This year has been a major one for BMW’s ‘M’ division, marking an impressive 50 years of its performance arm.
Throughout 2022 there have been a number of new models and celebrations, including reveals of the eagerly-awaited M3 Touring, the M4 CSL and now BMW is taking it a step further with the XM – its first bespoke ‘M’ model since the original M1. Here’s what you need to know about it…
It’s BMW’s first hybrid ‘M’ model
BMW is well-known for its electric and plug-in hybrid cars these days, but until now the firm’s M division has not joined in on the action. That changes with the XM, which ushers in a new high-performance electrified drive system, and one that’s likely to be rolled out in a number of future BMW M models.
The setup comprises a turbocharged 4.4-litre V8 engine and electric motor, which can power the XM independently in ‘Electric’ mode or work with the engine for maximum performance.
It's the most powerful BMW M model to date – and an even hotter model is due in the future
Speaking of performance, there is most certainly plenty on offer, with the combination of petrol and electricity serving up a monstrous 645bhp and 800Nm of torque. That’s the most power of any BMW production car to date, and means the XM can accelerate from 0-60mph in just 4.1 seconds, and hit a top speed of 168mph, where permitted.
But the XM won’t end there as an even more powerful version is due. Dubbed the ‘Label Red’, it’s due in Autumn 2023 and promises up to 748bhp and an almost ridiculous 1,000Nm of torque thanks to its more powerful engine.
Impressive efficiency, if the range is utilised
Though you might think the XM is all about performance, the inclusion of the hybrid system also means it can be impressively efficient, just as long as the ‘hybrid’ part is utilised correctly.
Thanks to a large 25.7kWh battery, BMW says the XM can travel for up to 55 miles on electricity, giving scope for some impressively low running costs. BMW quotes a fuel economy figure of 188.3mpg and CO2 emissions of just 33g/km.
Packed with performance innovations
But there’s more to the XM than just its powertrain, with BMW making a host of changes to ensure it still feels and drives like a true ‘M’ car. There’s an M Sport differential that can split torque between the rear wheels to give the model a planted feel on the road, along with an electrical anti-roll system that promises to offer improved agility and handling precision.
The XM is also the first M model that features rear-wheel steering to improve manoeuvrability around town and when parking and stability when up to speed.
‘Lounge’ like levels of interior space
The XM isn’t quite as long as the current BMW SUV flagship – the X7 – but it will hold the title as the German firm’s widest car to date, and it offers a particularly bold design.
But the other advantage of its sheer size is the level of interior space on offer. In fact, BMW says the rear seats offer an ‘exclusive M Lounge luxury’, with three full-size seats in the back. The sides of the backrests of the seats also extend into the door trim panels, meaning passengers in the outermost rear seats can face each other.
Quilted Alcantara seats are included, along with particularly strong sun protection glazing for the rear windows, which permits just five per cent of visible light transmission, helping to ensure nobody can see in, while also keeping ambient sound out of the cabin.
The BMW XM is available to order now, with prices starting from £144,980.
