BMW M introduces the all-new hybrid super-SUV, the XM

KUALA LUMPUR: BMW Motorsport division has finally unveiled its all-new super-SUV, the XM. It is the first standalone product of the BMW M since the M1 supercar of the 1970s, which is not spun off from a regular BMW car. What makes it more special is that it’s the first hybrid ever to wear the M performance badge and it’s the most powerful ever.

Let’s know this hybrid super SUV in detail.

The 2023 BMW XM is powered by a 4.4-litre V8 twin-turbocharged plug-in hybrid powertrain incorporating an electric motor and a 25.7-kWh battery pack. The engine churns out a maximum power output of 490 PS and a peak torque of 650 Nm, while the motor contributes 197 PS and 280 Nm. Collectively, the setup makes 653 PS and 800 Nm, making it a super SUV competing with the likes of the Lamborghini Urus and Aston Martin DBX.

Also read: 2023 Lamborghini Urus Performante revealed; What makes it different from the standard Urus?

Shifting duties are managed by an eight-speed automatic transmission, which enables the SUV to hit the century sprint in just 4.3 seconds. The top speed is rated at 270 kmph. 

According to BMW, this V8 mill is a newly developed drivetrain housing a cross-bank exhaust manifold and an “optimised” oil separation process. Adding to the performance are M xDrive all-wheel-drive system, an electronic locking rear differential, new fast-reacting traction control tech, 48-volt active anti-roll stabilisation system, Adaptive suspension, rear-wheel steering and 23-inch wheels mated to high-performance brake discs.

Seeking more power? Wait for the SUV’s flagship trim “Label Red” model, which is set to be revealed next year with 745 PS and 1000 Nm output levels. These numbers will make the BMW XM the most powerful road-legal vehicle in BMW M’s history.

In terms of design, the new BMW XM looks similar to the Concept XM model unveiled last year. It boasts the largest BMW's signature kidney grilles illuminated with LED bars along with a split headlight setup. While the body creases, wide rear pillar, and stacked exhaust tips are among the carried over styling cues, front air intakes, door handles, and LED tail lights appear different from the concept. Dimensionally, the SUV measures 5110 mm in length, 2005 mm in width, 1755 mm in height, and rides on a 3105 mm long wheelbase.

Stealing attention inside the 2023 BMW XM are a 12.3-inch digital instrument display, head-up display, a 14.9-inch infotainment unit mated to iDrive 8 software and satellite navigation, multi contour front seats, four-zone climate control and a Harman Kardon surround sound system.

Production & launch timeline

The 2023 BMW XM production will commence in December 2022 at the brand’s South Carolina plant, followed by the launch in the US, China and the Middle East first.

Also read: Largest BMW M gathering held in Malaysia with 120 BMW M cars