BMW introduces a high-performance version of its iX CUV at CES 2022 in Las Vegas.
The iX M60 is the second electric model from the German automaker’s M performance division, following the recently unveiled i4 M50. Pricing is yet to be announced, though BMW has confirmed North American sales of its new flagship i model will begin in June 2022.
Power for the Tesla Model X Plaid-rivaling CUV comes from an upgraded version of the iX xDrive50’s dual-electric-motor drivetrain developing peak power of 610 hp in Sport mode. It is accompanied by a nominal 748 lb.-ft. (1,014 Nm) of torque – the highest torque loading ever offered in a BMW series-production road car.
With the Launch mode activated, torque increases by 63 lb.-ft. (85 Nm) to an even stronger 811 lb.-ft. (1,100 Nm) for short periods of full acceleration.
By comparison, the iX xDrive delivers a maximum 516 hp and 564 lb.-ft. (765 Nm).
Drive is channeled through a fixed-ratio gearbox. The iX M60 can switch between rear-wheel drive and all-wheel drive depending on the driving mode. A torque-vectoring function apportions power to each of the rear wheels depending on prevailing traction and yaw angle.
BMW M claims a 0-62 mph (100 km/h) time of 3.8 seconds, some 0.8 seconds faster than the iX xDrive50. Top speed is limited to 155 mph (250 km/h), an increase of 31mph (50 km/h) on its standard sibling.
The iX M60’s upgraded electric motors operate in combination with the same 111.5-kWh (gross) lithium-ion battery as standard versions of the iX. It can be charged at up to 11 kW on AC or 200 kW on DC electricity.
The official WLTP range is 357 miles (575 km) – 35 miles (56 km) less than the iX xDrive50. This indicates the new electric-powered BMW M model will receive an EPA rating of under 300 miles (483 km).
The performance CUV will be sold with BMW’s new Iconic Sounds synthesizer as an option. It provides a range of different sounds composed by Academy Award-winning music composer Hans Zimmer.
Changes differentiating the iX M60 from the iX xDrive50 include bronze-colored highlights within the exterior, blue-colored brake calipers and uniquely styled 22-in. wheels.
Inside are M-specific instrument graphics among other individual touches.
