The high-performance plug-in hybrid SUV ‘XM’, unveiled by BMW last year in celebration of the 50th anniversary of the launch of the high-performance division ‘M’, is drawing keen attention from netizens ahead of its domestic launch. XM succeeds the M brand’s first exclusive model M1, which was released in 1978, and is meaningful as it is the first electrified model of the M brand, and as many people expected, it can be seen in Korea.
Most of the design elements of the XM concept car were implemented, drawing attention, but like the latest BMW models released so far, a huge radiator grill and thin headlamps were applied. Although the nutria look has not been formed like the M3 and M4, likes and dislikes are still divided about the unconventional front end. We briefly looked at what specifications the XM will be released in the Korean market and what the launch price will be.
0-100km/h acceleration in 4.3 seconds
Hans Zimmer-made sound
The XM is equipped with a 4.4L V8 twin turbo engine-based plug-in hybrid system that produces a combined output of 653 horsepower and a maximum torque of 81.6 kg.m. An 8-speed automatic transmission sends power to all four wheels, pushing the body weighing 2,750 kg from a standstill to 100 km/h in 4.3 seconds, and the top speed is electronically limited at 250 km/h. A high-voltage battery with a capacity of 29.5 kWh is installed in the lower part of the body, allowing it to travel up to 80 km based on WLTP only with an electric motor, and can raise the maximum speed to 140 km/h.
The front-to-rear weight distribution of the XM is close to 50:50, and the center of gravity is also lowered thanks to the battery placed on the floor, providing an ideal combination of high performance and comfort, according to BMW. Here, the ‘BMW Iconic Sound Electric’ jointly developed with BMW by Hans Zimmer, famous as a composer specializing in movie soundtracks, adds to the thrill. When driving in electric mode, a virtual sound unique to M comes out according to the operation of the accelerator pedal, and when the sport or sport plus mode is selected while driving in hybrid mode, the boost sound provides dynamic driving sensibility.
Expect excellent second-row habitability with a rear-wheel steering system as standard
In addition, the electronically controlled Adaptive M Suspension Professional, active roll stabilization controlled by a 48V electric motor, and the M Sports Differential are standard features, and the rear wheel steering function ‘Integral Active Steering’ is standard for the first time in a BMW M model.
The interior is also gorgeous. In the first row, M multifunction seats, knee pads, and M leather steering wheels are applied as standard. The curved display, which integrates a 12.3-inch information display and a 14.9-inch control display, includes the latest specifications of the brand, such as M-specific iDrive 8 and BMW Live Cockpit Professional. In the second-row seats, specially designed seat cushions provide a high level of comfort to the occupants.
Entered in the abundance of options
The expected price of 230 million won
A three-dimensional prism structure is applied to the headliner, and a unique atmosphere is realized with 100 LED lights. In addition, ambient lighting, 4-zone air conditioning, and a Bowers & Wilkins Diamond Surround Sound System with an output of 1,500W are installed as standard.
BMW Korea plans to make advance reservations for XM through BMW Shop Online from 3:00 pm on the 21st, and the exact sales price will also be disclosed at this time. The industry expects XM’s domestic sales price to be between 220 million won and 230 million won. The official release is expected to take place in March.