BMW iX M60: A Powerful Electric SUV That Sacrifices Comfort for Speed

The 2023 BMW iX M60 has arrived, bringing a surge of power to the electric SUV segment. With up to 610 horsepower and 811 pound-feet of torque, this high-performance variant of the iX promises exhilarating acceleration and a more aggressive design. However, as CNET’s Antuan Goodwin discovered during his test drive, the M60’s impressive performance comes at a cost – both financially and in terms of comfort.

More Power, More Problems?

The iX M60’s electric powertrain is based on the same 111.5-kilowatt-hour battery as the xDrive50 model, but with a significant boost in output. The M60’s dual-motor setup delivers up to 610 horsepower in Sport mode, with a mind-bending 811 pound-feet of torque when launch control is activated. This translates to a blistering 0-60 mph time of just 3.6 seconds, nearly a full second quicker than the xDrive50.

However, this extra oomph comes at a price. The M60’s starting price of $109,895 (including destination) is a whopping $24,800 more than the xDrive50. Even when comparing to an xDrive50 with the Dynamic Handling package, the price difference is still a considerable $17,700.

Firmer Ride, Less Range

To handle the increased power, BMW has recalibrated the M60’s air suspension and fitted thicker stabilizer bars. While this setup provides more dynamic handling, it also results in a harsher ride, especially on imperfect roads. Even in Comfort mode, the M60’s suspension proved more punishing over bumps and potholes compared to the lower-slung i4 M50 sedan.

The larger wheels available on the M60 (21 or 22 inches) also contribute to a reduction in range. The 21-inch wheels drop the EPA-estimated range from 288 miles to 274 miles, while the 22-inch wheels further reduce it to 267 miles. This is a significant decrease compared to the xDrive50’s range of 305 to 324 miles, depending on the wheel and tire combination.

M Sport Design and iDrive 8

Visually, the M60 distinguishes itself with a more aggressive front fascia that better complements BMW’s controversial vertical kidney grille design. Inside, the cabin remains largely unchanged from the xDrive50, with the same spacious and minimalist layout.

The M60 features BMW’s new iDrive 8 infotainment system, which consists of a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a larger 14.9-inch main touchscreen. While the system is responsive and highly customizable, it has a steep learning curve due to its complex interface and overwhelming initial menu layout.

Iconic Sounds and Tech Features

Drivers can choose between silent operation or enabling BMW’s Iconic Sounds, which fill the cabin with artificial powertrain noise. The M60 has a unique Sport mode tone that’s louder and more aggressive than the base model. Additionally, new Relax and Expressive Iconic Sounds themes have been added, offering options like an angelic chorus or sci-fi soundtrack – entertaining but perhaps too unusual for everyday use.

The iX M60 comes standard with advanced driver-assistance features like hands-free Traffic Jam Assist, hands-free parking assist, adaptive cruise control, and lane-keep assist. The Executive package, priced at $3,000, adds convenience features like soft-close doors and a unique wood and glass center console.

The Verdict: Power at a Price

While the BMW iX M60 undoubtedly offers impressive performance and a more cohesive M Sport design, its high price tag and compromises in comfort and range make it a tough sell for most buyers. The xDrive50, with its still-exhilarating 516 horsepower and better range, represents a much better value for the majority of shoppers in this segment.

As Goodwin concludes, “Most people shopping for a vehicle in this class will find the BMW iX xDrive50’s 516 hp and 4.4 second 0-to-60 sprint exciting enough and a much better value.”

Tags: BMW, iX M60, electric SUV, performance, power, acceleration, range, iDrive 8, Iconic Sounds, M Sport, luxury

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