There’s no question that Tesla’s Elon Musk is a disruptive visionary, and it’s probably safe to add outspoken genius, too. If any single person is responsible for today’s sweeping move to electric vehicles, he’s the guy.
But did you really think that a company like BMW was going just to stand
there and let Tesla punch them in the face?
Oh, it didn’t really matter until now. After all, electric vehicles have been pretty much a niche product appealing mainly to greenies and trend-followers. But now that electric is becoming mainstream watch out!
So for starters, let’s see if an all-electric vehicle can be a legitimate “M”?
You betcha’.
How’re two motors punching out 610 HP sound? Use the standard launch
control and hit 60 in 3.6 seconds. Keep going, and you’ll top out at 155 MPH. That’s genuine “M” stuff.
And “Go” is just part of any M story. Poise and control are always part of the package, too. The iX M60 comes through here with load-leveling air
suspension, AWD, and 4-wheel steering. Under 60 MPH, your rear wheels turn slightly opposite to your fronts, making parking and general low-speed maneuvers quicker. Then over 60, your rears turn with the fronts for agile, controlled highway moves.
How about tech and “touch”? You’ve got a combined 27.2 inches of screen in the cockpit, plus a heads-up display. BMW’s iDrive integrates that big touchscreen with voice activation and motion control. Massaging seats are available as well.
Then there’s what BMW calls “shy tech.” This includes subtle features like flush door handles, speakers hidden under the acoustic fabric and radiant heat in unexpected places like your dash and door panels.
There are two different iX M’s available for ‘23. The 60 we tested start under $110K, and the 50 starts around $85K. They’re both built using
100% renewable energy with a bevy of green features and touches.
Both have an 8-year warranty on their batteries, and they both come with 24 months of complimentary fast charging with Electrify America, the largest fast-charging network in the country.
And speaking of charging, both iX M’s come with dual charging plugs. 240V charging will take you from zero to 100% in 12 hours! And both iX
M’s delivers a truly impressive range for high-performance vehicles 288 for the 60 and 324 for the 50. That’s enough range to get from LA to Las Vegas or to get me from Atlanta to the beach nonstop.
Again, Tesla has done an impressive job. They’ve been the undisputed king of Electric Avenue for over ten years. But times change, and vehicles like BMW’s ’23 iX M will make it very crowded at the top of the hill.
