BMW keeps expanding its new-generation electric SUV lineup. Hot on the heels of the iX4, which was unveiled yesterday, the company has now officially announced the iX3 M60 xDrive, the flagship of the second-generation iX3 family. While it isn't positioned as a full-blown M car, its performance figures leave plenty of classic M models behind.

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603 hp and 874 Nm of torque

The M60 xDrive uses the same large 112.2 kWh battery as the standard iX3 models, and draws its power from two electric motors, one on each axle. BMW's engineers focused their attention on the rear motor: thanks to a revised stator and a more powerful inverter, total system output reaches 603 hp, with torque of 874 Nm.

That output propels the SUV from 0 to 100 km/h in 3.9 seconds — meaning the iX3 M60 xDrive accelerates faster than a rear-wheel-drive BMW M3. Top speed is set at 240 km/h.

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New chassis tech for cornering performance

BMW hasn't neglected handling in pursuit of straight-line speed. The car pairs the brand's central control computer, dubbed "Heart of Joy," with the new "BMW M Dynamic Performance Control" driving management system. Adaptive M Suspension with electronically controlled dampers is standard, automatically adjusting stiffness and response times according to the selected drive mode.

Fast charging up to 400 kW

On the charging front, the platform's full capability is on offer: like the other iX3 variants, the M60 xDrive supports DC fast charging at up to 400 kW. AC and home charging tops out at 15.4 kW. However, BMW has not yet revealed the range figure, or how long the battery takes to charge from one percentage point to another.

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How do you spot it?

Design-wise, the M60 xDrive largely keeps the standard iX3's lines. The most obvious difference is the distinctive light elements flanking the kidney grilles, while yellow daytime running lights are available as an option. The car rides on standard 21-inch M wheels, with 21- and 22-inch wheel alternatives in different designs on the options list.