Ah, fresh meat for the automotive carnivores. The 2023 BMW XM has finally arrived in the United States, and to celebrate its arrival, the German automaker has dropped a massive photo gallery of the plug-in hybrid SUV, giving us a comprehensive look at their new flagship model.
We have it in Marina Bay Blue Metallic, we have it in Black Sapphire Metallic and plain vanilla Mineral White Metallic. But wait, there’s more; we have the interiors in Silverstone (whitish) with Vintage Coffee, Sahkir Orange and the most serious of all, full Black leather with contrasting silver stitching. Did we mention the throw pillows for the three-seat rear bench? What more could you ask to kick off your weekend?
BMW XM Black Sapphire Metallic
More: We Get Up Close To The 2023 BMW XM Plug-In Hybrid SUV
BMW M’s first standalone model in four decades since the iconic M1 from the late 1970s and simultaneously its first-ever plug-in hybrid, the XM has been consistently splitting opinions like a stubborn piece of cheese since its reveal last September. Some have changed their thoughts on the so-called Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV), while others remain steadfast in theirs, but now that BMW has dropped this gallery, we’ll let you be the judge.
Regardless of your opinions on the exterior design, the interior of the XM is undoubtedly luxurious, and actually looks like quite a nice place to be. For the price they’re charging, which starts at $159,995 climbing up to nearly $170,000 with all options ticked, BMW wanted to fit this SUV with an opulent cabin to match, and we think they succeeded. The smooth, swooping design is befitting of a six-figure SUV like the XM, even if the dash design is a bit similar to other BMW models. Even the rear passengers are treated to quilted leather galore and even their own little pillows, ensuring that those sitting in the back don’t feel like an afterthought.
In terms of performance, the base XM offers a thrilling 644 hp (653 PS / 480 kW) and 590 lb-ft (800 Nm) of torque, which should help offset its 6,062 lb (2,995 kg) curb weight. This power comes courtesy of a 4.4-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine, which works in tandem with a single electric motor to drive all four wheels.
Aided by a sophisticated launch control system and the grip of M xDrive, the SUV goes from 0 to 60 mph (96 km/h) in 4.1 seconds, while top speed is electronically limited to 155 mph (250 km/h), or a less restricted 168 mph (270 km/h) if the optional M Driver’s Package is specified. The top speed in pure electric mode is 87 mph (140 km/h), while to charge the 25.7-kWh battery pack that offers up to 30 miles (under 50 km) of emissions-free range, you’ll need 3.25 hours.
BMW XM Mineral White Metallic
Step up to the range-topping XM Label Red that will be released later on with a starting price of over $185,000, and this same powertrain’s output increases to an even more impressive 738 hp (748 PS / 550 kW) and 735 lb-ft (997 Nm) of torque. This should help shave off a few tenths of the second in acceleration times.
And there you have it. The BMW XM, a hybrid SUV that’s generating as much buzz as it is polarizing. Will it be a hit or a miss for BMW? Only time, and the discerning tastes of consumers, will tell.
BMW XM Marina Bay Blue Metallic
