As its 50th anniversary celebrations continue, BMW brings us its first ever high performance car with electric drive system. A plug in hybrid system comprising a V8 petrol engine and an exceptionally powerful electric motor. In BMW’s words, The exterior design of the BMW XM is a statement of exclusivity, presence and performance.
The newly developed M HYBRID drive system, an extravagant design and the progressive luxury ambience inside the BMW XM come together to create a fresh interpretation of the Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV) concept for the high performance segment that will open up that inimitable M feeling to new target groups and markets.
Distinctive design as expression of presence and performance
Some may argue that the XM’s external design is a bit controversial. It’s bulbous and some say it’s not in line with the sleek, wedge like design of previous M cars. However, it’s hard to deny that the XM has a distinct futuristic look. With sharp angles and larger than life design elements, it’s a car that demands attention on the road. The XM is 5.11 meters long, making it taller and larger than most other vehicles. The gold accents provide a striking contrast against its sheet metal, creating a bold and eye catching appearance.
Driver focused cockpit with a luxurious M Lounge in the rear
The true magic of the XM is revealed when you step inside. The cockpit and front seats are designed entirely around an active driving experience. The cabin is a celebration of extravagance, with supple Nappa leather upholstery, carbon fiber accents, and alcantara details. The dashboard is adorned with geometric patterns that resemble those found in Middle Eastern palaces. The headliner is textured with a 3D effect, creating a mesmerizing display of light when illuminated by the LED lights. The XM also includes a pair of configurable M switches on the steering wheel, allowing you to personalize various vehicle settings with a simple flick of a switch. The panoramic glass screen on the dashboard combines a 12.3 inch BMW Curved Display with a 14.9 inch control display, providing a high definition view of the car’s status and navigation.
The back of the BMW XM offers ample space for passengers, with plenty of headroom and legroom. The seats are covered in luxurious Nappa leather, making long journeys incredibly comfortable. Entertainment options are plentiful, with dual USB Type-C charging ports and quick connectors for mounting tablets on the back of the front seats. Cargo space is not a concern either, as the XM offers 527 liters of storage, which can be expanded to 1,820 liters with the seats folded down.
A bespoke driving experience at the touch of a button
Now, let’s talk about the driving experience. The BMW XM is powered by an electric powertrain combined with a twin turbo V8 engine. This combination gives an impressive 653 hp and 800 Nm of torque. Power is never an issue with a 0 to 100 km/h in just 4.3 seconds, nearly as fast as a Porsche 911 Carrera.
The gearshifts are lightning quick, you can adjust the speed of the shifts to suit your preference.
The XM isn’t just about straight line speed, it also excels in the corners. Thanks to features like adaptive air suspension and all wheel steering, the XM feels nimble and stable, even when faced with road undulations. The steering is well weighted and direct, allowing for confident driving at high speeds. However, the XM’s large dimensions can make driving on narrow streets a bit challenging, and blind spots may be an issue, especially with the 23-inch wheels.
Despite its powerful performance, the XM also has priority for the environment. It can run in EV mode for up to 85 km. The battery can be recharged through brake regeneration in eControl mode. However, the battery range may not be sufficient for most daily driving, so the V8 motor will still be relied upon for long journeys.
The BMW “IconicSounds” Electric have been developed in collaboration between BMW and composer Hans Zimmer to create a suitable backing track for the electric motor’s power delivery. The M-specific electric drive sound provides authentic feedback to every movement of the accelerator pedal when driving in EV mode. And if the Sport or Sport Plus setting is selected in HYBRID mode, a boost sound will be heard.
The BMW XM is a true celebration of excess and luxury
In Conclusion, while its exterior design may be divisive, there’s no denying its futuristic and attention grabbing appearance. The interior is a blend of opulence and innovation, with high quality materials and advanced technology. When it comes to performance, the XM is a force to be reckoned with, offering blistering acceleration and impressive handling. Whether it’s the best performance luxury SUV on the market is subjective, but there’s no doubt that the XM offers a truly bespoke and extravagant driving experience.
The BMW XM a Statement of Exclusivity.