The 2026 BMW iX M70 arrives on the market as a promise of evolution in the luxury electric SUV segment. Based on the already impressive iX M60, the new model aims to elevate performance, comfort, and efficiency. But are the changes made enough to justify the hype and high price? This article dives into the details of the iX M70, exploring its improvements and assessing whether it truly represents a significant leap over its predecessor.
Enhanced Performance: Absurd Power in an Electric SUV
The heart of the iX M70 remains the dual motor system from the M60, but with a crucial upgrade: a recalibrated software that elevates the power to an impressive 650 horsepower and torque to 811 lb-ft. These numbers alone put the iX M70 in a superior class, but what truly impresses is how this power translates into practical performance. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph is achieved in just 3.45 seconds, a feat that places it alongside renowned sports cars like the M3 Competition xDrive. This comparison, as the reviewer pointed out, sounds “completely absurd for something this size,” highlighting BMW’s ability to inject M adrenaline into an electric SUV.
In addition to the raw power, the accelerator response has been refined to be even more immediate, providing a sense of direct connection between the pedal and the delivery of force. The Sport Plus mode, now with fixed regenerative braking, offers a more incisive driving experience focused on performance. For enthusiasts seeking maximum control, BMW has heeded requests and, for the first time, allows complete deactivation of the DSC (Dynamic Stability Control), paving the way for freer and customizable driving in controlled environments.
Handling and Suspension: Refined Comfort and Dynamic Precision
Improvements to the handling and suspension of the iX M70 aim to balance comfort for daily use with the sporty dynamics expected of an M model. Small but significant changes in the suspension hardware, including the introduction of a new hydraulic rear axle bearing, result in a smoother experience with reduced vibrations. This seemingly subtle detail contributes to a more refined and less intrusive ride, especially on long trips.
The software adjustments in the suspension amplify the distinction between the Comfort and Sport driving modes. The Comfort mode has been softened, making it even more suitable for everyday use in urban centers and on rough roads. On the other hand, the Sport mode delivers a firmer and more precise experience, ideal for winding roads or for those seeking a more engaging drive. According to the reviewer, the new calibration allows the iX M70 to corner more flatly, with enhanced body control that makes it more composed on twisty roads. This improvement in driving dynamics elevates the driving experience, making the iX M70 not only fast in a straight line but also agile and responsive in curves.
Efficiency and Range: More Miles with Innovative Technology
Despite a marginal increase in battery capacity, now reaching 112.8 kWh in the U.S. and 108.9 kWh in Europe, the iX M70 surprises with a significantly increased range. Estimates point to 302 miles (EPA) and 600 km (WLTP) with 21-inch wheels, a notable gain over the previous model. This advancement in efficiency results from a combination of innovative technologies and smart optimizations.
Silicon carbide inverters play a crucial role in this efficiency gain, accounting for about one-third of the overall increase. These inverters, more efficient in energy conversion, minimize losses and maximize battery utilization. Optimized low-friction wheel bearings, A-rated tires, and aerodynamic improvements complement the efficiency package, contributing to lower energy consumption and, consequently, greater range. Charging speeds remain the same, with a maximum of 195 kW DC, ensuring quick recharges at compatible charging stations.
M Sport Seats: Comfort and Support Elevated to a New Level
One of the most praised improvements of the iX M70 is the introduction of M Sport seats. These new seats represent a significant upgrade over the previous model’s seats, offering much better lateral support and a longer seat base. For drivers and passengers, this translates to greater comfort in curves and long trips, minimizing fatigue and providing a more enjoyable experience.
The reviewer, who is 6’2″ tall, highlighted the significant improvement in comfort and support provided by the new seats. In their words, the M Sport seats really “hold you in place when cornering and make long trips much more comfortable.” This seemingly simple change directly impacts the driving experience and on-board well-being, especially for those who spend long periods behind the wheel.
Road Comfort: Quiet and Smooth for Long Journeys
The iX M70 maintains the excellence of its predecessor on long-distance cruises. The even smoother Comfort mode and the incredibly quiet cabin (recording only 57 dB at 43 mph) ensure a relaxing environment free of annoying noises. The Highway Assistant, a hands-free driving system, remains unchanged, offering valuable assistance on highways and expressways, reducing stress and driver fatigue.
The small improvements implemented in the iX M70, while they may seem modest individually, add up to deliver a superior overall experience, especially for those who use the vehicle daily and for long distances. As the reviewer succinctly put it, “for those who spend a lot of time behind the wheel every day, the iX will deliver the experience closest to a Series 7 of any BMW SUV.” This comparison with BMW’s luxurious flagship sedan reinforces the iX M70’s positioning as an SUV that does not compromise on comfort and sophistication.
Design: Subtlety and Modernity in Details
The visual changes in the iX M70 are subtle but effective in modernizing the design and distinguishing it from the previous model. The iconic BMW kidney grille has been updated with horizontal slats, giving it a more elegant and contemporary look. The slimmer headlights and vertical reflectors at the rear contribute to a more refined aesthetic aligned with the brand’s latest design language.
New wheel options, including sizes of 22 and 23 inches, and expanded exterior colors enhance customization possibilities, allowing customers to configure the iX M70 according to their aesthetic preferences. These changes, although discreet, come together to create a more modern and sophisticated look without compromising the visual identity of the iX.
Price and Value: Justifying the Investment in Performance and Refinement
The BMW iX M70 comes to market at a price of $112,675, nearly identical to that of the previous iX M60. This price equivalence, considering the improvements made, makes the iX M70 an even more attractive proposition. The reviewer believes that the enhanced performance, more precise handling, greater efficiency, and significantly better seats justify the investment, making it a superior car in all respects.
For those seeking more affordable options, BMW continues to offer the iX xDrive45 and iX xDrive60 models, which also benefit from some of the improvements implemented in the M70, though to a lesser extent. The strategy of keeping the M70’s price similar to that of the M60, even with the updates, suggests BMW’s effort to provide even greater value to its customers, solidifying the iX M70 as one of the best options in the luxury high-performance electric SUV market.
A Refined and Highly Desirable Evolution
The 2026 BMW iX M70 represents a refined and enhanced update of the iX M60, addressing some of the main criticisms of the previous model, particularly regarding seating and driving comfort. While the changes may not be drastic enough to convince M60 owners to upgrade, the M70 firmly establishes itself as one of the best options available in the competitive luxury high-performance electric SUV market. For those seeking a vehicle that combines power, comfort, efficiency, and cutting-edge technology, the iX M70 emerges as an almost unbeatable choice, elevating the driving experience of an electric SUV to a new level of excellence.
