Reports of a possible X8 stretch back to when BMW had yet to uncover the X7. Now, another rumor speaks about three possible variants of Munich’s high-riding vehicle, and one of them could be a PHEV named the M45e.
According to BMWBlog, the M Performance plug-in hybrid model is in the pipeline, likely powered by the 3.0-liter straight-six gasoline engine and an electric motor. In the new X5 xDrive45e, this powertrain kicks out a combined 388 HP (394 PS / 290 kW) and 443 lb-ft (600 Nm) lb-ft of torque.
Review: New BMW X7 And Mercedes G-Class Battle It Out On The Road
The plug-in hybrid version of the premium mid-size SUV needs 5.6 seconds to go from rest to 62 mph (100 km/h) and tops out at 146 mph (235 km/h). When it runs solely on electricity, it can hit a top speed of up to 84 mph (135 mph), and has 42-54 miles (67-87 km) range in the WTLP cycle with the 24 kWh battery fully charged. The X8 M45e might get more power and have a higher zero-emission range.
An X8 M range-topping variant has already been talked about a lot, and it appears it’s still on the cards. Believed to arrive in 2022, it might get a plug-in hybrid powertrain as well, combining a V8 with an electric motor that should churn out up to 750 HP and a rear-biased all-wheel drive system, similar to the one in the M5.
Contrary to previous reports, the X8 will allegedly not look like a bigger X6, nor borrow styling cues from the X7 either, but get its own design identity instead.
Note: BMW X7 pictured
