The new BMW iX is a all-electric SUV. The BMW iX is based on a new platform specially developed by the Bavarian company for electric vehicles.

BMW’s electric SUV has been known as the iNext, but the production model actually bears the iX designation. Although development is still ongoing, the electric SUV has been introduced and almost all of its secrets have been revealed. There are many advantages, and BMW is especially proud of automated driving and digital technologies. The computer can process 20 times more data than previous models.

“The BMW iX shows how we can give new technologies a very modern and emotional design. The car is technologically complex, but it feels very clear and uncomplicated. The BMW iX offers a mobile living space in which people will feel at ease, where the car’s intelligence is only there when you need it.” said Adrian van Hooydonk, senior design VP at BMW.

In terms of external dimensions, the iX is very similar to BMW’s conventional-powered models. It is as long as X5, as high as X6. The wheels are similar in size to the X7, it will offer up to 22-inch aerodynamically optimised rims and 275/40 profile rubber.

The BMW iX is the first production vehicle with a hexagonal steering wheel that the manufacturer claims facilitates access and allows the driver a better view of the cluster. Inside, there is also a console with buttons for electric seats located on the door panels. It should also be said that the iX has the largest glass surface ever fitted to a single BMW model.

The SUV is powered by BMW’s fifth-generation all-electric powertrain. The two-motor drivetrain amounts to 500 horsepower, getting it to 62mph in under five seconds.

Thanks to its massive 100-kWh battery pack, BMW iX has a range about 300 miles WLTP. For longer trips than that, the battery can ingest charge at 200kW, meaning 40-odd minutes for an 80 per cent recharge. A quick 10-minute charge should add 75 miles to the range.

Production should start in the second half of 2021 at the Dingolfing plant, and sales at the end of the same year.

The BMW 128ti is going back to its roots by creating car that isn’t as contrived as some of its other performance models. The ‘Turismo Internazionale’ designation was last used on the 1997 323ti. Now BMW 128ti is returning to its driving roots.

Unlike the previous one, the new 128ti has front-wheel drive, and some features are borrowed from the M135i xDrive flagship. These include an automatic transmission, stiff stabilizers, M Sport brakes and a detonated version of the same 2.0-liter petrol engine.

Being a front-wheel drive model, the powerful hatchback is BMW’s answer to the upcoming Volkswagen GTI TCR. It got an M Sport suspension that lowered it by 10mm to improve handling, and there’s also a Torsen differential with limited traction for better traction.

The model also comes with visual changes, from a more aggressive body kit, through a black kidney grille. Inside, you’ll find red trim, including on the backrests of the standard Sensatec/cloth sport seats. Red “ti” lettering is stitched into the centre armrest while red contrast stitching abounds. The standard equipment includes M pedals with stainless-steel caps, M door-sill strips up front and M seat belts. The sport seats are available as an option in perforated Dakota leather (in black with blue accents or red with grey accents). M sport seats with integral head restraints and extendable seat surfaces are furthermore optionally offered.

Enthusiasts probably won’t like the “fake” engine noise either. BMW’s first hatchback with front-wheel drive emits a fake engine sound to “enrich the sporty driver experience”. The headlights are dimmed, and this tone is accompanied by the side mirror housings.

The BMW has a four-cylinder engine with 262 hp and 400 Nm of torque. The BMW 128i accelerate from 0 to 60 in 6.1 seconds and reaches a maximum of 155 mph. The engine is paired exclusively with an eight-speed Steptronic Sport transmission, therefore, without a third pedal.