Spec comparison: BMW iX1 vs Volvo XC40 Recharge vs Mercedes-Benz EQB vs Kia EV6

German luxury carmaker BMW has introduced the all-new iX1 electric SUV in India, targeting the rapidly growing electric vehicle (EV) market in the country. Priced at Rs 66.90 lakh (ex-showroom), the iX1 xDrive30 is BMW's entry-level EV offering and is based on the next-generation X1 crossover. In this competitive segment, the iX1 will face off against rivals like the Mercedes-Benz EQB, Volvo XC40 Recharge, and Kia EV6.

BMW iX1 vs Mercedes-Benz EQB vs Volvo XC40 Recharge vs Kia EV6: Range, Power outputs, and Charging

The BMW iX1 is powered by a 66.4kWh battery pack and a dual-motor setup that delivers 313PS and 494Nm of torque. It offers a WLTP-rated range of 417-440km, making it suitable for both urban commuting and long drives. The iX1's charging options include a 130 kW DC charger that can take it from 10 to 80 per cent charge in 29 minutes, and an 11kW Type-2 charger that provides a full charge in 6.5 hours.

On the other hand, the Volvo XC40 Recharge boasts a larger 78kWh battery pack and a two-motor setup producing 408PS and 660Nm of torque. It offers a competitive range of 418 km on a single charge and supports a 150 kW DC fast charger, delivering a quick 10 to 80 per cent charge in just 28 minutes.

Mercedes-Benz offers the EQB 350 with a 66.5kWh usable energy battery pack and dual electric motors generating 292PS and 520Nm of torque. The EQB provides a WLTP-rated range of 423km, and its charging options include an 11kW AC charger that takes around 6 hours and 25 minutes for a full charge and a 100 kW DC charger that charges from 10 to 80 per cent in about 32 minutes.

Kia's EV6, a strong competitor in the EV market, features a 77.4kWh battery pack and offers two powertrain options. The RWD version delivers 229PS and 350Nm of torque, while the AWD variant generates 325PS and 605Nm of torque. The EV6 boasts an ARAI-certified range of 708km with the 77.4kWh battery pack and RWD configuration. Its rapid 350 kW DC charger can take it from 10 to 80 per cent charge in just 18 minutes.

BMW iX1 vs Mercedes-Benz EQB vs Volvo XC40 Recharge vs Kia EV6: Features

In terms of features, the iX1 gets a 10.25-inch driver display, a 10.7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Veganza vegan leather upholstery, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, adaptive headlights, dual-zone temperature control, a panoramic sunroof, connected car tech, adaptive suspension, powered front seats with memory and massage functions, cruise control, multicolour ambient lighting, wireless phone charging, BMW digital key plus, USB Type-C charging ports, and a Harman Kardon 12-speaker sound system, lane departure warning, front collision warning, among others.

The XC40 Recharge is equipped with an Android-based nine-inch touchscreen infotainment system, a panoramic sunroof, 360deg camera, Type-C ports, 12.3-inch driver display, ADAS, wireless phone charging, air purifier, telematics, connected car tech, powered front seats with driver-side memory, HSA, HDC, TPMS, a Harman Kardon sound system.

Kia has equipped the EV6 with a 12.3-inch dual-screen setup, augmented reality HUD, 10-way powered and ventilated front seats, a 14-speaker Meridian sound system, flush door handles, electric sunroof, remote folding seats, front powered seats, over 60 connected car features, 360deg, powered tailgate, eight airbags, ESP, HAC, VSM, BAS, MCBA, vehicle-to-load (V2L), vehicle-to-vehicle (V2V) charging, dual-zone temperature control, wireless charging pad, 64 colours ambient lighting, and numerous 10+ ADAS functions.

The EQB from Mercedes-Benz gets a dual-screen 10.25-inch driver display and touchscreen infotainment system, powered front seats with memory function, 64 colours ambient lighting, dual-zone temperature control, a wireless charging pad, connected car tech with Mercedes Me, four drive modes, a 10-speaker, 225-watt sound system, blind spot assist, lane keeping assist, seven airbags, cruise control, powered tailgate, a panoramic sunroof, and LED headlights, among others.

BMW iX1 vs Mercedes-Benz EQB vs Volvo XC40 Recharge vs Kia EV6:: Pricing

In terms of pricing, the BMW iX1 starts at Rs 66.90 lakh (ex-showroom), while the Volvo XC40 Recharge and Mercedes-Benz EQB 350 are priced at Rs 56.90 lakh (ex-showroom) and Rs 77.50 lakh (ex-showroom), respectively. The Kia EV6 has a price range starting from Rs 60.95 lakh (ex-showroom) to Rs 65.95 lakh (ex-showroom).

In conclusion, the BMW iX1 aims to establish a robust presence in the Indian electric vehicle market and compete effectively with its electric SUV rivals. However, being a CBU unit, it is positioned as the second most expensive electric SUV in its segment, with the EQB taking the top spot in terms of pricing. Additionally, the EQB stands out as the only seven-seater car among the contenders, offering versatility for larger families.

When it comes to range, the Kia EV6 takes the lead with an impressive 708 km (ARAI) range, thanks to its 800V ultra-fast charging architecture that supports 350 kW charging. The Volvo XC40 Recharge offers a good balance of range and performance, providing a competitive option at a lower price point. The Mercedes-Benz EQB offers a decent range and stands out with its seven-passenger seating capacity, catering to those with larger space requirements.

While the BMW iX1 delivers reasonable range, performance, and features, it comes at a slightly higher cost. It may appeal to those who prioritize the BMW brand and are willing to invest in its electric offering. Ultimately, the choice among these electric SUVs will depend on individual preferences, including factors like range, seating capacity, features, and budget, allowing customers to find the right fit for their specific needs in the evolving Indian electric vehicle market.

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