A new variant of the BMW iX xDrive50 that was sampled back in the January 2022 issue has been given a green light for the first BMW M automobile designed for purely electric mobility from the outset, BMW group presents the third, even more powerful model variant of its technology flagship model; the BMW iX M60.
The debut of the BMW iX M60 together with the BMW i4 M50 marks a milestone in the history of BMW M GmbH, which began 50 years ago. The departure of the BMW M brand into the segment of electrified performance cars. Initial models are the iX xDrive40 and xDrive50 models but BMW revealed that a flagship M60 was also to be expected, this is an indicator that there is an appetite for an even more powerful version.
While using the SAV launch control function, the M60’s dual synchronous motor will produce 455 kW of power and an astonishing 1 100 N.m of torque and it will go from 0-100 km/h in just 3,8 seconds. Without using the launch control function the M60 will produce 397 kW and 1 016 N.m of torque. Like all iX models, the M60 makes use of dual synchronous electric motors as opposed to permanent magnetic ones. The high-voltage battery is located deep down in the underbody, lowering the vehicle’s centre of gravity which ensures agile handling as well as balanced axle load distribution.
As standard, the new variant benefits from the air suspension with electronic dampers, the auto levelling suspension comes to an advantage when managing corners, it easily adjusts itself and distributes weight load accordingly. The BMW iX M60 combines its typical M performance characteristics with the exceptionally advanced technology of the BMW Group’s new future modular system in the areas of automated driving, operation, connectivity and digital services. Like the other model variants, the BMW iX M60 features the most extensive range of standard equipment ever offered by BMW in the field of driver assistance systems as well as numerous innovations.
Several new features underline the M character of the BMW iX M60. The exterior is slightly imposing, the reduced surface design and precise details gives the new model a distinctive presence, BMW iX M60 sits on 22-inch M aerodynamic wheels featuring an exclusive titanium bronze design that is optional, brake calipers painted in blue, an M logo and high gloss black/titanium bronze finish on the front side panels.
Stepping into the cabin further differentiators from other models are the natural leather upholstery, heat comfort package, a Bowers & Wilkins Diamond Surround Sound System, ventilated front seats, sun protection glass and front electric and massage seats. The M60 also gets new the BMW Curved Display and voice communication with the extensively enhanced BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant, cloud-based navigation with BMW Maps system and augmented reality video.
In South Africa the BMW iX is available in xDrive40 and iX xDrive50 models. There is no word yet on local availability and pricing of of the iX M60, however simple napkin mathematics tells us that with the xDrive50 retailing at R2 175 000 in SA, an M60 could cost around R2 750 000 but only time will tell.
Find the full story in the April 2022 issue of CAR Magazine.
