BMW iX1 facelift spied testing for the first time

Just two years after the global debut of the BMW iX1 electric SUV, a camouflaged test mule has been spotted testing in Europe, suggesting that a facelift is already in the works. However, only the front end of the test mule is camouflaged, which means there could be minimal cosmetic changes.

1. BMW iX1 electric SUV facelift spied in Europe
2. Very minimal cosmetic updates expected

This is our first sighting of the mid-life update for the iX1, thanks to our friends at Motor.es. The subtle camouflage suggests that the facelift is in very early stages of testing, and there could be more significant updates to the body panels – at least the soft plastic parts – in the final production model.

What’s apparent from this test mule is that the blanked-off grille seems to have grown slightly larger, although the bumper looks very similar to the existing model. And the fact that the headlamps and the LED daytime running lamp signatures remain unchanged could also mean that BMW is testing an advanced driving assistance system.

Interestingly, at the rear, the badges on the tailgate were concealed. So this could also be a new sportier variant in the line-up, as it can be seen wearing the M Sport package with aggressive front and rear bumpers. With its mid-lifecycle update, the iX1 could also benefit with greater efficiency for the battery pack or more powerful electric motors.

The updated iX1, however, is not expected anytime soon, with a global debut likely sometime late next year. In India, BMW currently sells the iX1 in xDrive 30 M Sport guise, which is priced at Rs 66.90 lakh (ex-showroom). It rivals the Mercedes EQA and Volvo XC40 Recharge.