BMW iX reportedly starts at £69,905

BMW's first standalone electric SUV, the iX, will arrive at UK dealerships in November, with prices starting at £69,905.

A rival to the Audi e-Tron and Mercedes EQC, the iX has a similar footprint to the existing X5.

It represents a fresh interpretation ofBMWdesign, featuring the same oversized front grille as the recently introduced M3 and 4 Series models.The upcoming i4 will have the same look.

The interior also features next-generation technology, presented through two large wraparound digital displays and a smallernumber of buttons than otherBMW models.iX is the first BMWto use iDrive version 8 software, which includes a voice-activated digital assistant.

Two powertrain options will be offered at launch.The entry-level iX xDrive40 will offer 326PS of power and a maximum range of 257 miles from its 70kWh battery.

The more powerful xDrive50 version has 523PS and 380 miles of range, thanks to a 100kWh battery.

Both feature a dual-motor setup that enables high levels of traction by sending power to all four wheels when necessary.To maximize efficiency, the iX can also operate purely as a rear-wheel drive car.

In the more powerful xDrive50, acceleration from 0-62mph takes just 4.6 seconds, while the xDrive40 completes the sprint in 6.1 seconds.

Sport and M Sport derivatives will be offered with two powertrain options.

The xDrive50 version can charge up to 195kW, while the xDrive40 has a maximum charging capacity of 150kW.That means ten minutes of plug-in time provides enough power to add more than 50 miles of range.In both models, the battery's charge can be increased from 10% to 80% of its full capacity in 40 minutes.