At launch, the iX1 is only available in xDrive30 guise, which means having twin electric motors for AWD, a 22kW AC charger and (non-driver-configurable) adaptive dampers.

Buyers also get to enjoy autonomous emergency braking (AEB), lane-support systems, adaptive cruise control, adaptive LED headlights, automatic parking assist, keyless entry/start, a digital key with ultra-wide-band tech, dual-zone climate control, ‘Sensatec’ artificial leather, a reverse camera, DAB+ digital radio, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto connectivity, wireless phone charging, a 10.7-inch multimedia touchscreen, a 10.25-inch digital instrumentation cluster, ‘Hey, BMW!’ voice control, a head-up display, sat-nav with augmented reality view, a powered tailgate, roof rails and 19-inch alloy wheels.

Being a small to medium-sized SUV, you’d expect the X1-based iX1 to be fairly tight interior-space wise, but actually, with a transverse-engine and front-wheel drive architecture basis, it is surprisingly spacious.

Entry and egress is easy due to large doors, the seat cushions are set quite highly, while deep windows and a low dashboard cowl contribute to a light and airy feel.

The rear seat is as spacious as the front seat area, with room to stretch if required.

The BMW iX1 can accelerate from 0-100km/h in brisk 5.6 seconds, on the way to a top speed of 180km/h, BMW says.

The BMW iX1 is a five-seater small-to-medium-sized SUV.

Based on the third-generation X1, the U11-series iX1 is the full battery electric version, with two front bucket seats offering electric adjustment for rake as well as reach.

The seats themselves are classed as ‘sports seats’, meaning they have extra bolstering, presumably to brace their occupants from G-forces when the vehicle is cornering hard.

The rear seats are well-shaped as well, and offer a 40/20/40-split folding backrest arrangement to greatly increase luggage capacity into the cabin, as well as a reclining mechanism. The centre portion drops to double up as a ski-port and contains a pair of cupholders.

However, due to the battery being placed beneath the cushion, the iX1 is not available with the slide function that is optional on the internal combustion engine-powered versions.

The iX1 xDrive30 features BMW’s fifth-generation EV drive, known as eDrive 5.0 M170SF.

It has two electrically excited synchronous electric motors fitted – one on each axle – for all-wheel drive. Drive is via a single-speed reduction gear transmission. The battery pack fitted offers 67kWh.

All figures are on the ADR 81/02 test cycle.

BMW says the xDrive30 consumes an average of 18.3kWh/100km – somewhat less than the 21.3kWh/100km that the iX1’s own trip computer displayed.

The 67kWh lithium-ion battery pack offers a useable 65kWh, for a ADR 81/02-rated range of 400km.