BMW has introduced the high-performance iX3 M60 xDrive, an electric SUV producing 603 horsepower and 645 pound-feet (874 Nm) of torque. Although it is not a fully fledged M model, the M60 receives extensive chassis and software upgrades intended to give it sharper handling than other iX3 versions.

The M60 xDrive uses the same 112.2-kWh battery pack found in other iX3 models, supplying electric motors on both axles. BMW has focused much of the powertrain development on the rear motor, which gains a new stator and a more powerful inverter.

With its combined output, the SUV can reach 62 mph (100 km/h) in 3.9 seconds, according to BMW. That makes it quicker to 62 mph than a rear-wheel-drive BMW M3. A longer gear ratio also raises the top speed to 149 mph (240 km/h).

The iX3 M60 xDrive supports DC fast charging at up to 400 kW and AC charging at 15.4 kW. BMW has not yet provided a driving-range figure for this version, and charging-time information has also not been released.

Performance hardware and control systems

BMW equips the M60 xDrive with its “Heart of Joy” computer, working alongside the BMW M Dynamic Performance Control Driving Stack. The company has also revised the regenerative-braking system, with the stated aim of delivering smoother stops than its other models.

Adaptive M Suspension with electronically controlled dampers is standard. The SUV also features an updated variable steering rack ratio that changes steering effort according to the selected drive mode.

Among the key mechanical upgrades is an electronically controlled M Sport differential at the rear axle. BMW has additionally revised the anti-roll-bar links and added more bracing beneath the front section of the vehicle.

Subtle exterior changes

The M60 xDrive’s exterior remains closely related to that of other iX3 models. Its most noticeable visual differences include distinctive lighting elements positioned beside the kidney grilles, along with the availability of yellow driving lights.

Every M60 xDrive includes the M Sport package and BMW’s Iconic Glow exterior package, which provides selectable lighting elements at the front and rear. Standard wheels measure 21 inches and carry an M design, while additional 21- and 22-inch wheel options are available.

Interior equipment and M-specific apps

The cabin retains the main layout and technology used in other iX3 models, including the Panoramic iDrive system, angled central infotainment display, and available 3D head-up display.

Standard equipment includes an M Sport steering wheel with dedicated Boost Mode and M Mode buttons. M Sport seats offer 10-way power adjustment and massage functions, while M graphics and colors appear throughout the interior.

The SUV also offers M-specific applications, including an M Cockpit app that displays vehicle signals and driving-dynamics data. An M Drag Meter app is available as well. A 13-speaker audio system with Dolby Atmos is standard.

BMW has not announced U.S. pricing for the iX3 M60 xDrive. U.S. orders are scheduled to open at the end of January.