The new iX1 has a larger towing capacity than its bigger brother. Does the iX1 get top points for a great EV tow car? What is the maximum towing capacity of the new BMW EV? Need an ix1 towbar?

The new iX1 has a larger towing capacity than its bigger brother.  Does the iX1 get top points for a great EV tow car?  What is the maximum towing capacity of the new BMW EV?  Need an ix1 towbar?

The BMW new iX1 is the German brand’s all-electric version of the fast-selling X1 SUV, basically built on the same platform. But it comes with the latest battery technology, inspired by the larger iX flagship, while still being a more affordable, compact family vehicle.

What you notice immediately are the blue tweaks alongside the kidney grille and angular headlights to distinguish the EV from the traditional X1.

The iX1 is the latest BMW to receive the brand’s new Operating System 8 and Curved Display, which features a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster and 10.7-inch touchscreen infotainment system in one display.

Practicality-wise, the iX1 also holds its own, with an impressive 490-litre boot – only 10 litres less than the flagship iX.  There are pretty handy levers in the boot if you need to fold down the rear seats, and the seatbacks divide in a 40/20/40 split (rather than the 60/40 you get in most rivals), which is a big plus.  The iX1 also has underfloor storage for its charging cables, and a powered tailgate, but no front trunk.
If you need to carry more or take your bikes along, why not install an iX1 Invisible towbar?  BMW has rated the iX1 at a max of up to 1,200kgs.  Believe it or not, the new iX1 has a larger towing capacity than the iX3, thanks partly to AWD,  and the iX1 is more powerful (308 HP) than the iX3 (282 HP), not forgetting the iX1 has more pulling power (torque) as well. On towing capacity, power and traction the smaller iX1 is just a better electric tow car.  Technology does move quickly.

The overall driving experience is extremely refined and quiet, just like its larger sibling.  There is no noticeable disruption from the outside world in terms of noise. It’s comfortable while cruising, even though it does weigh over two tonnes.  Around town, the iX1 offers excellent visibility and the steering is light for easy manoeuvring, while importantly it's not too large to fit into a tight car park.

The iX1 comes with just one battery option – a 65kWh powering two electric motors, with one mounted on each axle for all-wheel drive. That means a combined 313hp is at your disposal.  Claimed acceleration to 100km/h of 5.7 seconds.

Meanwhile, the battery allows a driving range of between 413km and 438km. The iX1 supports both single- and three-phase AC charging at a rate of up to 11kW, though you can optionally increase this to 22kW. It supports DC charging at up to 130kW. The iX1 will accept a maximum charging speed of 130kW, allowing a 10-80% charge in as little as 29min if you use a fast enough charger.

As with other electric BMWs, the iX1 features BMW IconicSounds Electric, synthetic engine noise created by famous composer Hans Zimmer.

A reversing camera and front and rear parking sensors are standard on all models, while a 360-degree camera system can be added as part of the Technology Plus pack. LED headlights are standard across the range for excellent visibility at night. M Sport trim adds entirely adaptive ones, or they can be added as part of the Technology or Technology Plus pack.

The iX1 is a practical choice, with an exceptional quality look and feel coupled with impressive performance.  A solid luxury SUV EV if your wallet allows it.

We now have an Invisible iX1 towbar available to make sure your new daily drive that is that more practical.  Order today.