BMW adds new iX3 M60 xDrive with 603 HP and ‘extensive’ M upgrades

BMW has expanded its electric SUV lineup with the new high-performance BMW iX3 M60 xDrive, packing a combined 603 HP and 645 lb-ft of torque from its dual-motor all-wheel-drive powertrain. The flagship EV sprints from 0 to 62 mph in just 3.9 seconds, making it nearly a full second faster than the standard iX3 50 xDrive, which puts out 463 HP and 476 lb-ft of torque with a 0 to 62 mph time of 4.7 seconds. The extra muscle comes courtesy of a new Gen6 electronically controlled synchronous motor on the rear axle, a newly developed stator, and a more powerful inverter. It also benefits from a longer gear ratio that pushes the top speed to 149 mph, compared to 130 mph on the standard model. Underneath, the M60 uses BMW’s Gen6 eDrive, an 800V architecture, and a 112.2 kWh battery, though range details are not specified yet, except that it will likely fall short of the iX3 50’s EPA-estimated 434 miles. Visually, the M60 features exclusive M design elements inspired by past racing cars like the BMW M Hybrid V8, including progressive light elements on both sides of the redesigned kidney grille featuring three elements inspired by the M stripes and an integrated M badge. It rides on standard 21-inch M alloy wheels, with optional 22-inch M aerodynamic wheels available. Inside, standard equipment includes a 17-inch central touchscreen, a 43-inch BMW Panoramic Vision display, an M Sport steering wheel with shy-tech controls, a red 12 o’clock marker, and dedicated physical buttons for M Sport and M Sport Plus modes. An optional 3D Head-Up Display is also offered, alongside optional M Sport seats with lumbar support, adjustable thigh support, and a massage function. Audio duties are handled by a standard 13-speaker Harman Kardon hi-fi system with Dolby Atmos. Handling is bolstered by standard Adaptive M Suspension, electronically controlled dampers, an electronically controlled M Sport differential at the rear axle, model-specific spring and damper tuning, and front-axle anti-roll bar links. Safety tech includes SAE Level 2 driver assistance via BMW Symbiotic Drive, alongside an optional Highway Assistant allowing hands-free driving up to 85 mph. BMW will open orders for the iX3 M60 xDrive at the end of January 2027, with pricing to be announced closer to launch, positioned above the standard 50 xDrive’s $61,500 starting price.