The 2027 BMW iX3 M60 arrives as the brand’s most powerful electric SUV to date, combining M Performance engineering with a 603-horsepower electric drivetrain and a 3.9-second sprint to 60 mph. This top-tier variant of BMW’s all-electric iX3 lineup introduces aggressive handling characteristics alongside its performance hardware. Manufacturing kicks off in spring 2027, with customer orders opening at the end of January, though exact pricing and EPA-estimated range figures have not yet been released.
Performance and powertrain
The iX3 M60’s output comes from BMW’s latest sixth-generation M eDrive system, featuring an electric motor on each axle. The rear unit is a newly developed electrically excited synchronous motor paired with a 420-amp inverter, delivering the SUV’s combined 603 horsepower and 645 pound-feet of torque. This setup enables a 0-60 mph time of 3.9 seconds, outpacing many gasoline-powered sports sedans, and a top speed of 149 mph.
The M60’s 112.2 kWh battery exceeds the capacity of the standard iX3, though BMW has not yet provided an EPA range estimate. The base iX3 achieves up to 434 miles per charge, indicating the M60’s range will likely be slightly lower due to its increased power requirements.
A key innovation is the Heart of Joy processor, which processes driving inputs up to ten times faster than previous systems. This component coordinates powertrain, braking, steering, and regenerative braking in real time, working in tandem with M Dynamic Performance Control to optimize the SUV’s behavior under varied conditions.
Chassis and road manners
The iX3 M60’s performance extends beyond raw power to its chassis tuning. The SUV incorporates Adaptive M Suspension with electronically controlled dampers, a variable-ratio M Sport steering system for quicker responses, and a rear M Sport differential. Revised front-axle anti-roll-bar links reduce body roll, while stiffer front-end bracing enhances stability during aggressive maneuvers.
Standard equipment includes 21-inch M alloy wheels, with optional 22-inch aerodynamic wheels available on the M Performance version. Drivers can also specify M Sport brakes with red or blue calipers, paired with sport tires developed specifically for the model. The suspension and steering systems work together to create a more engaging driving experience compared to the base iX3.
BMW has enhanced the regenerative braking system with a Soft Stop function. This feature uses electric braking to halt the SUV smoothly without traditional brake pedal feedback or noise, making it suitable for nearly all everyday deceleration scenarios while maintaining efficiency.
Exterior and interior design
The iX3 M60’s exterior features distinctive M Sport styling cues, including a black rear diffuser, M-specific mirror caps, and an illuminated M logo integrated into the front lighting. The SUV comes standard with the M Sport package, and drivers can add M Yellow Lights, inspired by BMW’s race cars, as an option.
Inside, the cabin includes a 17.9-inch central display angled toward the driver, complemented by BMW Panoramic Vision projecting information onto the windshield. The M Sport steering wheel features dedicated buttons for Boost Mode and M Mode, along with a red 12 o’clock marker. Drivers can switch between M Sport and M Sport Plus settings directly from the wheel, adjusting powertrain, chassis, and steering responses.
The seats, available in M Sport or more luxurious Contemporary configurations, include side bolsters, lumbar support, and massage functionality, with an illuminated M logo in the headrests. The interior also houses BMW’s latest Panoramic iDrive interface and Operating System X, along with a 13-speaker Harman Kardon audio system supporting Dolby Atmos. The standard M interior uses black Veganza upholstery with M PerformTex. Buyers can also choose more upscale Contemporary and BMW Individual interior configurations.
