BMW has not yet released a fully electric X7, but the iX xDrive50 is its electric flagship SUV in the same size and price class

The BMW X7 remains a gasoline-only model as of 2024. BMW's answer to the demand for a large, luxury electric SUV is the iX xDrive50, which launched in 2022. It is a separate model line, not a direct replacement for the X7, though both target buyers who want a three-row luxury SUV with premium features and high performance.

The iX xDrive50 is built on BMW's dedicated electric platform (called the iX architecture), while the X7 still uses the brand's traditional combustion engine platform. If you are comparing the two, the choice comes down to whether you want a fully electric vehicle or prefer the range and refueling speed of a gasoline engine.

Key Takeaways

  • The iX xDrive50 is BMW's large electric SUV; the X7 is gasoline-only and remains in production alongside it.
  • The iX xDrive50 has a real-world range of roughly 300 to 350 miles per charge, depending on driving conditions and highway versus city use.
  • Charging at home on a Level 2 charger takes 10 to 12 hours for a full charge; DC fast charging can add 200 miles in about 35 minutes.
  • The iX xDrive50 starts around $85,000 to $90,000 before incentives, making it significantly more expensive than a comparable X7.
  • Federal tax credits up to $7,500 may reduce the purchase price if you meet income and vehicle assembly requirements.

iX xDrive50 Range and Real-World Performance

BMW rates the iX xDrive50 at 380 miles of EPA-estimated range on a full charge. Real-world range typically falls between 300 and 350 miles, depending on weather, driving speed, and terrain. Highway driving at 70 mph or higher will reduce range more quickly than city driving, a pattern common to all electric vehicles.

The vehicle uses a dual-motor setup with one motor on each axle, producing 516 horsepower and 564 pound-feet of torque. Acceleration is brisk—0 to 60 mph in about 4.6 seconds—but the weight of the battery pack (over 5,000 pounds) means efficiency drops noticeably in cold weather. Winter range losses of 20 to 30 percent are typical for this class of vehicle.

Charging Options and Time Requirements

Charging speed depends on the equipment you use. A standard 120-volt household outlet (Level 1) adds roughly 3 miles of range per hour and is impractical for daily use. A Level 2 charger installed at home, typically 240 volts, adds 25 to 30 miles per hour and will fully charge the iX xDrive50 in 10 to 12 hours overnight.

DC fast charging at public stations is much quicker. A 150 kW charger can add 200 miles in approximately 35 to 40 minutes, though charging speed slows as the battery approaches full capacity. BMW's partnership with Electrify America and other networks means you will find compatible chargers along major highways, but availability and wait times vary by region.

Home charging is the most convenient option if you have a garage or driveway and can install a Level 2 charger. Installation costs typically range from $500 to $2,000 depending on your electrical panel and distance from the charger location. Some utilities and state programs offer rebates that offset part of this cost.

Price and Federal Tax Credit may be able to access

The iX xDrive50 starts at approximately $85,000 to $90,000 before any incentives, depending on the model year and current pricing. This makes it roughly $15,000 to $25,000 more expensive than a comparable X7 with a gasoline engine.

The federal electric vehicle tax credit of up to $7,500 may reduce your tax liability if you meet the requirements. To may have access to, your modified adjusted gross income must fall below $300,000 (married filing jointly), $150,000 (single), or $200,000 (head of household). The vehicle must also be assembled in North America, which the iX xDrive50 is (at BMW's plant in South Carolina).

Some states offer additional rebates or tax credits. California, New York, and Colorado, among others, have their own incentive programs that can add $2,500 to $5,000 in savings. Check your state's energy office or environmental agency website for current programs.

How the iX xDrive50 Compares to the X7

Both vehicles seat up to seven passengers and offer three rows of seating, though the third row is tight in both. The X7 offers more cargo space behind the third row and has a higher towing capacity (5,500 pounds for the X7 versus 4,400 pounds for the iX). The X7 also has a longer driving range per tank (around 400 to 450 miles) and can refuel in five minutes at any gas station.

The iX xDrive50 offers lower operating costs (electricity is cheaper than gasoline), quieter cabin noise, and faster acceleration. It also qualifies for carpool/HOV lane access in some states, which can save commute time. Maintenance is simpler because there is no oil, transmission fluid, or spark plugs to service.

If you drive fewer than 200 miles per day and have access to home charging, the iX xDrive50 eliminates most refueling stops. If you frequently take long road trips or live in an area with sparse charging infrastructure, the X7's gasoline engine may be more practical.

Warranty and Long-Term Battery Health

BMW covers the iX xDrive50's battery pack for eight years or 100,000 miles, whichever comes first. This warranty covers defects and degradation below 70 percent of original capacity. In practice, most owners see battery degradation of 5 to 10 percent over the first five years of ownership, so the warranty threshold is rarely reached.

The vehicle itself carries a four-year/50,000-mile basic warranty and a four-year/50,000-mile powertrain warranty. Extended warranties are available at purchase and can extend coverage to eight years/100,000 miles for the powertrain.

Availability and Ordering

The iX xDrive50 is available at BMW dealerships across the United States. Lead times vary; as of late 2024, most dealers report delivery times of two to four months for a new order. Used iX models from 2022 and 2023 are beginning to appear on the used market, typically priced $10,000 to $15,000 below new.

BMW also offers the iX xDrive40, a less powerful version with a smaller battery, starting around $65,000. It has an EPA-estimated range of 324 miles and uses a single motor on the rear axle. For buyers who want an electric BMW SUV but do not need the top-tier performance, the xDrive40 is a more affordable entry point.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I tow a trailer with the iX xDrive50?

Yes, the iX xDrive50 has a towing capacity of 4,400 pounds, which is suitable for small trailers or jet skis. Towing reduces range by roughly 20 to 30 percent, so plan for shorter distances between charges if you are towing regularly.

What happens to the battery if I leave the car parked for months?

Modern EV batteries lose charge slowly when parked—roughly 2 to 3 percent per month. BMW recommends keeping the battery between 20 and 80 percent for long-term storage. The vehicle has a low-power mode that minimizes drain if you are storing it for an extended period.

Is the iX xDrive50 available with all-wheel drive?

Yes, the xDrive50 designation means it has dual motors and all-wheel drive as standard. BMW also offers the xDrive40 with all-wheel drive. There is no rear-wheel-drive option for the iX line.

How much does it cost to charge the iX xDrive50 compared to filling up an X7?

Charging costs depend on your local electricity rate, but typically range from $8 to $15 for a full charge (300+ miles). Gasoline for an X7 to travel the same distance costs roughly $35 to $50, making the iX significantly cheaper to operate over time.

Will the X7 ever get an electric version?

BMW has not announced plans for an electric X7. The company is positioning the iX as its electric flagship SUV line. Future X7 models will likely remain gasoline or hybrid-only, while the iX line expands with additional variants.