CarGurus expert rating: 4 out of 5
CarGurus user rating: N/A
Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 48.3%
Overall CarGurus rating:* 4.0 out of 5
Available Listings: Around 180
Average Price: Around £21,000

BMW iX1 (2026) Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
Very classy interior and infotainment system	Not as versatile as some rivals
Good to drive	An expensive option in the class
Efficiency is pretty good	Dimensions aren't as compact as they once were

Quick Summary

The BMW iX1 is the smallest and most affordable electric SUV in BMW's portfolio, sitting on the company's modular FAAR platform. Available as the 308bhp xDrive30 with four-wheel drive and up to 290 miles of range, or the more economical 201bhp eDrive20 with front-wheel drive and up to 320 miles, the iX1 is a mid-sized family SUV measuring 4.5 metres long. Despite its compact positioning, it competes directly with larger rivals like the Volkswagen Tiguan and even its bigger sibling, the BMW iX3, with prices from £43,000.

The iX1 excels in cabin quality and infotainment, featuring a sophisticated 10.7-inch touchscreen with Operating System 9, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and an effective built-in navigation system with charger search functionality. It's smooth and confident to drive with responsive acceleration, adaptive regenerative braking, and optional one-pedal driving. The 490-litre boot is practical with good storage, and rear passengers enjoy comfortable accommodation, though legroom may feel tight for taller occupants. Running costs are competitive for a premium electric SUV, with home charging significantly cheaper than public alternatives.

Best for: Buyers prioritising premium badge appeal, sophisticated cabin design, and reliable infotainment in an electric family SUV, plus those seeking competitive running costs through home charging.

Not ideal for: Those needing maximum interior versatility or the lowest prices in the electric SUV class, or drivers wanting a genuinely compact vehicle.


Comparison vs Key Rivals



The Verdict

You should buy the iX1 if: You prioritise premium badge appeal, sophisticated cabin design, and reliable infotainment in an electric family SUV, or seek competitive running costs through home charging.

Consider alternatives if: You need maximum interior versatility, the lowest prices in the electric SUV class, or a genuinely compact vehicle.

Competitive Position: The BMW iX1 is a comprehensively engineered premium electric SUV offering some of the best infotainment and cabin finish in its class. Whilst rivals like the Skoda Enyaq, Hyundai Ioniq 5 and Nissan Ariya offer roomier interiors and longer driving ranges at lower prices, the iX1's premium badge, sophisticated design and assured driving dynamics make it a compelling choice for those valuing luxury and refinement. If a premium badge and the lustre it brings matters to you, the BMW iX1 should be near the top of your electric family SUV shortlist.

Read our full BMW iX1 Review

*The Overall CarGurus rating: that informs these recommendations is based on CarGurus' proprietary market data from July 2026, CarGurus expert reviews, and CarGurus user reviews.