The BMW iX xDrive60 M Sport proves that electric performance doesn’t have to come at the expense of luxury or everyday usability. It is brutally quick, impressively refined and packed with technology, yet it still manages to feel unmistakably like a BMW. It’s expensive, undeniably bold in its styling and perhaps a little too digital for some, but as an all-round luxury EV, it sets a remarkably high benchmark.
There was a time when the idea of a two-and-a-half-tonne SUV delivering sports car performance would have seemed laughable. Yet here we are.
The BMW iX xDrive60 M Sport weighs in at around 2.5 tonnes, but thanks to its dual electric motors producing a combined 400 kW and 765 Nm of torque, it dispatches the sprint from zero to 100 km/h in just 4.6 seconds. There is no drama, no wheelspin and no hesitation. Just an immediate surge that pins you firmly into the seat.
Unlike many high-performance EVs that focus almost exclusively on headline acceleration figures, the xDrive60 doesn’t constantly encourage you to exploit its full potential. Instead, it delivers its performance with remarkable refinement, making rapid progress feel effortless rather than theatrical.
IT STILL FEELS LIKE A BMW
Perhaps the biggest compliment I can pay the iX in general, but the xDrive60 model specifically, is that it hasn’t forgotten its Bayerische Motoren Werke roots.
BMW has clearly spent considerable time ensuring that this SUV behaves as one of its products should. The adaptive two-axle air suspension, Integral Active Steering and chassis tuning work together to disguise the vehicle’s considerable weight remarkably well.
No, physics hasn’t been rewritten. Push hard enough into a tight sequence of bends and you’re reminded that this is still a large luxury SUV. But within realistic road speeds it remains composed, surprisingly agile and, dare I say, confidence-inspiring. Shocker.
The steering lacks some of the communication you’d expect from one of BMW’s M cars, but it is accurate, well-weighted and predictable. More importantly, the chassis always feels settled, even on our less-than-perfect roads.
Ride comfort is another standout. The suspension does an excellent job of ironing out broken surfaces while maintaining impressive body control. Long-distance touring is where the iX xDrive60 really comes into its own.
A CABIN DESIGNED FOR THE FUTURE
When the iX first arrived in 2021, its departure-from-the-norm exterior design was trumped only by what BMW had done with its interior. The minimalist cabin, expansive uncluttered dashboard and curved digital display that seamlessly integrates the instrument cluster and infotainment system into a single panel couldn’t have been further removed from the brand’s traditional approach.
The latest xDrive60 M Sport builds on that foundation. BMW’s latest Operating System 8.5 is quicker and more intuitive to use, while subtle updates to the trim, ambient lighting and M Sport detailing give the cabin an even more premium feel. Material quality remains exceptional throughout, with sustainable finishes and crystal-effect controls adding a welcome sense of occasion.
Space is generous both front and rear, while the flat floor enhances the feeling of openness. Road and wind noise are virtually absent, making the cabin one of the quietest you’ll experience in any production vehicle.
The optional Bowers & Wilkins Diamond Surround Sound system fitted to our test vehicle is equally impressive, transforming the cabin into something resembling a private concert hall, complete with speakers integrated into the front headrests.
LIVING WITH THE iX
BMW claims a WLTP driving range of up to 600 km for the South African-specification iX xDrive60, although real-world driving is more likely to deliver somewhere between 480 km and 550 km, depending on driving style, terrain and ambient temperatures.
For most owners, that’s comfortably enough for daily commuting and weekend getaways. DC charging at up to 195 kW means a 10%-80% recharge can be completed in around 35 minutes, provided you can access a suitably powerful charger. The battery also preconditions itself when navigating to a compatible fast charger, helping maximise charging performance when you arrive.
As with every premium EV in South Africa, public charging infrastructure remains a consideration for longer journeys. However, if you’re a potential iX buyer, chances are you already have a substantial solar system installed at your home or business, making daily charging both seamless and routine. In this case, living with the iX becomes surprisingly straightforward.
STYLING REMAINS SUBJECTIVE
There’s no getting around the fact that the iX’s styling divides opinion.
Its oversized kidney grille and futuristic proportions spearheaded BMW’s new design direction when the iX first debuted in 2021. The latest facelift subtly refines the formula with slimmer headlights, a redesigned illuminated kidney grille and more purposeful M Sport bumpers. It remains one of the most recognisable luxury SUVs on the road.
Personally, I think the styling has aged better than many predicted. It looks purposeful, modern and unlike anything else on the road. Whether you love it or hate it, nobody is likely to mistake it for another luxury SUV.
LAST WORD
The BMW iX xDrive60 M Sport represents one of the most complete electric luxury SUVs currently available. Yes, it’s expensive, and yes, its styling won’t appeal to everyone. But beneath the controversial exterior lies an exceptionally engineered vehicle with effortless performance, outstanding refinement and genuine long-distance capability.
Most importantly, it still feels like a BMW. It remains engaging to drive without sacrificing comfort, delivers accessible performance without ever becoming intimidating and demonstrates that electrification doesn’t have to dilute a brand’s character.
If you’re reading this, you’ve likely already embraced the idea of an electric future. The good news is you can realise that future without compromising on luxury or driving enjoyment. Factor in its impressive real-world range, sophisticated technology and exceptional refinement, and the iX xDrive60 M Sport makes an exceptionally compelling case.
Report by BERNIE HELLBERG JR | Images © BMW SOUTH AFRICA
