BMW iX3 M60 xDrive revealed with 450kW, but Australian timing is still vague 

Key highlights

• The iX3 M60 xDrive produces 450kW and 875Nm, enough for a claimed 0-100km/h time of 3.9 seconds.
• It uses the same 108.7kWh battery as the 50 xDrive, with WLTP range of 754km, which is 51km less.
• BMW Australia has confirmed the M60 xDrive is coming to the iX4 range later in 2027, but local iX3 timing and pricing are not yet confirmed.

The 2027 BMW iX3 M60 xDrive has been unveiled as the new performance flagship of the second-generation iX3 range, bringing substantially more power and sharper driving hardware to BMW’s mid-size electric SUV. The new variant produces 450kW and 875Nm from a dual-motor electric powertrain, with drive sent to all four wheels. BMW has fitted a more powerful inverter and a new electrically excited synchronous motor to the rear axle, helping deliver the additional performance.

The result is a claimed 0-100km/h time of 3.9 seconds and a top speed of 240km/h. That makes the M60 xDrive a considerably quicker proposition than the iX3 50 xDrive, which produces 345kW and 645Nm and takes 4.9 seconds to reach 100km/h. The BMW iX3 M60 sits below the upcoming BMW iX3 M, which is expected to take the range further into high-performance territory. For buyers who want substantial acceleration without waiting for the full M model, the new variant adds another option to the electric SUV lineup.

Read more: 2027 BMW iX4 EV coupe price and specs for Australia

Range falls despite the larger performance output

The extra power comes with a modest reduction in driving range. The BMW iX3 M60 xDrive retains the 108.7kWh nickel manganese cobalt battery used in the 50 xDrive, but its claimed WLTP range falls to 754km. That is 51km less than the less powerful model. The figure is measured under the WLTP testing standard, so real-world range will vary with driving style, speed, temperature and the use of climate control.

For Australian drivers, highway speeds and long-distance travel will be important considerations when assessing the range available from either version. The BMW iX3 M60’s official figure remains substantial, although buyers prioritising maximum distance between charges may find the 50 xDrive more appealing. The SUV uses an 800-volt electrical architecture, supporting AC charging at up to 22kW and DC fast charging at up to 400kW. Actual charging times will depend on the charging station’s output, battery temperature and state of charge.

M Sport hardware and styling upgrades

BMW has made several chassis changes to complement the increased output. The M60 xDrive comes with an M Sport braking package, featuring a choice of blue or red brake calipers, alongside retuned adaptive M suspension. Two additional driving modes, M Sport and M Sport Plus, are also included. The standard wheels measure 21 inches in diameter, while 22-inch alloys are available as an option.

Exterior changes distinguish the M60 from other iX3 variants without substantially altering the SUV’s overall design. These include illuminated elements around the signature kidney grille, black M-design mirror caps with M-colour stripes, additional M badges, a roof spoiler and revised tail-light graphics.

Lighting details can vary between markets, including the availability of yellow driving lights when the main beams are activated.

Inside, the BMW iX3 M60 receives an M Sport steering wheel with a red marker at the top, M seat belts and sport seats with integrated head restraints and illuminated M logos. The seats feature 10-way electric adjustment and massage functionality. A 13-speaker Harman Kardon sound system with 430W of output is standard, alongside Level 2 driver assistance technology. BMW’s Motorway Assistant system supports hands-free driving at speeds of up to 130km/h where permitted and under the system’s operating conditions. Drivers must still follow local road rules and remain attentive.

Will the BMW iX3 M60 xDrive come to Australia?

Production of the BMW iX3 M60 xDrive is scheduled to begin in Debrecen, Hungary, in the second quarter of 2027. BMW Australia has confirmed that the closely related iX4 electric SUV range will gain the M60 xDrive variant later in 2027. However, that announcement does not confirm the same timing for the iX3 M60 xDrive. An Australian arrival is possible, but local availability and launch timing have not been confirmed. Australian pricing has also yet to be announced.

If it reaches local showrooms, the BMW M60 xDrive would give Australian buyers a more powerful alternative to the iX3 50 xDrive, with a higher performance ceiling and a slightly shorter claimed driving range. More details about its local specification and positioning will be needed before a direct price and equipment comparison can be made.