The BMW iX, iX3, and i4 were recently introduced in Malaysia, but with the recently-announced tax exemption for EVs starting from this year as part of Budget 2022, BMW Malaysia has made some adjustments for the prices. The company recently hosted a launch event for the new BMW i models to show the consumers that they are committed to sustainability and wanted to innovate for the future of mobility.
BMW iX
The BMW iX, it’s an all-new all-electric SAV (Sports Activity Vehicle) as BMW puts it. For now, the BMW iX is the flagship electric vehicle that BMW has to offer. There are two variants being launched here, which are the iX xDrive 40 and the iX xDrive 40 Sport. The BMW iX has a power output of up to 326HP, based on the specs of the iX xDrive 40. The iX also has a WLTP range of up to 630 kilometers.
The BMW iX was designed by BMW to be a living space on wheels, with a minimalist exterior and interior design paired with modern technology that is discreetly placed and featured around the vehicle without being ostentatious. The BMW iX could be optioned to have BMW’s Laserlights, which is an adaptive headlight unit. Both variants also come with High-Beam Assistant as standard. Frameless side windows are also a feature of the BMW iX, as it is one of the rare crossovers to have this feature.
The iX will have 21-inch aerodynamic rims with a 3D texture, called the 1010 Bicolour 3D on the xDrive 40 and a 22-inch 1020 Multicolour 3D for the xDrive 40 Sport. Both variants will have 17-inch calipers which are painted in blue.
The BMW iX is comparable in size to its petrol counterparts, the X5 and X6. The iX measures 4,593mm in length, 3,000mm in wheelbase, and 1,967mm in width. Despite its size, the iX still has 500 liters of cargo space.
The BMW iX will be offered a selection of colors, which includes Black Sapphire, Alpine White, Phytonic Blue, Sophisto Grey Brilliant Effect, and Blue Ridge Mountain. The iX xDrive40 Sport also has extra color options like Mineral White, BMW Individual Aventurine Red Metallic, and BMW Individual Storm Bay Metallic; however, these paint options will incur additional costs. As for interior colors, the BMW iX will be either be upholstered in Atelier Mocha or Atelier Black.
The BMW iX xDrive40 now retails from RM361,430, on-the-road without insurance, while the Sport package is now priced at RM407,430.
BMW iX3 M Sport
The BMW iX3 is an X3 that is converted to have a fully electric drivetrain. The iX3 was said to be fitted with BMW’s fifth-generation BMW eDrive technology with an improved high voltage battery that boasts exceptional gross energy capacity along with high efficiency. This said efficiency allows it to achieve a greater operating range that could withstand everyday driving. Advanced driving technology also allows the vehicle to be charged with 150kW of power at a DC fast-charging station.
The BMW iX3 has a restyled exterior. Airbreathers around the front wheel arches are revamped to give better airflow. There are also elements of BMW’s I Blue dotted around the vehicle to show that this vehicle is the electric version. Depending on the trim level, the iX3 comes with a 19-inch aero wheel on the Inspiring variant or a 20-inch M aero wheel on the Impressive variant. As for the headlights, adaptive LED headlights will be standard with an option for BMW Laserlight for higher trim models. All variants will come with a high-beam assistant as standard.
The BMW iX3 will be available in six different color options, which are M Carbon Black Metallic, Cashmere Silver, Sophisto Grey Brilliant Effect, Mineral White, Phytonic Blue, and Piemont Red. As for the interior, either Leather Vernesca Mocha with Black Décor Stitching or Leather Vernasca Black with Blue or Black Contrast Stitching.
BMW i4
The i4 is the brand’s first fully-electric 4-door coupe, designed to show that electric cars don’t have to be boring as they can deliver a sportier driving experience. Like the iX3, the i4 is based on its petrol engine counterpart, which is the 3 series platform. The i4 comes packed with high-level drive systems and chassis technology packed into a sleek and sporty body. The version that was unveiled at the event is the i4 eDrive40. It has an electric motor sitting in between the rear wheels, powering them with a maximum output of 340hp and a peak torque of 430Nm. BMW says that the motor at the back is lightweight and efficient, giving it a WLTP range of up to 590km. Besides that, the i4 can reach a top speed of 190km/h and does 0-100km/h in 5.7 seconds.
The exterior of the i4 has also undergone BMW’s i restyling. The kidney grille that was closed off for better aerodynamics also has BMW i blue elements around it to show that it’s an electric car. Behind the grille is where it houses its camera, ultrasonic, and radar sensors for driver assistance systems. The car also comes with full LED headlights with BMW Laserlights as an option.
The BMW i4 comes in three different colors, which are Black Sapphire Metallic, Mineral White Metallic, and M Brooklyn Grey Metallic.