BMW has expanded its Neue Klasse electric SUV family with the new iX4, a coupe-styled sibling to the iX3. Alongside it, BMW has also introduced M60 xDrive versions of both SUVs, bringing 604 bhp and 875 Nm of torque. The new flagship variants promise sports-car-rivalling acceleration, while the iX4 adds a sleeker alternative for buyers who prefer style over outright practicality.
Built alongside the iX3 at BMW’s plant in Debrecen, Hungary, the iX4 shares its sibling’s design up to the B-pillars. Beyond that, the roofline slopes down towards the rear, following the coupe-SUV formula seen on the X4 and X6. The result is a more rakish silhouette, although the styling comes at the cost of some practicality.
Inside, the iX4 carries over the iX3’s cabin, including a 17.9-inch central touchscreen and BMW’s Panoramic iDrive display that stretches along the base of the windscreen. The sloping roofline has a more tangible effect on luggage capacity, with the boot offering 490 litres — 30 litres less than the iX3. Fold the rear seats and capacity stands at 1600 litres, down by 150 litres. The iX4 range starts with the 40 xDrive, which uses two electric motors and an 87 kWh battery to produce 369 bhp and 520 Nm. It can sprint from 0 to 100 kph in 5.6 seconds and has a claimed WLTP range of 637 km. Charging is supported at up to 300 kW. The 50 xDrive gets a larger 113 kWh battery and produces 462 bhp and 645 Nm. It completes the 0 to 100 kph run in 4.9 seconds, has a claimed range of 827 km and supports charging at up to 400 kW.
The bigger news for enthusiasts is the arrival of the M60 xDrive versions. Both SUVs use the larger 113 kWh battery, paired with a more potent powertrain producing 604 bhp and 875 Nm. That’s enough to propel either model from 0 to 100 kph in just 3.9 seconds, with a top speed of 250 clicks. Interestingly, the more aerodynamic iX4 has a claimed range of 777 km, beating the iX3’s 740 km. The M60 models also get bespoke suspension settings, upgraded M Sport brakes, variable-ratio steering and an M differential to help put the rear motor’s power down effectively. Visual changes include M badges, aerodynamic mirror caps and a subtle roof spoiler. Inside, M Sport seats and a sportier steering wheel with a 12-o’clock marker add to the performance-focused feel, while dedicated M Sport and M Sport Plus modes complete the package.
Prices for the M60 variants have yet to be announced. More hardcore, fully fledged iX3 M and iX4 M versions are also expected to follow, potentially featuring a quad-motor powertrain producing more than 1000 bhp. For India, the iX3 could be the more practical proposition, while the iX4 would appeal to buyers willing to trade some boot space for a sportier silhouette. However, BMW has yet to announce an India launch for either model. If they do arrive, their positioning and pricing will be crucial in a market where premium electric SUVs are steadily gaining traction. The M60 versions, meanwhile, would offer serious performance appeal, but their high output and likely premium positioning would make them niche offerings rather than volume sellers.
