BMW continues to make its next generation of hybrid/electric SUVs look ugly enough to wake the non-believing spirits of the dead from their unmarked graves and ascend without hesitation to the pearly gates of heaven. The BMW XM high-performance super SUV is engineered to thrill, but weighing 2.7 tonnes, it should be called the first electrified super heavy performance SUV. The XM is powered by a 4.4-litre V8 twin-turbo hybrid that generates 483 hp (490 PS) and 479 lb-ft (650 Nm) which is distributed to all four wheels.
Power is delivered via an 8-speed automatic transmission pretty much to be expected in a vehicle of this super heavy class. However, a 194bhp electric motor is housed within the transmission boosts the combined power to 644bhp and 590 lb-ft (800 Nm) between 1,600-5,000 rpm. The magnitude of this powertrain allows the XM to perform the 0-62mph time in just 4.1 seconds.
The top speed is limited to 155mph, however, BMW offers the M Drivers Package which includes a de-restricted mode allowing for a true top speed of 168mph. The XM, being a plugin-hybrid offers a claimed 30 miles of pure electric range, and most journos will believe BMW’s belligerent mind control statements.
The BMW XM has a 25.7 kWh battery pack and as such, it takes nearly 3 hours to charge from around 10 percent to full. Entry-level model XM’s will ride on 22-inch wheels, 23-inch wheels will be available either as an optional upgrade or offered as standard on flagship derivative models.
In terms of ride and handling, BMW has thrown the engineering kitchen sink into the chassis, it’s more computer-controlled than machine these days. It needs to be to haul such a big mass without making the occupants feel as though they are about to fall out of the thing.
The XM has a 50/50 weight distribution, a classic BMW trait. A wide track and long wheelbase allow BMW to position the battery pack at the bottom of the floor to lower the center of gravity. Therefore, even the XM’s basic mechanical engineering should ensure more “Ho” than “Heave” when it comes to handling and ride comfort.
As for the interior, it is focused on luxury. And as with all modern cars, the XM’s interior features a fully digital driver’s binnacle and infotainment system. I will not go into spec details because the standard XM spec sheet is akin to reading the bible in one sitting. And you can be certain BMW will offer enticing costly extras that you really don’t need.
The biggest talking point isn’t the sheer size of the thing, BMW has long wanted to vape into the face of Land Rover. The XM finally allows BMW to do exactly that. However the XM exterior styling is the main talking point, it’s a big thumbs down from many in the mainstream media to Joe public. But you know what? I think it looks really ugly-cool.
But the price of the thing is truly ugly, the BMW XM performance will retail from $185,000 when it goes on sale early next year. Entry-level derivatives and more drivetrains options will follow in due course and are most likely to mirror engines and powertrains currently available for the BMW X5.