The luxury EV segment in India has evolved into a three-way showdown — BMW iX, Audi Q8 e-tron, and Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV. Each represents its brand’s unique approach to electric performance, range, and design.
With the 2025 BMW iX facelift arriving in India this November, competition is intensifying like never before. But how does BMW’s latest iteration stack up against its German rivals?
Let’s break it down — power, range, charging speed, design, and luxury — to see which one truly rules the premium EV segment in 2025–26.
1. Overview — The New Face of Luxury EV Competition
The electric SUV market has matured rapidly. Indian buyers no longer see EVs as futuristic experiments — they’re now demanding real luxury and performance backed by global standards.
All three contenders — BMW iX, Audi Q8 e-tron, and Mercedes EQS SUV — offer long-range confidence, advanced interiors, and powerful dual-motor setups. Yet, their core personalities differ:
- BMW iX: Bold, tech-forward, with precise German handling
- Audi Q8 e-tron: Conservative, comfort-biased, classic Audi feel
- Mercedes EQS SUV: Opulent, futuristic, but less driver-focused
2. Price Comparison (India, ex-showroom)
| Model | Expected Price (₹ Crore) | Segment Position |
|---|---|---|
| BMW iX 2025 (Facelift) | 1.25 – 1.80 | Performance luxury EV SUV |
| Audi Q8 e-tron | 1.15 – 1.30 | Balanced premium SUV |
| Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV | 1.75 – 2.00 | Ultra-luxury EV SUV |
BMW sits in the sweet spot — priced between Audi’s practicality and Mercedes’ extravagance — offering both performance and luxury in a single package.
3. Powertrain & Performance
The 2025 iX facelift gains improved eDrive motors, while the EQS and Q8 retain their existing setups. The difference is clear in raw power output and acceleration.
| Model | Power (PS) | Torque (Nm) | 0–100 km/h (sec) | Top Speed (km/h) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BMW iX M70 xDrive | 659 | 1,100 | 3.8 | 250 |
| Mercedes EQS 580 4MATIC SUV | 544 | 858 | 4.6 | 210 |
| Audi Q8 55 e-tron | 408 | 664 | 5.6 | 200 |
The BMW iX M70 is the most powerful and quickest of the trio — making it the clear driver’s choice.
Even the iX xDrive60, with 536 PS, outpaces both Audi and Mercedes in real-world responsiveness thanks to BMW’s instant torque calibration.
4. Range and Battery Capacity
Range is where BMW has made the biggest leap with the facelift.
| Model | Battery Capacity (kWh) | Claimed WLTP Range (km) | Fast Charging Speed (kW) |
|---|---|---|---|
| BMW iX xDrive60 | 109.1 | 701 | 195 |
| Mercedes EQS SUV 580 | 107.8 | 610 | 200 |
| Audi Q8 e-tron 55 | 106 | 600 | 170 |
BMW edges ahead with the highest WLTP range (701 km) and highly efficient battery chemistry — outperforming both its rivals in long-distance comfort and charging optimization.
5. Charging and Efficiency
BMW’s charging ecosystem in India is expanding quickly, with fast-chargers across all major dealerships and partners like Tata Power.
Charging Comparison:
- BMW iX 2025: 10–80% in ~30 minutes (195 kW DC)
- Mercedes EQS SUV: 10–80% in ~31 minutes (200 kW DC)
- Audi Q8 e-tron: 10–80% in ~33 minutes (170 kW DC)
Despite slightly slower DC power than Mercedes, BMW compensates with better thermal efficiency — maintaining consistent charge speed even in Indian heat.
6. Design & Exterior Character
All three SUVs have distinct styling philosophies:
| Model | Design Language | Notable Elements |
|---|---|---|
| BMW iX 2025 | Futuristic yet bold | Illuminated kidney grille, sharper DRLs, new aero wheels |
| Mercedes EQS SUV | Smooth and elegant | Hyperscreen-inspired curves, chrome-heavy finish |
| Audi Q8 e-tron | Conservative and solid | Revised matrix headlights, clean Audi lines |
The iX facelift delivers the most balanced look — futuristic but muscular — and its illuminated grille has become an instant signature on Indian roads.
7. Interior and Tech Experience
Luxury is subjective, but BMW’s cabin feels the most driver-centric among the three.
| Model | Infotainment System | Display & Interface | Audio System |
|---|---|---|---|
| BMW iX 2025 | iDrive 8.5 | 12.3” + 14.9” curved display | 30-speaker Bowers & Wilkins |
| Mercedes EQS SUV | MBUX Hyperscreen | 56” glass interface | Burmester 3D |
| Audi Q8 e-tron | MMI Touch Response | Dual 10.1” + 8.6” screens | Bang & Olufsen 3D |
Mercedes leads in sheer screen real estate, but BMW’s interface responsiveness and customization make it more practical and intuitive for daily use.
8. Ride, Handling, and Comfort
BMW’s adaptive dual-axle air suspension and low center of gravity give it superior balance compared to the EQS and Q8.
The EQS SUV focuses on rear-seat comfort, while the Q8 prioritizes ride plushness.
Verdict:
- Driver’s SUV: BMW iX
- Luxury-focused: Mercedes EQS SUV
- Comfort-oriented: Audi Q8 e-tron
9. Verdict — BMW Leads the Pack
BMW’s iX facelift stands out as the best-rounded luxury EV SUV for India.
It combines:
- Highest power output (659 PS)
- Longest range (701 km WLTP)
- Fastest real-world acceleration
- Futuristic yet functional cabin
- Most engaging drive
The Mercedes EQS SUV excels in luxury, and the Audi Q8 e-tron wins on refinement, but BMW offers the ideal middle ground — a driver’s EV that doesn’t compromise comfort.
FAQs — BMW iX vs Audi Q8 e-tron vs Mercedes EQS SUV
Q1. Which EV SUV offers the best range in India?
The BMW iX xDrive60 leads with a claimed 701 km WLTP range.
Q2. Which model is the most powerful?
The BMW iX M70 produces up to 659 PS and 1,100 Nm, the highest in its class.
Q3. Which EV charges fastest?
The Mercedes EQS SUV supports up to 200 kW DC fast charging, but BMW’s 195 kW charger maintains higher consistency.
Q4. Which EV has the most luxurious interior?
The Mercedes EQS SUV wins for opulence, while BMW offers a sportier, tech-rich design.
Q5. Which EV is best for driving enthusiasts?
Without a doubt, the BMW iX 2025 facelift — it’s the sharpest and most engaging to drive.
