BMW X Range Explained
By Motor Match • 31/01/2024
BMW’s range of ‘X’ models has become a lot more varied in the last few years.
It was the original X5 which kicked off the brand’s presence in the high-riding vehicle segment, since that inception it has gone on to spawn a wide range of models.
The thing is, it can be a little confusing working out which model is which and how they all bring something different to the table. That’s what we’ll be looking at today, so let’s dive in and see.
BMW X1
The X1 marks the entry point to the X range of vehicles. However, it’s a far cry from being ‘entry-level’ with this car’s solid build quality and refined driving character being two key characteristics which separate it from the competition.
Remember, too, that as with many other ‘X’ models, the BMW X1 is available as a fully electric model - badged iX1 - which brings a range of up to 270 miles from a single charge.
BMW X2
Like the X1 but want a slightly more eye-catching design? The X2 could be right for you. Also available as an electric iX2, the X2 will be available from March 2024 and brings a slight price increase over its predecessor but brings big gains in space and practicality in the process.
As well as the electric iX2 you’ll also be able to get the X2 in range-topping M35i specification which can manage 0-60 mph in just 5.2 seconds.
BMW X3
The X3 was one of the original spin-offs from the larger X5, delivering the same kind of upmarket look and feel on a slightly smaller scale. These days, the gap between X3 and X5 is smaller than ever, with the X3 bringing a far larger look and feel than you might expect.
Again, you can get it with an electric version in the iX3, but even more ‘regular’ setups deliver a good combination of performance and efficiency,
BMW X4
Just as you have the more distinctive-looking X2 to the X1, so you also have the X4 against the X3. It’s a more coupe-inspired SUV with a raked roofline and a less upright stance than the X3, albeit with the same great engine choices and smartly finished interior.
In M Sport trim the X4 is particularly striking to look out, while the X3’s practicality remains largely uninterrupted in this change to X4.
BMW X5
Here it is, the car which started it all. The X5 represented BMW’s first foray into the high-riding SUV market and it has only gone from strength to strength since its introduction. These days, the X5 is a core member of the premium SUV segment and continues to be a big hitter among buyers.
At present, no fully-electric X5 is available but it remains available with a variety of engine choices including a plug-in hybrid setup which can deliver an impressive 52 miles of electric-only range.
BMW X6
Then, if you want something a little more out-there, there’s the X6. It was one of the first coupe-styled SUVs out there, with the first generation X6 in particular getting people talking. It has become a little less outlandish since then but still has a big presence on the road.
With powerful petrol and diesel engines available the X6 is a great long-distance cruiser but one which really delivers in terms of comfort and refinement.
BMW X7
The big X7 should be your first choice if space is what you’re after. Available with up to seven seats it’s a leviathan on the road while its uber-large front grilles make it extremely hard to miss. Essentially an SUV version of the 7 Series saloon, the X7 is packed with luxurious features and feels special both inside and out.
We’re big fans of the diesel-powered X7, too, as it has some of the feel of an old-school SUV. Plus, it’s wonderful on the motorway where it settles down to a whisper-quiet cruise.
BMW iX
The iX is BMW’s largest and most luxurious electric SUV. If you’re after a car that’ll get people talking then this could be it, as with its distinctive styling it’s a very hard model to miss. Fortunately, it’s got some useful tech to back up those looks.
In fact, it’ll manage up to 380 miles on a charge - one of the longest from any electric car on sale today - while the sportiest versions will manage 0-60 mph in just 4.4 seconds.
BMW XM
Finally, we have the XM. It’s a frankly enormous plug-in hybrid SUV and though it does measure ever-so-slightly shorter than the X7, the XM’s boxy dimensions and upright stance make it a car with absolutely loads of presence on the road.
It uses a 4.4-litre V8 engine at its core, which when combined with the electric battery and motor makes this one of the most powerful cars in BMW’s stable. Even so, you should still get just over 50 miles of electric-only driving.
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