Pope’s New BMW: Design Controversy & Delivery

The BMW iX stirred up the waters of large SUVs with its bold design that evokes a study rather than a production car. The modernized design will now be used in the Vatican.

This is the xDrive60 version. It offers an output of 400 kW, 544 hp, a torque of 765 Nm, acceleration from 0-100 km/h in 4.6 s and a range of up to 701 km according to the WLTP protocol with a combined consumption of 21.9 kWh/100 km and a 110 kWh battery.

“We had the honor of presenting Pope Leo XIV with a BMW iX xDrive60, which demonstrates our approach to protecting the environment – ​​a topic we know is very important to the Holy Father and in which we deeply believe,” said Massimiliano Di Silvestre, President and CEO of BMW Italia.

A year ago, a new open Popemobile arrived in the Vatican, a modified electric G-class off-road, which became the latest piece in a long line of Popemobiles based on the G-class. The BMW iX will serve in the Vatican as an alternative, for example, when traveling. Škoda Enyaq also performed a similar service in the past.

Aiko Tanaka

Aiko Tanaka is a combat sports journalist and general sports reporter at Archysport. A former competitive judoka who represented Japan at the Asian Games, Aiko brings firsthand athletic experience to her coverage of judo, martial arts, and Olympic sports. Beyond combat sports, Aiko covers breaking sports news, major international events, and the stories that cut across disciplines — from doping scandals to governance issues to the business side of global sport. She is passionate about elevating the profile of underrepresented sports and athletes.

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