The BMW M division is moving into a new era: the XM super crossover, which became the first “charged” Bavarian hybrid, is presented. The novelty differs from the usual “M” not only of a powerful gasoline-electric power plant: XM has non-standard design solutions and a unique naming of the top version. The BMW XM also became the first autonomous model of the M division for almost 45 years, because the 5.1-meter crossover does not and will not have “ordinary” analogs.
The production version of the BMW XM largely repeated last year’s prototype: there are many differences in the nuances, but the general concept has been preserved. Among the notable simplifications are the traditional door handles, by no means “hidden” headlights, and lanterns of a less sophisticated form. The size of the XM is comparable to the X7: the wheelbase of the crossovers is the same (3105 millimeters), but the super hybrid is four centimeters shorter, half a centimeter wider and five centimeters lower.
Continuity with the previous unique BMW M development — the M1 sports car of the late 1970s – is achieved due to laser—engraved logos on different sides of the rear wing. An unexpected design decision is a bet on golden elements. The upper edge of the glasses, the window sill line, the edging of the radiator grille, the elements of the diffuser, and the spokes of the optional 23-inch wheels are made contrasting.
The charging hatch of the BMW XM is located in the front left wing and is on display as if reminding of an unusual power plant. Under the hood is a proven 4.4—liter V8 (489 hp, 650 Nm), which works in conjunction with the 196-horsepower (280 Nm) electric motor and all-wheel drive system built into the 8-speed “automatic”. Peak output is 652 horsepower and 800 Nm, which allows the novelty to be called the most powerful serial model of the M division.
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Dynamic characteristics are by no means record-breaking: from a standstill to 100 kilometers per hour, the BMW XM accelerates in 4.3 seconds, and the maximum speed is 250 or 270 kilometers per hour (with the M Driver’s package). The unofficial flagship “M” turned out to be slower than the non—hybrid X5 M / X6 M with the Competition prefix, and this is not surprising, because the curb weight of the novelty is as much as 2750 kilograms. However, BMW did not hide that the XM will be the heaviest model in history.
BMW fans can be pleased with three things. Firstly, the hybrid XM is equipped with a battery with a capacity of 25.7 kilowatt-hours, which will allow you to drive up to 88 kilometers on the WLTP cycle without starting the internal combustion engine. Secondly, the fuel consumption in the mixed cycle of a fully charged crossover will not exceed 1.6 liters per 100 kilometers. Thirdly, the promised 745-horsepower top version of the Red Label with a torque under 1000 Nm is on the way — it should not only be heavy, but also fast.
Among other positive aspects, the ideal static weight distribution is 50:50 and has a very luxurious interior. The architecture is very similar to the updated X7: almost the same door cards, a similar multimedia system iDrive 8, identical front panel, and central tunnel. “M” stands out except for the fixed transmission joystick, decor, and finishing materials.
The demonstration car is decorated with coffee-colored leather and dark blue Nappa, not only contour lighting is responsible for the atmosphere in the cabin, but also a hundred LEDs in the “sculptural” ceiling. Interestingly, natural leather was chosen for XM, and not an artificial vegan substitute. An important nuance is a layout according to the 2 + 3 schemes: the third row is not provided in principle.
Assembly of the BMW XM will begin before the end of the year at the American factory of the brand. The basic crossover will cost 160 thousand dollars, and for the 745-strong version, 185 thousand dollars will be asked, and you will have to pay extra for the personalization of the interior, 23-inch wheels, and special decor. For comparison, the BMW X6 M costs 114 thousand dollars in the USA, and a commensurate three-row X7 M60i can be purchased for 103 thousand dollars.
Source: BMW