BMW iX review - Reliability & safety

​BMW is highly competitive when it comes to fitting its cars with the latest safety gear, and the iX represents a new generation of electric models from the brand. However, BMW has some work to do to impress owners, with a mediocre 21st place result in our latest Driver Power survey. The iX fares far better for safety, receiving a five-star rating from Euro NCAP. 

BMW iX reliability

The iX benefits from BMW's latest electric motor and battery technology, which has been developed at eye-watering expense to rival the likes of Tesla for efficiency and power. The hardware will also have to prove robust and, in theory, it should require next to no maintenance during the life of the car. 

BMW hasn't performed too well in recent Driver Power surveys, coming 21st out of 32 manufacturers in 2023. This could be partly down to raised expectations for the brand but either way, BMW will be hoping models like the iX help pull up its scores. A reasonable 22% of owners reported a fault within the first year, and criticisms included poor ride comfort and fiddly infotainment - areas in which the iX already appears to perform well. 

Safety

When the BMW iX was crash tested by Euro NCAP, it scored the maximum five-star score with high scores across in all sections. In total, the model received a 91% rating for adult protection and 87% for child protection. Its advanced safety assist technology also stood out too, with an 81% rating. 

It's no exaggeration to say the iX can practically drive itself, with BMW's Driving Assistant Professional likely to be capable of Level 3 autonomous driving with a future update. It can already keep pace with surrounding traffic and help you stay in a lane, while Park Assist can automatically park the car in many circumstances. 

One of the more novel safety features is Acoustic Protection, which warns pedestrians and cyclists of the car's approach using sounds created in collaboration with composer Hans Zimmer.