BMW XM Label Red: A Potent Red Behemoth Confirmed for SA

BMW XM Label Red: A Potent Red Behemoth Confirmed for SA

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Dubbed the most potent M car to be developed entirely by the folks at the M division after the M1 of 1978, the BMW XM is set to officially go on sale in Mzansi in the coming months. 

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While we await its arrival, BMW SA has confirmed that a more potent model with the Label Red moniker will join the range packing more power and a much more added appeal. 

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Unlike the regular XM model that packs 480 kW and 800 Nm, the Label Red uses the same high-revving 4.4-litre V8 powerplant plus an electric motor that contributes up to 145 kW and 280 Nm. The total system output is rated at 550 kW, and a colossal 1,000 Nm of torque is sent to all four wheels via an 8-speed automatic transmission. 

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On the performance front, the XM Label Red sprints from 0-100 km/h in 3.8 seconds and like the regular XM, its top speed kicks in at 250 km/h or 290 km/h with the M Driver's Package. BMW SA says the package will be standard for models destined for the local shores. 

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On battery power alone, the XM Label Red can travel up to 83 km, thanks to a 25.7 kWh battery pack that can be recharged via an AC charger up to 7.4 kW, which takes about four hours for a full charge. 

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Aesthetically, the Label Red features an accent band in Toronto Red metallic shade, and if that's not what you want, BMW says you can specify a black accent band. The red hue has been applied to the model badges and the wheel inserts, while the massive M kidney grille and diffuser elements are painted in black high-gloss.

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Buyers can also choose from a spectrum of exterior colour choices, including one solid and eight metallic hues. It sits on a set of 22" light-alloy wheels. 

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BMW plans to build only 500 examples of the XM Label Red, and only a few have been placed aside for the local market. Each model will have a plaque below the control display reading '1 of 500'.

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Though its looks are subjective, the Label Red is a sign of good things to come as much as electrification is taking its course at the Munich-based automaker. At least, this is comforting that the blaring sound of the V8 will still live on, even if it's just for the next couple of years. 

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The BMW XM Label Red will officially premiere at the Auto Shanghai 2023 show.

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