2027 BMW iX3 M60: 603 HP for $70K+?

I've seen plenty of high-powered BMWs roll through my shop over the years, and this new iX3 M60 has the specs to back up the M badge. Car and Driver got the details on the 2027 model, and here's the short version: 603 horsepower, 645 lb-ft of torque, and a claimed 0-62 mph time of 3.9 seconds. That's a full second quicker than the already quick iX3 50.

BMW gets the extra grunt from an enhanced rear motor with a new stator, a more powerful inverter, and a higher max rotor speed. They also stretched the gear ratio to hit 149 mph instead of 130. Both the 50 and M60 share an 800-volt system and a 112-kWh battery pack, with peak charging at 400 kW. The iX3 50 is rated for up to 434 miles of EPA range. The M60? Car and Driver says you'll be under 400 miles because it comes standard with 21-inch wheels, and optional 22-inchers will drop the number even further.

On the chassis side, the M60 gets adaptive dampers, variable steering, bigger brakes, and an electronically controlled rear diff. BMW's new "Heart of Joy" superbrain handles the dynamic systems. Inside, the dashboard is basically one pillar-to-pillar display, with a 17.9-inch hexagonal touchscreen standard. You can add a 3-D head-up display and sport seats that'll hold you in the corners. A 13-speaker Harman Kardon system with Dolby Atmos is standard. There's also hands-free driving up to 85 mph, but you still have to keep your eyes on the road—it's Level 2.

You'll spot the M60 by its roof spoiler, unique lights, and the M badge on the rear. Ordering opens at the end of January next year, and production starts in the spring at BMW's Hungary factory. The iX3 50 starts at $62,850, so Car and Driver figures the M60 will likely top $70,000.

If you're dropping seventy grand on an electric SUV, you'd better be sure the range works for you. I'd wait for the official EPA numbers before writing a check. But on paper, this thing looks like a proper hot rod that can also haul the family.

• 2027
• BMW
• electric SUV
• iX3 M60
• Neue Klasse
• performance