Future BMW X8 likely to have a plug-in hybrid powertrain

KUALA LUMPUR: The rumors of an upcoming ultra-luxurious and ultra-fast BMW X8 stretch back to when BMW had yet to showcase the new X7. The arrival of the model is still not confirmed, but the speculations of the high-performance X8 M continue to appear. The most recent one is from BMWBlog, which reports that Munich’s high-riding vehicle could have a PHEV named the M45e.

As per the blog, BMW X8 M45e would have a 3.0-litre inline-six engine with one or more electric motors and an 8-speed gearbox. The recently unveiled BMW 745e houses the same setup and kicks out a combined output of 394 PS and 600 Nm of torque. Considering the automaker’s continuous advancements in the context, it is likely that the upcoming X8 will deliver a bit more power and longer electric driving range.

Moreover, a range-topping X8 M variant might be on the automaker’s cards, which is expected to get a plug-in hybrid powertrain as well. The variant may house a setup combining a V8 engine with an electric motor churning out up to 750 PS of power and could have an all-wheel-drive system, similar to the one seen in M5.

Not only this, but there are several other expectations and rumors hovering all around the internet. Earlier it was reported that the new X8 would borrow the styling cues from X6 or X7, but now the latest reports suggest that it will have its own design language and could have its own platform.

Regarding the official words from BMW, it is expected that the automaker may announce its arrival in concept form sometime later this year. So, we cannot expect it to go on sale before late 2021 The new BMW X8 M is conceived as a competitor to the likes of Mercedes-AMG GLE 63, Audi RS8, and the Porsche Cayenne Turbo. 

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