The Highest-Ranked SUV on US News Is a Shocking and Luxurious SUV
Luxury SUVs are more popular than ever. So it should come as no surprise that these leathered-out land yachts would start to be built better too. What’s really impressive isn’t just that a luxury SUV is the highest-ranked SUV on US News, but that it is also an electric SUV. That’s right; the 2023 BMW iX is at the top of the heap across all SUV categories for US News.
The 2023 BMW iX is the highest-ranked SUV on US News
I also tested the 2023 BMW iX late last year, and I must say, US News is on to something. It was a bit shocking at first (pun aside) that US News rated the BMW iX higher than any other SUV, but I’m not sure it’s wrong.
US News says, “the 2023 BMW iX offers just about everything you could want from a luxury electric SUV. It’s fast, efficient, comfortable to drive, packed with advanced features, and meticulously well-built. However, it’s also quite expensive.” They aren’t wrong about a word of this statement.
The interior is luxurious, even opulent. The acceleration is phenomenal. The range supports plenty of worry-free mileage. And, yeah, it’s pretty damn expensive. Let’s take a closer look.
How fast is the 2023 BMW iX?
The 516-hp dual electric motor setup is a blast. It rockets the large luxury SUV from 0-60 mph in only 4.6 seconds. However, there is an optional M60 version making an alarming 610 hp and 811 lb-ft of torque. While the 0-60 time is quick, it isn’t mind-blowing. However, the speedometer doesn’t stop at 60 mph. This silent beast will rocket itself to a highway-crushing 155 before you can spit. Without gear changes and other conventional mechanics, the acceleration is instant and brutal. If your foot is down, there isn’t a moment where you aren’t going significant;y faster than you were the moment before.
How much range does the BMW iX have?
With all that power, it is easy to ruin your range, but if you behave, BMW says you should expect 324 miles on a full charge. However, the M60 trim with the added power is only good for 288 miles.
Plugging in at a 240-volt outlet or a Level 2 public charging station can fully charge the iX in 11 to 16 hours. A DC Fast-Charging station can fill the iX’s battery from 10% to 80% in around 40 minutes.
BMW iX handling
This luxury SUV is large and surprisingly heavy. Thankfully, BMW thought to mount the 1,100-lb lithium-ion battery in the floor of the SUV, keeping the cent of gravity low. Because of this thoughtfulness, the iX is surprisingly nimble in the corners.
How much is the 2023 BMW iX?
The base model iX xDrive50 starts at $84,100. This ain’t cheap, but it’s still a lot of luxury electric SUV for the money. If you step up to the M60 trim, prices start at $108,900. Again, it’s a lot of money, but you get a lot of car in return.
