When it comes to BMW’s lineup of sport hybrids, the first thing that comes to mind is probably the i8. While it’s a compelling model, with some bolt-on electric motors making the most of it and seeing BMW finally shut it down in 2020, the performance of its 1.5-liter three-cylinder engine doesn’t quite fit its supercar-like looks.
But the automaker’s latest foray into the sporty PHEV segment now offers strong performance to match its aggressive looks. In a press release, the German automaker introduced its first-ever electric hybrid BMW M model: a hybrid car presented “in a form never seen before. The production version, based on the striking – and controversial – XM concept unveiled at the end of 2021, saw some aesthetic changes when it arrived at the factory.
The 2023 BMW XM is actually the first original M model since the iconic M1 supercar debuted in 1978. It certainly has power worthy of its M badge, reportedly utilizing a 194-horsepower electric motor paired with a 438-horsepower 4.4-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine. BMW says this gives the XM a 100-kilometer acceleration time of 4.1 seconds and a top speed of 155 mph. With the optional M Driving Package, the 2023 BMW XM’s top speed will further increase to 168 mph, although if only the electric motor is used then the top speed will drop to 87 mph. While its 30-mile electric-only range is better than the i8’s, economy isn’t the only thing this M-powered hybrid brings to the table.
For a hulking SUV, the BMW XM produces a thundering 644 hp total and 590 ft-lbs of torque from as early as 1600 to 5000 rpm. This powerful performance is thanks to an 8-speed tiptronic transmission and a hybrid V8 setup similar to the one that powers BMW M’s competition race cars. the XM will also be the first M model to feature integral active steering, which allows crab-like driving maneuvers for faster steering response and safer lane switching.
Inside, the muscular hybrid blends vintage Merino leather, Alcantara and carbon fiber trim. Its exclusive rear seats – dubbed the “M Lounge” – can seat three, plus a glowing 3D-patterned cabin top. The BMW XM also includes dynamic mood lighting that pulsates with the help of 100 LED lights even during potential collisions and calls.
BMW’s iDrive 8 system returns to pay homage to a sizable curved infotainment display as well as adaptive headlights and M suspension, a head-up display, BMW Electric’s IconicSounds audio system and 23-inch wheels all as standard equipment. That’s not to say that BMW’s optional heated seats will be included: they’re actually part of the options, though they do at least include side panels and seat backs and bases.
The 2023 BMW XM is said to have a starting price of $159,000 and is expected to make its first production run by the end of 2022. Meanwhile, BMW also plans to launch a faster 735-horsepower Label Red variant in 2023, which will have a starting price of more than $185,000.
