Images of BMW M’s first electrified model reveal subtle design changes compared to the concept version.
BMW‘s M division had showcased the concept of the XM SUV in November last year. Now, leaked patent photos of the production-spec XM reveal that though there are minor styling changes, distinctive and angular design from the concept have been retained.
The XM will be sold solely as an M car – the only car before this to claim that exclusivity was the M1 supercar of 1978.
- Production XM will be powered by a 650hp, hybrid V8
- Will feature the BMW M xDrive system
Production-spec BMW XM: design updates
Compared to the concept XM, the leaked patent images show a smaller kidney grille, with split LED Daytime Running Lamps and headlamp set-up previously seen on the all-new 7-Series. The images also reveal a new central intake below the front grille with a prominent sensor for the SUV’s high-tech driver assistance systems. Other highlights also include the reprofiled air curtains and fender flares at the front and traditional door handles as well as thicker pillars towards the side.
BMW has confirmed that it will also offer optional 23-inch M-spec alloy wheels on the production-spec XM. Compared to the concept, the images show repositioned stacked quad exhaust system and redesigned tail-lights at the rear. Additionally, the images also reveal the reprofiled bumper and diffuser, while retaining the angular rear window.
Production-spec BMW XM: powertrain details
The production-spec BMW XM will use a plug-in hybrid powertrain that’s designed around its new 4.4-litre V8 engine that is expected to be paired to an 8-speed automatic transmission. This will allow the XM to produce a combined power output of 650hp and 800Nm of torque which will drive all four wheels via the M xDrive system.
It is also expected that BMW will introduce a more powerful variant of the production XM that will put out 750hp and 1,000Nm as seen on the concept version. As a plug-in hybrid, the production-ready BMW XM will have an electric-only range of 80 kilometres as per the WLTP cycle. It will also be equipped with adaptive suspension and a new electromechanical roll stabilising system with 48-volt technology.
BMW in India
As part of the ongoing 50th anniversary celebrations of its M division, BMW has launched 50 Jahre Editions of the M340i, 630i M Sport, 530i M Sport, M4 Competition, and the X7 40i M Sport. In May, the German brand launched the i4 EV, which has a claimed range of 590km, as per the WLTP cycle – highest amongst all luxury EVs sold in the market.
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