Key highlights
- The BMW iX3 M60 and i3 M60 are expected to arrive in Australian showrooms in 2027.
- The performance models are expected to produce 450kW and 875Nm, up from 345kW and 645Nm in the 50 xDrive.
- Australian pricing is yet to be announced, but both models are expected to cost more than their existing counterparts.
BMW will expand its electric performance range in Australia next year, with the iX3 M60 SUV and i3 M60 sedan joining the line-up in 2027.
The two models will sit above the existing 50 xDrive variants, bringing more power and chassis upgrades to BMW’s latest electric vehicles. They will also join the previously confirmed iX4 M60, giving buyers three M60-badged electric models to choose from.
The M60 versions will serve as the performance flagships until BMW introduces full M models. The electric M3 is expected to arrive towards the end of 2027, followed by an electric X3 M around mid-2028, according to reports. Those timings remain subject to confirmation.
For Australian buyers, the M60 models will offer a middle ground between the regular electric range and BMW’s more focused M cars, with performance upgrades without having to wait for the full-fat versions.
BMW iX3 M60 gets 450kW and 875Nm
The iX3 M60 is expected to use an upgraded rear electric motor featuring a newly developed stator and an improved inverter. These changes allow the motor to deliver more power, while the front motor is believed to carry over largely unchanged from the 50 xDrive.
Combined output is quoted at 450kW and 875Nm, compared with 345kW and 645Nm in the existing iX3 50 xDrive.
BMW claims the iX3 M60 can accelerate from zero to 100km/h in 3.9 seconds, making it one second quicker than the 50 xDrive. Its top speed also rises from 210km/h to 240km/h, helped by longer gearing and other mechanical changes.
The extra performance does come with a small reduction in claimed driving range. The iX3 M60 is rated for up to 754km on a charge, using the same 108.7kWh usable battery as the less powerful model. The 50 xDrive has a maximum claimed range of 805km, although that figure applies to a version with smaller wheels and without the M Sport styling fitted to the M60.
DC charging remains rated at up to 400kW when connected to a compatible 800-volt charging station. BMW quotes a 10 to 80 per cent charge in 21 minutes.
Chassis upgrades aim to sharpen handling
The M60 package is not limited to a more powerful motor. The iX3 M60 will feature adaptive dampers, variable-ratio steering and an electronically controlled M Sport rear differential.
BMW has also revised the spring and damper tuning, added chassis bracing and fitted new front anti-roll bar links. These changes are intended to improve steering response and limit body roll through corners.
The same chassis upgrades are expected to feature on the i3 M60, although BMW has yet to confirm its complete specifications.
The SUVs also receive visual changes to distinguish them from standard models, including yellow daytime running lights inspired by motorsport, three-stripe lighting elements in the front grille panels, M-specific mirror caps, revised rear spoilers and M badges.
Inside, the M60 models gain M Sport seats, illuminated M logos on the headrests and three-stripe seatbelts. The steering wheel features a red 12 o’clock marker and shortcut buttons for Boost Mode and M Mode.
The 17.9-inch touchscreen and 43.3-inch Panoramic Vision display also gain M-specific functions, including a Drag Meter for measuring acceleration times and an M Cockpit view showing vehicle telemetry.
Australian pricing still to come
BMW has not announced Australian pricing for the iX3 M60 or i3 M60. Both are expected to cost more than their respective 50 xDrive versions.
The existing i3 50 xDrive is listed at $112,900, while the iX3 50 xDrive costs $112,500. The iX4 50 xDrive is priced at $119,900. These prices provide a guide to the current range, but the M60 models’ final Australian prices have not been confirmed.
The BMW iX3 M60, iX4 M60 and i3 M60 are all due in Australian showrooms in 2027. Further details, including pricing and the full specifications of the i3 M60, are expected closer to their respective launches.
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