@ BMW Group Press

@ Ford Motor Company / Ford Media Center

BMW iX1 vs Ford Explorer EV – Performance, range & efficiency compared

Q: What is the maximum horsepower of the BMW iX1?

Up to 313 HP of power – depending on the configuration.

Q: What are the BMW iX1’s WLTP consumption values in kWh/100 km?

According to the manufacturer, the BMW iX1 requires 15.80 kWh.

Q: What is the BMW iX1’s maximum WLTP range?

The WLTP range is up to 463 km.

Q: How many kWh does the BMW iX1’s battery hold?

The battery offers a capacity of 64.80 kWh.

Q: What is the top speed of the BMW iX1?

The BMW iX1 reaches up to 180 km/h.

Q: What are the BMW iX1’s length, width and height?

Length 4500 mm, width 1845 mm, height 1616 mm – those are the dimensions of the BMW iX1.

Q: What drive types are available for the Ford Explorer EV?

The Ford Explorer EV is available as Rear-Wheel Drive or All-Wheel Drive.

Q: How powerful is the Ford Explorer EV's engine?

The Ford Explorer EV reaches a peak output of 340 HP, depending on the model.

Q: What is the Ford Explorer EV’s energy consumption?

According to the manufacturer, the Ford Explorer EV requires 14.50 kWh.

Both models have their strengths – but which one suits you more?
Compare performance, efficiency, price and space directly: BMW iX1 or Ford Explorer EV?

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iX1 @ BMW Group Press

First Impressions: Urban Elegance vs. Bold Presence

The BMW iX1 arrives with that familiar compact-BMW polish — taut surfaces, deliberate lines and an air of urban sophistication that will appeal to buyers who value style and brand prestige. The Ford Explorer EV, by contrast, stakes a claim with a more muscular, family-SUV stance that reads as practical and unapologetically roomy. Together they make a neat study in positioning: one leans premium and composed, the other confident and purpose-built. Either way, both turn heads for very different reasons.

Explorer EV @ Ford Motor Company / Ford Media Center

Downtown Driving: Nimble City Craft vs. Composed Confidence

In tight traffic and shopping-lot maneuvers the BMW feels more fleet-footed, rewarding drivers who enjoy brisk steering and crisp turn-in responses. The Ford trades a touch of agility for a composed, planted feel that soaks up urban bumps and makes traffic flow feel less taxing. Both bring helpful driver aids that mask the hassles of city life, but they cater to slightly different driving temperaments. If you spend most days in suburbia, think about whether you prefer agility or calm assurance behind the wheel.

iX1 @ BMW Group Press

Highway Behavior: Smooth Cruising or Steady Long-Distance Companion

On longer runs the BMW keeps its premium demeanour with a focused chassis feel and a cabin that isolates road input with discipline. The Ford delivers a steadier, less fussy long-distance experience that prioritizes occupant comfort over sporty feedback, making it easy to relax behind the wheel. Neither is loud or tiring on open roads, but their intentions diverge — one hints at driver engagement, the other at lounge-like serenity. Choose the character that matches how you unwind on longer trips.

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Explorer EV @ Ford Motor Company / Ford Media Center

Living with It Every Day: Cabin Comfort and Practicality

Inside, the BMW cultivates a tighter, more tailored atmosphere with quality finishes and ergonomics that feel familiar to premium buyers, while the Ford emphasises usable space and a layout built around family life. Rear-seat passengers will notice differences in perceived roominess and access, and the way storage cubbies and small details are executed speaks to each brand’s priorities. Both cabins are friendly for daily routines, but they narrate different stories — one of refinement, the other of everyday utility. Your choice will hinge on whether you prize cosseting materials or flexible space.

iX1 @ BMW Group Press

Weekend Ready: Cargo, Versatility and Practical Tricks

When it comes to hauling gear for weekend plans the two take distinct approaches: the BMW offers a cleverly packaged cargo area that feels more refined, and the Ford answers with a more straightforward, adaptable load space that suits family weekends and bigger bits of kit. Practical touches like seat-folding ease, storage nets and roof options influence how chores and adventures play out over time. Both are competent companions, so think about the kind of weekends you actually plan and how often you need the extra flexibility. That practical perspective often decides whose boot you’ll be using more.

Explorer EV @ Ford Motor Company / Ford Media Center

Daily Tech and Interactions: Familiar Luxury vs. No-Nonsense Usability

Technology in the BMW leans toward a premium interpretation with polished displays and an interface that rewards a little time to learn its rhythms, whereas the Ford takes a more straightforward route focused on quick access and user-friendly menus. Connectivity and driver assists are solid on both, but the feel of the systems — tactile feedback, logic of controls and how quickly common tasks are completed — varies. In short, one will please tech-savvy, style-conscious users and the other will appeal to those who prefer immediate, fuss-free operation. Your tolerance for menus and customisation will shape which cabin feels smarter.

iX1 @ BMW Group Press

Who Should Buy Which: Matching Cars to Lives

If you’re a style-conscious commuter who values a premium badge and engaging city driving, the BMW will speak to you with its composed manners and tailored cabin; if your life revolves around family logistics, weekend kit and a relaxed long-distance ride, the Ford’s more utilitarian, room-first approach will feel more at home. Urban singles and couples might prefer the BMW’s compact refinement, while families and practical users will appreciate the Ford’s user-centric layout and straightforward usability. Ultimately, it’s about matching temperament to daily routines rather than chasing headline figures.

Keep Reading — the DriveDuel Champion Is Coming Up

Want to know which model takes the DriveDuel crown? Stay with us as we break down ownership costs, real-world usability and long-term impressions — the DriveDuel Champion will be revealed afterwards, so turn the page and keep your favourites in mind.

Here’s where it gets real: The technical differences in detail

Costs and Efficiency:

Price and efficiency are key factors when choosing a car – and this is often where the real differences emerge.

Ford Explorer EV has a evident advantage in terms of price – it starts at 34200 £, while the BMW iX1 costs 41800 £. That’s a price difference of around 7628 £.

In terms of energy consumption, the advantage goes to the Ford Explorer EV: with 14.50 kWh per 100 km, it’s slight more efficient than the BMW iX1 with 15.80 kWh. That’s a difference of about 1.30 kWh.

As for range, the Ford Explorer EV performs clearly perceptible better – achieving up to 602 km, about 139 km more than the BMW iX1.

Engine and Performance:

Power, torque and acceleration say a lot about how a car feels on the road. This is where you see which model delivers more driving dynamics.

When it comes to engine power, the Ford Explorer EV has a barely noticeable edge – offering 340 HP compared to 313 HP. That’s roughly 27 HP more horsepower.

In acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h, the Ford Explorer EV is slight quicker – completing the sprint in 5.30 s, while the BMW iX1 takes 5.60 s. That’s about 0.30 s faster.

There’s no difference in top speed – both reach 180 km/h.

There’s also a difference in torque: Ford Explorer EV pulls noticeable stronger with 679 Nm compared to 494 Nm. That’s about 185 Nm difference.

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Space and Everyday Use:

Beyond pure performance, interior space and usability matter most in daily life. This is where you see which car is more practical and versatile.

Both vehicles offer seating for 5 people.

In curb weight, Ford Explorer EV is slight lighter – 1908 kg compared to 1940 kg. The difference is around 32 kg.

In terms of boot space, the BMW iX1 offers minimal more room – 490 L compared to 450 L. That’s a difference of about 40 L.

In maximum load capacity, the BMW iX1 performs hardly perceptible better – up to 1495 L, which is about 73 L more than the Ford Explorer EV.

When it comes to payload, Ford Explorer EV to a small extent takes the win – 585 kg compared to 495 kg. That’s a difference of about 90 kg.

Who wins the race?

The Ford Explorer EV proves to be outperforms in nearly all aspects and therefore becomes our DriveDuel Champion!
Ford Explorer EV is the better all-rounder in this comparison.

from about £34,200

@ Ford Motor Company / Ford Media Center

Ford Explorer EV

Price : 34200 - 48800 £
Body Type : SUV
Engine Type : Electric
Transmission : Automatic
Transmission Detail : Reduction Gearbox
Drive Type : Rear-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
Power HP : 170 - 340 HP
Consumption kWh/100km : 14.5 - 17.2 kWh
Electric Range : 360 - 602 km
Battery Capacity : 52 - 79 kWh
Seats : 5
Acceleration 0-100km/h : 5.3 - 8.7 s
Model Year : 2024 - 2025
Max Speed : 160 - 180 km/h
Torque : 310 - 679 Nm
Doors : 5
Model : Explorer EV
Modell : Explorer EV Extended Range (77 kWh), Explorer EV Extended Range (79 kWh), Explorer EV Standard Range (52 kWh)
CO2 Efficiency Class : A
Trim Level : Premium, Premium AWD, Style, Select, Select AWD
Power kW : 125 - 250 kW
co2 : 0 g/km
Curb weight : 1908 - 2179 kg
Trunk capacity : 445 - 450 L
Length : 4468 mm
Width : 1871 mm
Height : 1630 - 1639 mm
Brand : Ford
Max trunk capacity : 1417 - 1422 L
Payload : 561 - 585 kg

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BMW iX1

5 (2)

The BMW iX1 stands out as a versatile addition to the electric vehicle market, seamlessly combining compact dimensions with advanced electric technology. Its sophisticated design elements and premium interiors ensure a luxurious driving experience, while the vehicle's performance focuses on delivering both efficiency and agility. With enhanced connectivity features and an emphasis on sustainability, this model represents a significant step forward in BMW's commitment to a greener future.

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@ BMW Group Press

@ BMW Group Press

@ BMW Group Press

@ BMW Group Press

@ BMW Group Press

Ford Explorer EV

5 (2)

The Ford Explorer EV marks a significant step forward in the brand's journey towards electrification, offering an impressive blend of performance and sustainability. This modern SUV features a sleek design complemented by advanced technology that enhances the driving experience. With a focus on comfort and innovation, the Explorer EV aims to redefine family travel for the electric age.

details

@ Ford Motor Company / Ford Media Center

@ Ford Motor Company / Ford Media Center

@ Ford Motor Company / Ford Media Center

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Ford Explorer EV

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BMW iX1

Ford Explorer EV

@ BMW Group Press	@ Ford Motor Company / Ford Media Center

Costs and Consumption
Price 41800 - 54600 £	Price 34200 - 48800 £
Consumption L/100km -	Consumption L/100km -
Consumption kWh/100km 15.8 - 17.1 kWh	Consumption kWh/100km 14.5 - 17.2 kWh
Electric Range 436 - 463 km	Electric Range 360 - 602 km
Battery Capacity 64.80 kWh	Battery Capacity 52 - 79 kWh
co2 0 g/km	co2 0 g/km
Fuel tank capacity -	Fuel tank capacity -

Dimensions and Body
Body Type SUV	Body Type SUV
Seats 5	Seats 5
Doors 5	Doors 5
Curb weight 1940 - 2085 kg	Curb weight 1908 - 2179 kg
Trunk capacity 490 L	Trunk capacity 445 - 450 L
Length 4500 mm	Length 4468 mm
Width 1845 mm	Width 1871 mm
Height 1616 mm	Height 1630 - 1639 mm
Max trunk capacity 1495 L	Max trunk capacity 1417 - 1422 L
Payload 495 kg	Payload 561 - 585 kg

Engine and Performance
Engine Type Electric	Engine Type Electric
Transmission Automatic	Transmission Automatic
Transmission Detail Reduction Gearbox	Transmission Detail Reduction Gearbox
Drive Type Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive	Drive Type Rear-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
Power HP 204 - 313 HP	Power HP 170 - 340 HP
Acceleration 0-100km/h 5.6 - 8.6 s	Acceleration 0-100km/h 5.3 - 8.7 s
Max Speed 170 - 180 km/h	Max Speed 160 - 180 km/h
Torque 250 - 494 Nm	Torque 310 - 679 Nm
Number of Cylinders -	Number of Cylinders -
Power kW 150 - 230 kW	Power kW 125 - 250 kW
Engine capacity -	Engine capacity -