BMW iX xDrive40, iX M60 to Bolster Electric SUV Lineup in Canada
BMW has revealed two new iX models to bolster its electric SUV lineup. Both will hit the market in Canada this June, joining the iX xDrive50 that’s already on sale.
The automaker hopes to attract more potential customers with these models, one of which is positioned at the entry level and the other as a performance flagship.
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iX M60
Let’s start with the most spectacular and exciting BMW iX. Called M60, it boosts output up to 610 horsepower and peak torque to 811 pound-feet—the highest torque figure ever in a production BMW. It’s described as embodying the best of BMW i electric vehicles, BMW X utility vehicles and BMW M performance models.
Acceleration from 0-100 km/h is a matter of 3.8 seconds, while top speed is electronically limited at 250 km/h. As for range, it is estimated for now at 450 kilometres, but we’ll have to wait for the official rating from Natural Resources Canada. Incidentally, the battery has a usable capacity of 106 kWh and can be charged from 10-80 percent in 49 minutes using a 100kW DC fast charger.
The iX M60 benefits from highly responsive, actuator-based wheel slip limitation and a specifically tuned, dual-axle M air suspension with automatic level control to ensure superior agility and precision in corners. It further stands out with high-performance brake calipers painted in blue, various Titanium Bronze exterior accents and available 22-inch aerodynamic wheels featuring exclusive Titanium Bronze design.
Canadian pricing for the BMW iX M60 is set at $121,750, which is a lot more expensive than a Tesla Model Y Performance, but cheaper than a Model X.
iX xDrive40
For drivers interested in a more affordable alternative, the BMW iX xDrive40 will also be sold in Canada starting at $79,990, effectively undercutting the iX xDrive50 by 10 grand.
Equipped with a 71kWh (net) battery and dual motors, this model features all-wheel drive and is able to generate 322 horsepower along with 465 pound-feet of torque. It can sprint from 0-100 km/h in 6.1 seconds and reach a top speed of 200 km/h. Range is not specified yet. Charging the battery from 10-80 percent takes 41 minutes via a 100kW DC fast charger.
All iX models boast a plethora of advanced safety and driver assistance systems backed by a new generation of sensors, a new software stack and a powerful computing platform. The latest iDrive 8 infotainment system powers the large curved display and incorporates BMW’s Intelligent Personal Assistant.
One last thing: the BMW iX is built in a German factory that uses 100 percent green energy. In addition, many of the materials either come from controlled sources (aluminum, cobalt, lithium, etc.) or use recycled content (plastic).
