BMW is currently involved in multiple initiatives, ranging from updates to next-gen models, especially in Munich. Significantly, the automaker appears to be changing its strategy for its smallest crossover, the iX1. Recent spy images indicate that the iX1 could skip the Life Cycle Impulse and go straight to the next generation.
This is not the first instance of the “NB5” prototype being detected, but it is the first look at its interior. The second-generation iX1 will showcase a markedly different cabin compared to the existing model. Although the arrangement is completely new, it maintains a recognizable ambiance, taking numerous interior components from the larger iX3.
The revamped dashboard is highlighted by a tablet-style central touchscreen. It remains uncertain whether this screen is smaller than the iX3's notable 17.9 inches. As expected, the digital instrument cluster has been eliminated from the dashboard, with a potential 3D head-up display from the larger crossover possibly hidden under a cover.
The iX1 Will Incorporate Panoramic Vision Technology
The black strip at the bottom of the windshield suggests that the upcoming iX1 will include Panoramic Vision. This feature projects information from one pillar to another, featuring three fixed tiles in the driver’s line of sight that replace the instrument cluster. The following six tiles can be personalized via the touchscreen, allowing drivers to choose the information they want to display.
Also borrowed from the new iX3 are the controls for the remaining conventional features. The gear selector looks the same, with all standard controls placed on a typical center console. Some may find it disappointing that the center console no longer showcases a “floating” design, as BMW opts for a more traditional layout.
As is the case with all prototypes, the quality of materials should not be judged at this point. The armrest might seem to consist of inexpensive plastic, but this will not hold true in the finished production version. BMW has also concealed the door cards and passenger-side dashboard, indicating additional redesigns in those sections.
Sharp-eyed observers will spot an interior camera located at the base of the rearview mirror, implying that the forthcoming iX1 will likely incorporate the iX3’s City Assistant. This system can identify traffic lights and autonomously stop at red signals, proceeding only when the light turns green and the camera detects the driver's attention. The camera can also record photos or videos.
The New BMW iX1 Won’t Launch Until Late 2027
These early spy images offer a sneak peek into the new iX1’s interior, but the “NB5” won’t be ready for some time. Production is slated to begin in November 2027, presumably at the same Regensburg facility in Germany where the current model is produced. BMW has confirmed that a Neue Klasse model will be made at this location, potentially encompassing the next iX1.
For those interested in the traditionally powered X1, the “U11” is not anticipated to switch generations. It is expected to go through the usual Life Cycle Impulse, with production commencing in July 2027. This would synchronize the design of the ICE crossover with its electric counterpart, despite probable variations beneath the Neue Klasse architecture.
The new iX1 is projected to utilize BMW Group’s Gen6 electric motors and batteries. While the current iteration supports a maximum charging power of 130 kW, its successor should present distinctly enhanced performance, especially as the iX3 can achieve up to 400 kW. The new round battery cells with improved energy density will offer greater range.
At present, the iX1 reaches 473 kilometers (294 miles) on a single charge in the WLTP cycle for the single-motor eDrive20, while the dual-motor xDrive30 is rated at 438 kilometers (272 miles). The upcoming variant will transition from a front-wheel-drive setup to a rear-wheel-drive arrangement.
The completely revamped iX1 and the
BMW is currently involved in multiple initiatives, ranging from updates to next-gen models, especially in Munich. Significantly, the automaker appears to be changing its strategy for its smallest crossover, the iX1. Recent spy images indicate that the iX1 could skip the Life Cycle Impulse and go straight to the next generation.
This is not the first instance of the “NB5” prototype being detected, but it is the first look at its interior. The second-generation iX1 will showcase a markedly different cabin compared to the existing model. Although the arrangement is completely new, it maintains a recognizable ambiance, taking numerous interior components from the larger iX3.
The revamped dashboard is highlighted by a tablet-style central touchscreen. It remains uncertain whether this screen is smaller than the iX3’s notable 17.9 inches. As expected, the digital instrument cluster has been eliminated from the dashboard, with a potential 3D head-up display from the larger crossover possibly hidden under a cover.
The iX1 Will Incorporate Panoramic Vision Technology
The black strip at the bottom of the windshield suggests that the upcoming iX1 will include Panoramic Vision. This feature projects information from one pillar to another, featuring three fixed tiles in the driver’s line of sight that replace the instrument cluster. The following six tiles can be personalized via the touchscreen, allowing drivers to choose the information they want to display.
Also borrowed from the new iX3 are the controls for the remaining conventional features. The gear selector looks the same, with all standard controls placed on a typical center console. Some may find it disappointing that the center console no longer showcases a “floating” design, as BMW opts for a more traditional layout.
As is the case with all prototypes, the quality of materials should not be judged at this point. The armrest might seem to consist of inexpensive plastic, but this will not hold true in the finished production version. BMW has also concealed the door cards and passenger-side dashboard, indicating additional redesigns in those sections.
Sharp-eyed observers will spot an interior camera located at the base of the rearview mirror, implying that the forthcoming iX1 will likely incorporate the iX3’s City Assistant. This system can identify traffic lights and autonomously stop at red signals, proceeding only when the light turns green and the camera detects the driver’s attention. The camera can also record photos or videos.
The New BMW iX1 Won’t Launch Until Late 2027
These early spy images offer a sneak peek into the new iX1’s interior, but the “NB5” won’t be ready for some time. Production is slated to begin in November 2027, presumably at the same Regensburg facility in Germany where the current model is produced. BMW has confirmed that a Neue Klasse model will be made at this location, potentially encompassing the next iX1.
For those interested in the traditionally powered X1, the “U11” is not anticipated to switch generations. It is expected to go through the usual Life Cycle Impulse, with production commencing in July 2027. This would synchronize the design of the ICE crossover with its electric counterpart, despite probable variations beneath the Neue Klasse architecture.
The new iX1 is projected to utilize BMW Group’s Gen6 electric motors and batteries. While the current iteration supports a maximum charging power of 130 kW, its successor should present distinctly enhanced performance, especially as the iX3 can achieve up to 400 kW. The new round battery cells with improved energy density will offer greater range.
At present, the iX1 reaches 473 kilometers (294 miles) on a single charge in the WLTP cycle for the single-motor eDrive20, while the dual-motor xDrive30 is rated at 438 kilometers (272 miles). The upcoming variant will transition from a front-wheel-drive setup to a rear-wheel-drive arrangement.
The completely revamped iX1 and the
