2023 BMW XM G09 revealed
BMW has revealed the first electrified M car. The XM mates a turbocharged V8 petrolengine with an electric motor to produce 653bhp – prices start at £144,980.
It's here. BMW has officially revealed the XM – the first electrified performance car from BMW M. Powered by a new plug-in hybrid system delivering 653hp and 590lb ft of torque, the Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV) – as BMW insists on calling its SUVs – fuses a new turbocharged V8 engine with an electric motor with an eight-speed M Steptronic transmission ZF 8HP30. Transmitted to the road via an M xDrive all-wheel-drive system, the setup is good for a driving range of 51-55-miles purely on electric.
The high-revving 4.4-litre V8 engine features a reinforced crankshaft, a turbo mounted close to the exhaust manifold with an electrically controlled blow-off valve, a new vane-style oil pump and a low weight plastic oil sump. An optimised oil separation process with variable impactor also enhances the engine’s emissions performance. Peak torque is generated by the combustion engine alone, available from 1,600-5,000rpm, with a maximum output of 489hp at 5,400rpm, making the internal combustion engine the largest contributor to the total output we've already mentioned. The electric motor contributes up to 197hp to the maximum output, while its 206lb ft combines with the combustion engine’s to achieve the combined figure. All this results in the XM accelerating from 0 to 62mph in 4.3-seconds, the top speed is electronically limited to 155mph but rises to 168mph if the optional M Driver’s Package is specified. Average fuel consumption is up to 188.3mpg in the WLTP test cycle, combined electric power consumption is 28.9kWh (per 62 miles) with CO2 emissions as low as 33g/km. The top speed in pure-electric mode is 87mph.
When it comes to charging, the system enables AC charging at up to 7.4kW, replenishing the battery from zero to 100% in 4.25-hours. It also acts as a voltage transformer to supply the 12V electrical system.
No M car would be complete without a decent chassis. Here the M Sport differential brings variable distribution of torque between the left and right rear wheels. The M xDrive system and M Sport differential are linked with DSC to ensure they work together as the situation demands. The XM has a model-specific rear axle differential tuned to the high torque of its drive system.
At the same time, a double-wishbone front axle affords high levels of rigidity, the use of aluminium brings about a reduction in unsprung mass. A second level of control arms for wheel guidance means the dampers are almost completely isolated from lateral forces – improving response. There's a five-link rear axle ensuring precision and poise, while specially configured electronically controlled dampers, active roll stabilisation and active steering all serve to deliver driving pleasure.
We'd already been treated to a glimpse of the XM's bold exterior design, however, now freed from any disguise, the full extent of its visually striking look is obvious – it won't be to everyone's tastes. Showcasing the ‘M Lounge’ concept, plus the very latest technology and connectivity advancements from BMW, the XM underlines the future of BMW M. At 5.1-metres in length and with a wheelbase measuring 31-metres, there's no shying away from the fact that this is a big vehicle. In fact, at a touch over two-metres in width, the XM is wider than any other model in the BMW range. BMW says that the styling makes reference to the iconic M1 in places, which might be a bit of a stretch, but there's no denying this car's presence. BMW will make over 50 Individual special paint finishes available.
Inside comes the exclusive M Lounge for rear seat occupants. Part of this sees the XM offering a rear seat bench with two outer spots and a full-size space for a third passenger in the centre. Luxury is key back here, fitting nicely with the comfort and functionality of the rest of the cabin. BMW IconicSounds Electric adds what BMW calls 'an unmistakable range of sounds', the car’s soundtrack was developed as part of a collaboration between BMW and film score composer, Hans Zimmer.
Production of the XM will begin at BMW Group Plant Spartanburg in South Carolina, USA in December, with the worldwide market launch getting underway in spring 2023. Prices in the UK start from £144,980.
748hp XM Label Red
Next year an even more powerful XM variant will be added to the line-up. The XM Label Red will boast 748hp and a staggering 1,000Nm of torque (737lb ft), making it the most powerful road-legal series-produced car in BMW M history. Powered by a 585hp version of the same turbocharged V8 engine, the new model will sustain torque all the way from 1,800 to 5,400rpm, with its maximum output generated at 5,800rpm. Pricing is yet to be announced.