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BMW XM: An ultimate SUV with bullish intentions
As much as the BMW M 50th anniversary celebrations continue, the folks at the Munich-based automaker have finally ripped the covers off their new XM behemoth, which looks nothing like any BMW M model we have seen before.
The new BMW XM is the first standalone M model since the original M1 of the olden days and it sits above the already potent Competition models of the X5 and X6 as well as the X7 M60i. The most interesting feature here is the M hybrid powertrain.
It wields a high-revving 4.4-litre V8 engine that pumps out a total of 360 kW and 650 Nm and an electric motor with up to 145 kW and 280 Nm. The overall output is rated at 480 kW and 800 Nm of torque. Shifting through an 8-speed M Steptronic gearbox, the BMW XM requires 4.3 seconds to complete the 0-100 km/h sprint before maxing out at 250 km/h or 270 km/h with the M Driver's Package.
On battery power alone, the XM can travel up to 88 km before running out of power, thanks to the 25.7 kWh battery pack mounted on its underbody with an AC charging capability of up to 7.4 kW.
If you think the standard XM isn't enough for you, BMW promises a more potent variant that carries the XM Label Red, which will join the range at a later stage. It'll have a total of 550 kW and a whopping 1,000 Nm of torque. Those who enjoy towing will definitely love this.
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As mentioned earlier, the XM looks nothing like any BMW and makes a bold statement for itself, well, judging from the prototypes we spotted in George, Western Cape earlier this year. Anyway, it gets split headlights, a typically massive BMW front grille with gold-coloured surrounds plus a host of distinctive accents.
Reminiscent of the M1, the sides of the XM contain a black strip that runs along the body as well as BMW logos engraved into the flat rear window. The rear features slim taillights. The XM sits on standard 21" alloy wheels and buyers have the choice to fit up to 23" as options.
Unlike the X7, the XM is a five-seater and comes standard with M multifunction seats, knee pads and a model-specific M leather steering wheel, along with M-specific graphics including shift lights for the BMW Curved Display formed by a 12.3" information display and a 14.9" control display. A Head-Up Display is also part of the default features.
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Other features include heated backrests for rear seats, specially designed cushions and a 3D prism structure for the headliner. Buyers can choose from four different interior trims including a new vintage leather for various touchpoints.
BMW has thrown standard ambient lighting, four-zone automatic climate control, Harman Kardon Surround Sound System and Travel & Comfort System into the mix. A Bowers & Wilkins Diamond Surround Sound System with a 1,500-Watt amplifier and four additional speakers in the roof area can be had as options.
If you'd like to see the XM in person, it'll be on display at the upcoming BMW M Festival and thereafter, it'll go on sale in Mzansi in the second quarter of 2023.
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