What is it?
The XM is BMW M's first standalone model since the M1, and the first M-only car ever built as a plug-in hybrid. Three grades for Australia: the inline-six XM 50e at 350 kW combined, the V8 XM at 480 kW combined, and the Label Red flagship at 550 kW and 1,000 Nm. All variants use an 8-speed M Steptronic automatic, xDrive AWD, Active Roll Comfort anti-roll and integral active steering. The 25.7 kWh battery delivers up to 88 km WLTP EV range, with 2,500 kg braked towing across the range.
The lineup runs from XM 50e at $297,900 plus on-roads, through to XM Label Red at $359,900 plus on-roads. Warranty cover sits at 5 years, unlimited km.
Interior and Technology
550 kW Label Red is the most powerful production BMW M car ever sold. Up to 88 km WLTP EV range on the 50e covers a metro commute on electric only. Bowers and Wilkins Diamond audio standard on V8 grades is audiophile-grade. The M Lounge rear cabin and prism headliner are unique in the segment. 2,500 kg braked tow rating for trailer or boat work.
Polarising exterior styling, the front end especially divides buyers. 2.7-tonne kerb weight is felt under heavy braking and through tight corners. $297k-plus entry overlaps with Cayenne Turbo E-Hybrid and Urus SE. 5-year warranty with 8-year battery is behind Genesis or Volvo coverage.
Should you buy the XM?
Reasons to buy
- 550 kW Label Red is the most powerful production BMW M car ever sold. Up to 88 km WLTP EV range on the 50e covers a metro commute on electric only. Bowers and Wilkins Diamond audio standard on V8 grades is audiophile-grade. The M Lounge rear cabin and prism headliner are unique in the segment. 2,500 kg braked tow rating for trailer or boat work.
- Warranty: 5 years, unlimited km. Battery: 8 years, 160,000 km.
- 527 L (1,820 L seats down) boot, segment-competitive cargo space.
- Braked towing rated at 2,500 kg.
Reasons to wait
- Polarising exterior styling, the front end especially divides buyers. 2.7-tonne kerb weight is felt under heavy braking and through tight corners. $297k-plus entry overlaps with Cayenne Turbo E-Hybrid and Urus SE. 5-year warranty with 8-year battery is behind Genesis or Volvo coverage.
- You want a more conventionally styled luxury SUV, a lighter platform under the badge, or you cannot stomach a $297k-plus entry that overlaps Cayenne Turbo E-Hybrid and Urus SE.
- ANCAP has not rated the XM. Confirm 25.7 kWh battery range claims match your commute pattern, the headline EV figures assume freshly charged use. Active Roll Comfort is impressive on smooth roads, less convincing on poor surfaces.
- Top trim climbs to $359,900 plus on-roads.
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