- Like the regular iX3, the performance-focused M60 xDrive supports 400 kW charging.
- BMW has made significant modifications to the SUV’s chassis and suspension.
- Joining the performance upgrades are several styling and interior tweaks.
The second-generation iX3 has proven that BMW can build an EV to rival the best coming out of Asia. Now, the German brand has launched the high-performance iX3 M60 xDrive, eager to show it can build not only an efficient EV, but one that packs a serious punch.
Like other iX3 models, the M60 xDrive has a sizeable 112.2 kWh battery pack that powers motors at the front and rear axles. It’s the rear motor that’s received most of BMW’s attention, featuring a new stator and a more powerful inverter, contributing to a combined 603 horsepower and 645 pound-feet (874 Nm) of torque. BMW says the iX3 M60 xDrive needs just 3.9 seconds to hit 62 mph (100 km/h), making this electric SUV quicker than a rear-wheel drive BMW M3. Not too shabby.
Read: BMW’s New iX3 Can Physically Refuse To Let You Open Your Own Door
Not only does the M60 xDrive accelerate harder than any normal iX3, but the top speed has also been raised to 149 mph (240 km/h) thanks to a longer gear ratio. Just like other iX3 models, this version supports DC fast charging speeds of up to 400 kW, and AC charging at 15.4 kW. Curiously, BMW hasn’t released a driving range figure for the M60 xDrive, nor has it said how long it takes to charge the battery.
BMW’s ‘Heart of Joy’
It’s not just more power and torque that makes the iX3 M60 xDrive a little special. It includes BMW’s ‘Heart of Joy’ computer working alongside the new BMW M Dynamic Performance Control Driving Stack, ensuring this SUV delivers the type of handling you’d expect from a true M car. BMW also says it’s refined the EV’s regenerative braking system, ensuring it stops more smoothly than any of its other models.
While this isn’t a fully-fledged M model, the iX3 M60 xDrive comes fitted as standard with Adaptive M Suspension and electronically controlled dampers, which will also play a key part in the overall dynamics and handling. There’s also an updated and improved variable steering rack ratio that adjusts the effort depending on the drive mode.
Perhaps the single biggest handling upgrade is the fitment of an electronically controlled M Sport differential at the rear axle. Tweaks have also been made to the anti-roll bar links, and the underbody also includes more front-end bracing.
What About The Design?
While there’s plenty to differentiate the M60 xDrive from other iX3 versions under the skin, it doesn’t look dramatically different from the outside. The most obvious change is the distinctive light elements on either side of the kidney grilles, in addition to the availability of yellow driving lights. All iX3 M60 xDrive models also come standard with the M Sport package and the BMW Iconic Glow exterior package, the latter of which includes selectable lighting elements at the front and at the rear. Other changes include new standard 21-inch M wheels and several optional 21- and 22-inch wheels.
The cabin is also all very familiar. All the same core components as other iX3s remain, including the Panoramic iDrive system, the angled central infotainment display, and an optional 3D head-up display. Fitted as standard is an M Sport steering wheel with special Boost Mode and M Mode buttons. BMW has also equipped the M60 xDrive with M Sport seats with 10-way power adjustment and massage functions. Distinctive M graphics and colors are also used throughout.
Several apps specific to the M60 xDrive are also available. These include the M Cockpit app, which tracks and displays key vehicle signals and driving dynamics data, as well as the M Drag Meter app. A 13-speaker audio system with Dolby Atmos is also fitted as standard equipment.
BMW has yet to announce US pricing for the iX3 M60 xDrive, but it has confirmed US orders will open at the end of January.
