Experienced by Leon Brittain
Rollercoaster screams were all I heard from passengers after igniting the dual electric motors with full throttle from BMW’s “ultimate electric driving machine,” known as the 2023 iX M60. The high-performance electric Sport Activity Vehicle (SAV) has a total system output of up to 610 horsepower and 811 lb-ft of torque with Launch Control activated. Not only is the sustainable and emissions-free EV fast as Marlins with a 0 to 60 mph time of 3.6 seconds, but it also integrates three core products from BMW into one mega ride: BMW i, BMW X, and BMW M GmbH. Yet, you have to pay to play since the iX M60 has an MSRP of $105,100 plus a $995 destination and handling fee.
When the somewhat futuristic BMW arrived at my office for a weekly test drive, I suspected it was performance-oriented since the Letter M is represented in the symbolism. Still, I had no clue how explosive its power and acceleration were. The 2023 BMW iX M60 garnered similar dynamics and speeds to electric sports cars currently available to environmentally conscious consumers. So, it shows the capabilities of hyper electric vehicles and what’s imminent from both a technology and a carbon-neutral disposition. However, BMW does need to work on its EV design themes as the iX doesn’t give off emotional chills like the Audi e-Tron, Lucid Air, or Porsche Taycan. When the DNA of the i8 is revitalized, then BMW will be back in business.
My loaner came in a Dark Graphite Metallic with designer 22″ Air Performance two-toned rims, M Sport brakes with blue calipers (an M tradition), Panoramic Sky Lounge LED Roof, flush door handles, Icon Adaptive LED Headlights with Laserlight technology, and BMW’s new space-aged vertical kidney grilles. Its aluminum spaceframe with Carbon Core Technology is lighter than conventional materials but rigid. One of my favorite features is the Iconic Sounds Electric which the SAV makes upon acceleration as if you’re piloting one of Star Wars’ Imperial Star Destroyers. The Sport Package is standard and adds a bit more flavor as well. Other dynamic engineering suites include an M-calibrated Adaptive Dual-Axle Air Suspension, Integral Active Steering, xDrive Dual-Motor All-Wheel Drive, Dynamic Brake Control, and Cornering Brake Control. Now I see why the iX M60 was hugging turns at high speeds when I pushed it, even in the rain!
The EPA range of the SAV was originally estimated at 280 miles but my vehicle stopped charging at 299 miles which is the norm for today’s EVs. Of course, you will zap that juice quicker if predominantly driven aggressively to feel that instantaneous electric torque. MY MODES alters how the vehicle reacts, whether set in Personal, Active, Sport, or Efficient (optimized for consumption) modes. I used my neighbor’s Level-2 home charger to re-up when I was running low on energy. With 70 miles left, the indicator said the estimated charge time for the high-voltage Lithium-Ion battery was six hours. Though, I would like to see dual charge ports located toward the front of the next iteration of BMW EVs as opposed to the one right-side rear port. The battery also receives small doses of current when your foot lifts off the accelerator, which additionally slows down the BMW in one-pedal driving mode. Here are BMW’s official charge times if you use public DC Fast Charging stations.
- Charging time, 10-80% DC minutes 97 @ 50 kW / 25A
- Charging time, 10-80% DC minutes 49 @ 100 kW / 250 A
- Charging time, 10-80% DC minutes 35 @ 250 kW / 500 A max
The iX’s BMW Live Cockpit Professional is gifted and denoted by reductive materials, clever spacing, and efficient ergonomics. For example, the minimalist steering wheel is hexagonally-shaped to present enhanced command of the SAV. Ambient Lighting flares whenever an operation is performed, the Bowers & Wilkins Diamond Surround Sound System is music to your ears, and Glass and Wood Controls add sophistication to basic commands. The crystalized iDrive rotary dial, seat adjustments, volume scroller, and gear shift elevate the purity and innovation of the cabin. The lengthy BMW Curved Display is graphically animated with navigation, audio interface, and swiping widgets such as the Adaptive Content screen. However, it sits on the dash like a home TV on a stand. I prefer an embedded design. An array of standard equipment to go along with other mentions include:
- Park Distance Control
- Dynamic Cruise Control
- Power Tailgate
- Comfort Access Keyless Entry
- 4-zone Automatic Climate Control
- Parking Assistant Plus
- Wireless Device Charging
- Surround View with 3D View
People, times are changing as the auto industry is gearing up for an all-electric shift and future. Are you ready for a BMW with exhilarating high-speed gravitational pull, comfort for five, and high-tech amenities? If so, the 2023 BMW iX M60 is your ultimate “electric driving machine!”
