The BMW iX3 M60 xDrive (NA5) (Photo: BMW AG)
The NA5 iX3 has been around for a year now which has given people plenty of time to become familiar with the first model of the Neue Klasse. Upon launch, we in the United States only received the 50 xDrive variant. It wasn’t until last week that BMW announced an M-performance version to be added to the mix. The M60 xDrive will join the fleet beginning in January 2027 as the more performance oriented and exciting trim of the iX3.
The BMW iX3 M60 xDrive (NA5) (Photo: BMW AG)
So, just what differentiates the more pedestrian 50 xDrive to the more dialed M60 xDrive? Starting with the exterior, a clear indicator is the presence of the M Yellow Lights. While this is an optional extra, it’s taken directly from its motorsport counterparts and clearly enhances the sportiness. The M60 xDrive also receives the M Sport Package as standard, bringing an aero kit, aggressive front bumper, rear diffuser, blackened mirror caps and trim pieces. Widened hips and unique decklid spoiler are distinctly M60 xDrive. Also as standard, are hidden references to the three stripes of the “M” logo. These can be found on the mirror caps as well as next to the kidney grilles, connecting them in an elongated manner to the headlights. In terms of wheels, the big boy iX3 receives 21” as standard with 22” as an optional extra.
The BMW iX3 M60 xDrive (NA5) (Photo: BMW AG)
Stepping inside, the M-Performance variant isn’t all too different from what we are used to. The familiar BMW Panoramic iDrive is present using the latest edition of iDrive, Operating System X. The large center display sits proudly with a severe lack of buttons to help dress it up. In typical BMW fashion, it is angled towards the driver to provide a more driver-focused approach. An optional 3-D head-up display can also be found to further provide the driver with relevant information.
The BMW iX3 M60 xDrive (NA5) (Photo: BMW AG)
An M-sport steering wheel is provided as standard with a red strip at the twelve o’clock position. Different driving modes can be selected here depending on the driver’s mood, these include Boost Mode and M Mode. Opposite the steering wheel are standard M-Sport seats. Stiffened side bolsters to assist during spirited driving and illuminated M-logos in the headrest let you know the M60 xDrive is all about sport. Special M displays are used only in the M60 xDrive to further distinguish it from the other iX3 variants.
The BMW iX3 M60 xDrive (NA5) (Photo: BMW AG)
Powering the M60 xDrive are two electric motors, one at the front and one at the rear. These motors are good for 603 horsepower and 645 lb-ft of torque and can help send the approximately 5,000 lb. SUV to 60mph in 3.9 seconds. These numbers are greater than the outgoing F97 X3M Competition, so the iX3 M60 xDrive means serious business. The next generation X3M will be fully electric, so we can expect these figures to be even greater which is hard to grasp at how serious that vehicle will be.
Based off of the European WLTP testing cycle, the iX3 M60 xDrive has a very optimistic 468 miles of range. This is slightly less than the 50 xDrive, but also expected. All the sportier enhancements are not the most efficient and will deplete the charge a bit more compared to the standard trim. Once the EPA conducts its more strict tests, we can expect the range to be around 400 miles.
The BMW iX3 M60 xDrive (NA5) (Photo: BMW AG)
In addition to this absurd power, the M60 xDrive comes standard with Adaptive M suspension. This allows for customizable driving modes between M-Sport and M-Sport Plus. Stiffer suspension, sharper throttle, and tighter steering can all be found and fine tuned within these modes. The M goodies don’t here as an M-Sport differential comes standard on the rear axle. Electronically controlled, this allows for improved traction and handling especially on compromised surfaces. Additional improvements to the chassis were made to improve stiffness, reduce body roll, and enhance steering precision.
The BMW iX3 M60 xDrive (NA5) (Photo: BMW AG)
The iX3 M60 xDrive is a welcome addition to BMW’s ever expanding electric portfolio. An M-Performance version of an already super popular model will surely be a hit among casual shoppers and enthusiasts alike. It’s interesting to see the Neue Klasse receive the M treatment even if it is an “M-lite”. I am looking forward to seeing these arrive at dealers in a few months and to hopefully find myself behind the wheel of one. What’re your thoughts on the M-performance version of the NA5?
