2023 BMW XM plug-in hybrid SUV revealed, confirmed for Australia

The latest weapon from this German brand’s legendary performance division is unlike anything it has built before.

2023 BMW XM.

BMW’s vaunted M performance division has revealed a shocking change in direction.

The German brand has whipped the covers off its new XM performance SUV, which is the first electrified M car.

the XM is BMW’s first electrified M car.

It boasts a potent 4.4-litre twin-turbocharged V8 petrol engine and an electric motor that combine for a supercar rivalling 480kW and 800Nm.

BMW claims the bruising SUV can sprint from 0-100km/h in just 4.3 seconds.

Its all-wheel drive setup is biased towards the rear wheels, meaning it sends more power to the rear than the front. This is especially pronounced in Sport mode to help give it the character of BMW’s rear-wheel drive performance cars of old.

It has a big V8 and an electric motor.

The XM’s electric motor is combined with a 27.5 kWh battery that enables it to drive about 82km on pure electric power.

Its environmental credentials are still a little murky as the brand doesn’t have a claimed fuel use figure yet.

The XM has a price tag to match its performance. It will cost $297,900 before on-road costs when it goes on sale locally in the first half of next year.

BMW also revealed it has a Label Red version coming that boosts power to 550kW and 1000Nm. Price and details for that model will be revealed at a later date.

The XM has plenty of luxe and fashion statement features, too.

It has bold styling.

There is a choice between massive 22- or 23-inch alloy wheels and there are plenty of gold exterior highlights including around the flared nostril-like front grilles. This is matched to edgy styling with plenty of hard, sharp creases giving it a muscular appearance.

The XM’s cabin is festooned with high quality materials, including a leather wrapped steering wheel, heated rear seats and heated and ventilated front seats with a massage function.

It is due in Australia next year and will cost more than $300,000.

A curved 12.3-inch central screen is matched to a 14.9-inch digital instrument display.

A booming 1500-watt Bowers and Wilkins surround sound stereo adds to the appeal.

BMW has also included a head-up display that projects vital information such as your speed and safety alerts onto the windscreen in front of the driver.

A digital key will allow owners to unlock and lock their car with an app.

Originally published as 2023 BMW XM plug-in hybrid SUV revealed, confirmed for Australia