while BMW continues its electric journey, they are also taking the automotive community by surprise with a new flagship hybrid SUV, the XM. The only people mover will sit at the top of the brand pyramid offering hybrid V8 power. The XM is unlike any previous BMW, with unique and intimidating styling to go along with the unconventional powertrain. This is also the first time that “M” engineering has come to an electrified platform; it will also be the most powerful vehicle ever to carry the M brand. The XM has a lot to prove with just one trim level and the most expensive price tag ever for a BMW SUV. But with the level of luxury and technology that sets the pace, maybe so.
- Standard V8
- Hybrid efficiency
- Engine/Engine: 4.4 liter hybrid V8
- Power: 653
- Engine torque: 590 lb.-ft
- Transmission: AWD
- Transmission: 8-speed automatic
- Battery: 29.5 kWh
- MSRP: $159,995
- Class-leading interior
- Unique colors
- Wide variety of standard functions
- High MSRP
- Polarizing style
A hybrid V8 allows the BMW XM to deliver 653 hp
The 2023 BMW XM arrives in the US market with a unique powertrain that aims to give the best of both worlds. The standard engine is a 489-horsepower 4.4-liter V8 turbo, which is mounted in a 197-horsepower electric motor that lives between the engine and transmission. The engine features a transverse exhaust manifold and a unique oil separation process. The 8-speed automatic sends power to all four wheels for a total of 653 horsepower. Under the vehicle’s floors is a large 29.5 kWh battery. Combining a V8 with a battery the same size as some small, all-electric cars means excess weight. The BMW XM weighs 6,063 pounds. Although this substantial weight is similar to other ultra-luxury hybrid SUVs such as the Bentley Bentayga or the Aston Martin DBX.
Big performance from the most efficient V8 SUV ever built
As consumers should expect from an M-badged vehicle, the BMW XM is quick. The large SUV accelerates to 60 in just 4.1 seconds, an impressive number given the size of the SUV. But even more surprising is the efficiency of the vehicles. Depending on the driving mode, you can use the BMW XM as a pure V8, hybrid or as a full EV. Running properly in its hybrid configuration and starting with a full battery, the XM can average 156 MPGe. That means you can travel over 2,800 miles before you fill up the tank. You can also run the XM in pure EV mode with a range of 54 miles on battery only. That is, most activities in the city can be done on pure electric power, and if you run out, the V8 will gently kick in, charging the battery via the same electric motor/generator that sits between the engine and the transmission These figures make the BMW XM the most efficient car ever to sport 8 cylinders and make it a unique offering amongst the gas-guzzling competition.
Next-level cabin for the BMW XM
Looking inside the BMW XM, you’ll find technology and styling that will carry over to the rest of the BMW lineup for years to come. Although the materials, outside of a 7 series, are unlikely to be that large. Stepping inside, consumers will immediately notice the Merino leather, available in a multitude of different colors, including a unique deep green finish. Both front seats feature a backlit “M” logo on the headrest. The logo matches the ambient lighting that covers the entire cabin and along the panoramic sunroof frame. The three-spoke steering wheel is standard BMW with controls for medium and cruise. Part of the dual-screen curve screen doubles as an instrument cluster before seamlessly turning into the infotainment screen when your eyes look to the right. The system runs the latest iDrive 8 operating system, one of the best software in the industry. Wireless smartphone integration is standard. An optional 20-speaker Bowers & Wilkins surround sound system can further enhance the experience.
The diamond pattern continues in the shadow of the backlit panoramic sunroof which also matches the colors of the interior. Rear seat occupants get touch controls for the climate and matching lower lumbar cushions. Cargo capacity is a bit light on the XM, especially since a V8 eliminates a possible front trunk. Rear cargo capacity is 18.6 cubic feet with the seats up and 64.3 cubic feet with the seats down. Although in the extra space you lose in the cargo area, you gain in the back seat.
The next-generation BMW XM technology
Despite BMW’s history and future subscription approach to options, the XM comes with plenty of standard technology. This includes BMW’s ‘Driving Assistant’ suite which includes functions such as forward collision warning, lane departure warning, lane departure with steering assist, evasive assist and reading speed limit signs. While these are decent standard features, BMW will force you to buy the “Driving Assistant Pro” package to access the features that drivers now expect as standard. The “Pro” package includes adaptive cruise control with BMW’s lane keeping assistant. At this price point, it’s surprising that it’s an extra charge, as this is a feature that’s now standard on even many Toyota and Honda products. The lane keeping assistant is less advanced than those in Tesla or Mercedes-Benz products. Fortunately, the “Parking Assistant” package is standard equipment. This suite includes a 360-degree camera system, panoramic functionality for all cameras and self-parking capability.
Extending the interior technology features, the “Live Cockpit Pro” is also standard. The most notable feature is the large curved dashboard display that seamlessly integrates two separate displays behind a single glass panel. The iDrive eight system now features a platform thinking about touch instead of using the controller. Although the classic iDrive controller still lives below the top of the center console. The system also features a detailed head-up display that can illustrate speed, range, navigation and media. The in-house navigation system is better than ever, with a cloud-based system that is constantly updated. This same connectivity allows you to use your phone as a key. The XM can even wake up as you approach. Drivers can control their cars remotely from the app with fast response thanks to the cars on board 5G system.
The BMW XM has a flagship price with expensive options
The BMW XM showcases the latest in BMW design and technology. The XM’s price reflects its intimidating silhouette and is almost as intimidating. The XM comes to the US market with a base MSRP of $159,000. There’s only one trim level at launch, but a more expensive performance version is on the horizon. Notable options include premium interior material patterns for $2,500 and $3,400 for Bowers & Wilkins surround. Amazingly, buyers can choose from several exotic paint colors at no charge. Every XM comes with BMW’s 4-year, 50,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty. Unique EV components will be covered by a longer 8-year 80,000 mile warranty for added peace of mind. This warranty stacks up almost identically to competitors such as Porsche and Land Rover, but lags behind Bentley and Aston Martin. In general, most things come standard on the XM. While it’s by no means a bargain, it’s certainly a captivating alternative to other ultra-luxury SUVs and will likely be one of the last with a V8.
