a driveshaft hump.

At this point, you may be wondering “Cool, but how does it drive?” Well, for starters, she goes from 0-60 mph in 4 seconds flat. How do I know this? BMW told me. But of course, a test-drive is a test-drive, so… While I wholeheartedly trusted what they told me, I had to feel a little bit of it for myself. The result? It was a pin-you-to-the-seat acceleration experience! Driving around Fort Worth, sporting a semi-hexagonal steering wheel, she was much more maneuverable than her size would suggest, being confidently capable in the corners and yet smooth and silent over all kinds of road surfaces. This SUV was born from automotive genius. I expected nothing less from one of my favorite car makers.

Concerning its exterior design, I will say that the iX will probably divide some people who are used to seeing smaller versions of BMW’s signature “kidney bean” grilles, as the face of the iX can appear to some as too large. However, it certainly gives the SUV an unmistakable presence. The overall shape though, is fairly unassuming and carries quite a bit of restraint. Personally, I really was drawn to the headlights and the door handles for the way they were executed.

Both in driving satisfaction and comfort, the iX is a showstopper. Take her for a launch yourself with my amazing and knowledgeable friends at Autobahn Fort Worth BMW. You will not be disappointed.

Thank you, Autobahn Fort Worth, for another amazing driving experience. I look forward to meeting the next one!