This is the new BMW XM, the first vehicle with an electrified propulsion system from BMW M

The speculation is over. After several months in which, as is usual in these cases, we have seen patent leaks and official images showing the new model under thick camouflage, up to the announcement of its presentation, BMW M has finally unveiled what becomes its first electrified high-performance model: the BMW XM.

The BMW XM arrives in grand style in a very special year, marking the 50th anniversary of BMW M. It is also the first independent model from BMW M since the legendary BMW M1 was created. The major novelty of this new model is that it is also the first electrified model in BMW’s performance division, housing a hybrid system under its bonnet.

M Hybrid propulsion system

As the main novelty, we will begin by detailing the hybrid propulsion system that future owners of the BMW XM will find under its bonnet. This system, called M Hybrid, consists of a petrol 4,400 cc V8 with M TwinPower Turbo technology, featuring a cross-flow exhaust manifold and an optimised oil separation process. This engine delivers 489 CV and 650 Nm of torque, combined with an electric motor integrated into the 8-speed M Steptronic gearbox producing 197 CV and 280 Nm of torque. This achieves a combined system output of a considerable 653 CV, sent primarily to the rear axle despite featuring M xDrive intelligent all-wheel drive.

All this power will be put to good use thanks to the chassis, which uses specific settings for this model. The result is a combination that will be pleasant both for sporty driving, as expected from a good BMW M, and for comfort in everyday use and long journeys. Nevertheless, the driver can make the adjustments needed to adapt it to their driving style and the roads they travel, thanks to the M Setup menu.

Thanks to this hybrid unit, the BMW XM can reach 100 km/h in 4.3 seconds. This acceleration is accompanied by the soundtrack provided by its sporty exhaust system, with electronically controlled valves and hexagonal-shaped twin exhaust outlets. The interior also gets a sporty atmosphere that accompanies the electric motor, thanks to the partnership between BMW IconicSounds Electric and composer Hans Zimmer, when driving in fully electric mode. When using Sport or Sport Plus modes while the system operates in Hybrid mode, a reinforcement sound boosts the electric assistance supplied to the combustion engine.

Through the M Hybrid selector we can choose the three driving modes, which include Electric mode. This allows driving in fully electric mode thanks to the 25.7 kWh lithium-ion battery located in the underbody of the BMW XM. However, this is only possible as long as we do not exceed 140 km/h, and with a range of between 82 and 88 kilometres according to the WLTP test cycle. Once discharged, this battery can recover its energy, allowing AC charging of up to 7.4 kW.

But here’s something to pay attention to: from autumn 2023, BMW will expand the XM range with the Label Red version, which will be marketed as the most powerful BMW M ever built. To achieve this, the company will use a combustion engine producing 585 CV and 750 Nm of torque, together with an electric motor of 197 CV and 280 Nm of torque, reaching a tremendous output of 748 CV alongside an incredible torque of 1,000 Nm.

Elegant and sporty exterior in equal measure

The design features of the BMW XM are easily recognisable when compared with other sporty SUVs from the brand, combining strong lines that convey robustness and presence with a elongated profile and the typical BMW M traits that are essential, as well as distinctive features that make the BMW XM instantly identifiable.

The front end features a reinterpretation of the design used on BMW’s luxury models, including headlights split into two independent sections, accompanied by the now-familiar enormous kidney grille, which also has an illuminated golden outline. All of this is complemented by large air intakes for cooling. On the side, the 21-inch alloy wheels will draw attention; 23-inch wheels are available as an option. The gold-coloured trim also catches the eye, recalling the black stripe that ran along the body of the BMW M1. At the rear, the BMW logos engraved on the rear window pay tribute to the past, as does the slatted structure of the rear lights.

Luxurious, driver-focused interior

The interior of the BMW XM stands out for its focus on luxury and comfort, and is also driver-oriented. This is achieved thanks to the BMW Live Cockpit Professional, fitted as standard, which includes a specific M version. This instrument panel consists of a 12.3-inch information display and a 14.9-inch central information display, which is equipped with iDrive and can be operated by touch or gesture. Even so, the typical iDrive controller, multifunction steering wheel buttons and standard Head-Up Display are also available to increase the information provided to the driver.

Once seated, you will also notice the luxury and high-quality materials used, such as the four different upholstery options to personalise the interior. This is particularly noticeable in the rear seats thanks to the exclusive M Lounge package, which includes, among other things, seats with heated backrests that extend towards the sides of the rear compartment and specially designed cushions. Add to this the unique ceiling trim with 100 LED units, ambient lighting, a four-zone automatic climate control or the Harman Kardon surround sound system, among many others, not forgetting the long list of options.

As standard, the BMW XM also features a wide range of driving assistance systems included in the various available packages, such as Driving Assistant, which includes front collision warning, lane departure warning with steering assistance, evasion assistant, attention assistant and speed limit information; the parking assistant with extended functions; or the reversing assistant, which includes Park View, Panorama View and 3D View. Optionally, these functions can be expanded with other packages such as Driving Assistant Professional.

BMW has already confirmed that the new XM will be built at its Spartanburg plant in the United States starting this coming December, while arrival at dealerships is planned for the first quarter of 2023.