The 2023 BMW iX may wear a front fascia that looks like it was designed using a cyborg beaver from some futuristic fantasy video game as a reference, but already the luxury EV crossover is garnering plenty of attention for all it gets right outside of its polarizing looks.

The iX offers a spacious cabin with all the expected luxury that comes with a BMW badge, it’s surprisingly practical, offers quick charging rates and impressive range, delivers over 500 horsepower as standard and is rich with cutting-edge tech to make its high starting price worth the money. The iX ticks just about all the boxes for its segment, and prospective buyers are given two trim choices, the base xDrive50 and the more powerful and luxe M60. So, which is best?

The 2023 BMW iX M60 is notably more powerful than the xDrive50

The iX lineup expands for 2023 with the addition of the M60 trim, giving buyers a choice of trims in the model’s second year of production. Both models share much of the same specs, but the M60 offers a notable uptick in power for the sacrifice of slightly less driving range and a more robust list of luxury features for those willing to make a large step up in price.

Both iX models are powered by dual electric motors with all-wheel drive and a one-speed direct drive transmission with varying degrees of power and torque. The xDrive50 puts out 516 horsepower and 564 pound-feet of torque, which will zip the EV from 0-60 mph in 4.4 seconds and on to a top speed of 124 mph, according to BMW.

The M60 uses the same front motor but a more robust rear unit to up the overall power to a massive 610 horsepower and up to 811 pound-feet of torque with its Launch Control driving mode. The M60 will hustle from 0-60 mph in 3.6 seconds and tops out at 130 mph.

The M60’s performance is also enhanced by its standard four-wheel steering and adaptive air suspension, which lowers and raises the body as needed for optimal traction and can be adjusted manually, allowing the M60 to capitalize on its added 94 horsepower. Both features are optional in the xDrive50.

As expected, the added power of the M60 cuts down on driving range, but both models still offer impressive mileage. The xDrive50 is rated for up 324 miles on a single charge with the M60 topping out at 288 miles in models with 21-inch wheels and 274 miles for those wearing available 22-inch wheels.

The iX M60 includes a bevy of additional features for a steep price

The M60 includes a mass of standard features only offered as options for the xDrive50. Some highlights of the M60 include massaging front seats, a Wi-Fi hotspot, 30-speaker premium sound system, an interior camera, and a host of other upgrades.

Meanwhile, the xDrive50 is generously equipped with standard features like a panoramic sunroof, power liftgate, digital instrument cluster, 14.9-inch touchscreen, synthetic leather seats, wireless charging, and four-zone climate control.

Of course, the M60’s extra power and amenities don’t come without a step up in price, and in the case of the Beemer, it’s a significant leap. Edmunds tells us the 2023 xDrive50 starts at $85,095 while the M60 commands $109,895, an increase of $24,800.

Which is better: the iX xDrive50 or M60?

Ultimately, the decision between the xDrive50 and M60 depends on personal preference. The xDrive50 is well equipped as standard, and with over 500 horsepower on tap, it’s hardly a slouch. It also offers more mileage per charge and re-juices its batteries just as quickly.

Alternatively, those who value a host of more premium features and the ultimate performance from their “ultimate driving machine” should certainly consider spending the added dough for the M60. The price increase is steep, but so is the rise in luxe amenities and athleticism.