2023 BMW XM uncovered, affirmed for Australia

BMW M has uncovered its first independent model since the M1 supercar of the 1970s, the 2023 BMW XM super SUV – in front of an Australian launch in the first half of next year.

An opponent to the Lamborghini Urus and Aston Martin DBX, the XM is a car of various firsts: the biggest full BMW M performance model at any point constructed, its first with a plug-in hybrid, and its most powerful ever.

First European deliveries are expected right on time one year from now – with Australia due in the first half of 2023, priced from $297,900 in addition to on-road costs – in a single variant, with a higher-performance ‘Label Red’ model set to follow towards the finish of the year with 550kW.

2023 BMW XM

Powering the launch model is BMW M’s most recent 4.4-liter twin-turbocharged petrol V8 (known as the S68) creating 360kW/650Nm, helped by a 145kW/280Nm electric motor and a 25.7kWh battery pack.

Together, the petrol and electric elements quote joined results of 480kW and 800Nm.

They send drive to each of the four wheels through an eight-speed automatic transmission, really great for a 0-100km/h sprint time of 4.3 seconds, a top speed of up to 270km/h with the ideal option boxes ticked, and 82-88km of electric-only driving range in European testing.

Due later one year from now is a flagship Label Red model with 550kW and 1000Nm – while reports recommend an entry-level six-cylinder model might come, with 360kW/700Nm.

The production XM draws a huge impact from last year’s Concept XM, with the biggest translation yet of BMW’s signature ‘kidney’ grilles – illuminated with LED strips – and split headlights similar to the flagship 7 Series and X7.

The door handles, front air intakes, and LED tail-lights have transformed from the concept – however styling signs, for example, the body creases, broad rear pillar, rising window line, stacked exhaust tips, and rear window BMW logos have continued for the most part unchanged.

Estimating 5110mm long, 2005mm wide, and 1755mm tall, on a 3105mm wheelbase, the XM is nearly as lengthy as the seven-seat BMW X7, in light of the equivalent floorplan – yet the XM just has five seats, and a lower roofline.

The compromise of its size and power is weight, as US specifications recommend the XM tips the scales at 2750kg – making it one of the heaviest BMWs ever produced, regardless of M badging.

2023 BMW M2 Prototype Review and Specifications

Under the skin, the XM benefits from a new M xDrive all-wheel-drive system worked for plug-in hybrids, with an electronic locking back differential, BMW’s latest fast-reacting traction control technology, and variable torque split between the axles.

New for a BMW M vehicle is a 48-volt active anti-roll stabilization system, which uses electric motors to keep the XM’s body flat in corners. Versatile suspension and rear-wheel steering are additionally accessible.

Alloy wheels up to 23 inches in diameter are accessible – enclosed by 275/45-profile front and 315/40-profile back Michelin tires – which hide high-performance brake discs.

Inside, the production XM’s dashboard is more traditional than the concept, with a middle stack shared with different vehicles in the BMW line-up – however, it attempts to recall the 2021 concept, with unique leather interior color, and 100 LED lights in the Alcantara headlining.

The brown leather found in the launch photographs is “aged” before it is placed into the car – while in the back there’s what BMW calls the ‘M Lounge’, with sculpted outer seats and trim that stretches out into the doors.

The super SUV scores a similar twin-screen panel as other new BMW models, with a 12.3-inch digital instrument display and a 14.9-inch touchscreen running the brand’s most recent iDrive 8 software, with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and satellite navigation.

A full suite of advanced driver help helps is supposed to be accessible, including autonomous emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, lane centering assist, and front and rear cross-traffic alert.

The 2023 BMW XM is set to enter production in the US this December, in front of the first Australian deliveries in the first half of 2023.

Pricing for Australia will begin from $297,900 plus on-road prices.