When the mid-size iX first arrived in 2022, it brought impressive luxury and tech but struggled to make a significant splash in the crowded EV SUV segment. But BMW is taking its electric SUV lineup to the next level with the 2026 iX M70, set to arrive in the first half of 2025, delivering 650 horsepower, introducing a rare Sport Plus Mode with traction control off, improving electric range, and shedding some weight for good measure.
We hit the road with the camo-clad SUV prototype and its project lead from Germany, Rainer Thoma (pictured below), to experience how this high-performance family hauler balances luxury, efficiency, and driving dynamics. One thing is clear: this is a significant leap from the outgoing iX M60, and Rainer's team designed it to be taken more seriously by those who prioritize performance.
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First, More On The Entry And Mid-Range Models: 2026 BMW iX xDrive45 And iX xDrive60
All three 2026 BMW iX models feature electric all-wheel drive, each with notable performance upgrades. Electric range improves by 10 percent, charging current is optimized for faster performance, and the charger connection includes a new release button. Rainer adds, "Charging in lower temperatures has been drastically improved with the heat pump."
Overall, the lineup is concise, with each model offering something distinct -- all showcasing significant upgrades from their predecessors and a worthy rival to the popular Tesla Model X. The new entry-level iX xDrive45 surpasses 400 horsepower, the iX xDrive60 features improved charging rates, and the new M-badged iX M70 we explore here delivers a massive 650 horsepower.
2026 BMW iX xDrive45: New Entry Model for the U.S.
The iX xDrive45 is a new U.S. entry, replacing the outgoing iX xDrive40 produced from 2021 to 2024. It sees the greatest power increase in the lineup, gaining 80 horsepower to deliver an impressive 402 horsepower. The DC charging power is rated at 175 kW, providing an estimated 300 miles of range, according to BMW's preliminary tests.
These are significant improvements. The outgoing iX xDrive40 supports up to 150 kW DC fast charging with a WLTP range between 231 and 264 miles. Rainer's team clearly put in the work to deliver notable charging and range enhancements for 2025.
New M Sport Package and M Sport Professional Package a BMW iX first
For the first time, you get these two 2026 iX models with the M Sport Package, adding a long list of goods -- from better seats with improved lateral support and M leather steering wheel, to the cosmetics upgrades like a two-tone instrument panel, more black gloss touches, and M logos throughout. The M Sport Professional Package includes what BMW calls M Shadow Line: a series of sportier tweaks to the SUV's lighting tech and styling, both front and rear.
2026 BMW iX xDrive60: Replaces iX xDrive50
The mid-range iX xDrive60 dials up the critical performance features from the iX xDrive45. Most notably, it offers a massive power jump, improved charging rates, and an extended range. It produces 536 horsepower (a 20-horsepower increase over the outgoing iX xDrive50 we also reviewed), with DC charging power rated at 195 kW, allowing for faster charging than the lower iX model. Electric range also improves, offering an estimated 330 miles based on preliminary testing.
This is all achieved, Rainer explains, thanks to his team's optimized efficiency measures and the SUV's advanced battery technology. It represents a significant leap forward from the outgoing iX.
BMW has not yet provided torque figures or 2026 pricing. For context, the 2024 iX xDrive50 delivered 564 lb-ft of torque and started at around $87,100. Expect these figures to increase when the iX xDrive60 launches next year. Official specifications and MSRP are expected in Spring 2025.
2026 iX xDrive45
2026 iX xDrive60
Power
402 horsepower
536 horsepower
Range
300 miles
330 miles
DC Charging Power
175 kW
195 kW
Charging Speed
Improved, supports fast charging
Faster than xDrive45, higher capacity
Notable Features
Replaces iX xDrive40, significant range and power upgrade
Replaces iX xDrive50, optimized battery and efficiency
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2026 BMW iX M70: Built For Performance
Now, the range-topping iX M70. While we can't talk about some of the exclusive stying and interior specifics that make this 650 horsepower tick and truly separates it apart from the iX xDrive45 and iX xDrive60, we can share how it performs.
Though it's safe to share, as with most BMW M models, the iX M70 will come with all the blacked-out and glossy M bits including exterior mirror caps. This variant also receives a slightly different kidney grill up front. Also, don't expect the optional M Sport Package on the two lower trims to look the same as on the M70 -- BMW made sure this mid-size luxury rocket sets itself apart with more distinctive looks.
On the Road
Rainer and I took this prototype for a drive on the busy freeways and twisty rural South Carolina roads just outside BMW's Spartanburg plant. Along the way, sharing insights about it's improved handling. He also stressed how much more efficient the next-generation iX is, taking full advantage of more energy-efficient content -- from tires and wheel bearings to lights. And this M version is no different.
Sure, more power is always welcomed. But with the addition of the new Sport Plus Mode, which deactivates Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), the M70 solidifies its place as a true high-performance SUV.
I never drove the outgoing iX SUV nor iX M60, so I can't comment on how this new model compares. But based on everything Rainer explained, the redesigned 2026 iX is a completely new machine in how it handles and performs. The new M70 will also sheds some weight, Rainer tells me -- I'm not sure how much but reports suggest it to be around 33 pounds lighter than the M60.
2025 iX M60
2026 iX M70
Power
610 horsepower
650 horsepower
Torque
749 pound feet
TBA
DC Fast Charging
195 kW
195 kW
Curb Weight
5,769 pounds
TBA
Range
288 miles
310 miles
The new hydraulic rear axle bearing in the 2026 BMW iX M70 improves ride comfort by reducing vibrations and harshness from the road. It also enhances handling precision, helping the rear axle stay more responsive and stable, particularly on windy roads we experienced, while maintaining a smoother, more composed ride overall. All of this was evident during our 45 minute drive.
Rainer pointed out that the iX M70's new weight and friction-optimized wheel bearings, along with tires designed for reduced rolling resistance, really boost its efficiency. I could feel just how smoothly it drove, with less energy loss. It not only extends the range but also maintains that sharp performance without sacrificing comfort.
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New for 2026: Sport Plus Mode and Deactivated DSC
Sure, more power is always welcomed. But with the addition of the new Sport Plus Mode, which deactivates Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), the M70 solidifies its place as a true high-performance SUV. The M60 offered a Sport Mode which improved the EV's throttle response and suspension settings -- all good things, especially with Launch Control.
The 2026 iX M70 builds on this by simply providing more driver control (and more fun). In Sport Plus with the DSC off, there's more wheel slip, enhanced responsiveness, and just a more visceral connection with the SUV. Frankly, this mode isn't something most M70 owners will ever use or even need, where traction control and stability makes most sense for everyday drivers (and Sport Mode is more than enough on the open roads). But it shows Rainer and his team's commitment to upping the ante as a true luxury sports vehicle, taking on rivals like the Tesla Model X, Mercedes-Benz EQE, and Audi Q8 e-Tron. And if this thing hits the local track on the weekends, you're absolutely covered with Sport Plus at your fingertips.