Autocar has named the best electric car for families, with the BMW iX taking the top spot ahead of the Volkswagen ID 7 and BMW iX3. The ranking highlights two models from the same manufacturer in the top three.
BMW iX Takes First Place
Reviewers praised the BMW iX for its excellent all-around ability, combining generous SUV-level cabin comfort and versatility with a genuinely relaxing and understated luxury ambience. The iX exterior design has been updated with a new BMW kidney grille featuring vertical and horizontal lines, which can be illuminated for an additional cost. The sporty M Sport trim now includes a sculpted front bumper and rear diffuser finished in gloss black, along with seven new exterior paint finishes.
A choice of three battery packs is available: a 94.8kWh unit or larger 108.9kWh and 109.1kWh packs. The smaller unit brings a 30 per cent increase in size over the outgoing car, pushing its claimed electric range up to 374 miles on a single charge, compared to 340 miles on the old car. The larger units provide a claimed 366 miles and 426 miles respectively between trips to the plug. There are four different flavours of iX to choose from, including an xDrive45 Sport and M Sport, plus sportier xDrive60 M Sport and M70 xDrive models. Standard equipment for all models includes adaptive LED headlights, heated front seats and steering wheel, a premium Harman Kardon sound system and a head-up display.
Volkswagen ID 7 in Second Place
Claiming second place behind the iX was the Volkswagen ID 7 electric saloon. Autocar's reviewers concluded: "The Volkswagen ID 7 is the German giant's first electric saloon and estate. Think Volkswagen Arteon, but built for the electric age. Further appeal comes in the form of its class-leading ride comfort and competitive driving range. Rear space is limousine-esque."
BMW iX3 Rounds Out Top Three
The BMW iX3 was named third, completing a strong showing for the Bavarian automaker. The ranking was compiled by Autocar, which assessed various family electric vehicles on criteria including comfort, range, and practicality.
