BMW Top-Selling M Model Unleashes Even Greater Power

The BMW i4, already a standout electric vehicle, is getting an exciting upgrade for 2026. Shortly after a leak from the Dutch BMW consumer website revealed details about a more powerful M60 xDrive variant, BMW has officially confirmed the news. The new BMW i4 M60 now boasts just under 600 horsepower, putting its performance close to that of the M4 Competition. However, unlike the traditional M4’s aggressive exhaust roar from its four large tailpipes, the i4 M60 delivers this impressive power almost silently, thanks to its electric drivetrain.

The BMW i4 M model has now become the top-selling vehicle among all BMW M cars. And before you start debating whether it’s a “real” M or not — yes, we get it. But keep in mind that BMW counts all the M-lite models in its M lineup, including standout cars like the M340i. So, that’s just how the numbers add up.

It’s hardly surprising. The previous fastest i4 model, the i4 M50, already packed a serious punch with its full-fledged M-level output of 536 horsepower and 586 lb-ft of torque. It sprinted from 0 to 60 mph in under four seconds, and during our latest drive, we concluded that “the i4 M50 earns its M badge.” But since M stands for both Motorsport and More, BMW’s 2025 summer update brings even greater performance to the i4 lineup.

Every i4 Features a More Efficient Powertrain

All i4 models now come equipped with upgraded power electronics, including silicon carbide chips in the inverter, which boost efficiency and extend driving range. The i4 eDrive35’s range increases to 266 miles (WLTP cycle), while the i4 eDrive40 now reaches 317 miles — adding up to 14 extra miles without any changes to the battery.

The new i4 M60 xDrive, which takes over from the M50 xDrive, delivers more power across the board. With 593 horsepower—an increase of 57 horsepower over its predecessor—the M60 packs a serious punch. While torque remains steady at 586 lb-ft, the boost in horsepower trims several tenths off the 0-60 mph acceleration time.

Maximum Range Inches Up, Alongside Horsepower

Officially, the M60’s maximum range has increased, but the numbers vary depending on how you interpret them. BMW states the M60’s range falls between 269 and 342 miles. In comparison, the M50 had a higher minimum range at 290 miles but a lower maximum of 318 miles. This means if you push the M60’s extra horsepower, the battery will drain faster—which isn’t unexpected. Notably, the car still uses the same 81.1 kWh battery pack as last year.

If you purchased a new i4 M50 following last year’s light refresh, you might feel a bit left out. Although you didn’t get the boost in power, you did benefit from a redesigned grille and adaptive LED headlights. On top of that, the latest version of BMW’s iDrive system was included, offering improved technology and user experience.

Production of the refreshed BMW i4 is scheduled to begin in July 2025. While the M60 model hasn’t been officially confirmed for the U.S. market yet, it’s unlikely BMW will continue producing the older version for long, so an announcement should come soon. Expect a slight delay of a few months before the 2026 i4 arrives at U.S. dealerships after it rolls off the factory line.