BMW unveiled its most powerful and ultimate ‘M’ model yet, the Concept XM SUV, the first standalone M car after the legendary M1.
The world-renowned ‘M’ series cars came to light in 1978, when the Munich-based carmaker launched its first interpretation of a sports car. The M1 featured a mid-engine rear-wheel-drive layout, being the first and last such BMW. The response from car enthusiasts after the announcement charted the course of the brand completely, with the creation of its motorsport division and subsequently a slew of driver’s cars that would achieve legendary status in car culture.
On the occasion of the M division’s 50th year celebrations next year, BMW announced an exclusive M model for the first time in the 21st century, referencing the iconic M1 from the 80s. The designers at the Munich studio undertook a radical and polarizing approach to the styling of the all-new Concept XM. Only this time, BMW’s most powerful production vehicle will be an SUV.
Let’s start with addressing the elephant, or rather, kidneys, in the room, aka the (in)famous intake grilles on the front fascia. Carrying over from the recent iX and M series, the vents feature an octagonal orientation and are surrounded by twin-boundary LED DRLs for a futuristic appearance.
Additionally, BMW augmented the ‘light show’ with two more sets of sleek-looking DRLs, while its headlights hide underneath a translucent black plastic cladding below the grilles. Moreover, it features angular air curtains and surfaces on the bumper and hood, subtly hinting at the Tesla Cybertruck.
Coming over to the sides, the Concept XM strikes the right balance between contemporary and sci-fi-esque styling with some tasteful design choices. The large black-clad wheel arches expose a bespoke set of spoked alloys with self-centered BMW emblems that stay still relative to the vehicle’s movement, just like in a Rolls-Royce. Furthermore, the XM receives a two-tone paint scheme with a reflective silver coating and a cream-colored roof, providing a visual spectacle. It is further complemented by black window sills and a black bar running across the doors for that little extra detail.
The angular theme continues on the rear-end of the XM, with the highlight being the snake-inspired tail lights spilling over to the quarter panel. BMW also integrated a diffuser surrounding the quad-trapezoidal exhaust pipes. The final touch is the laser-etched white BMW logos on the windshield that honors the rear panel of the M1.
While the design can be debatable, the monster underneath the hood certainly makes up for it. Riding high on sustainability, BMW promises the most powerful ‘M’ powertrain with a plug-in hybrid V8 that produces a whopping 740 hp and an astounding 735 lb-ft of torque! BMW is still silent on performance numbers, but we suspect a 0-60 mph time in the 3-second range, comparable to the Lamborghini Urus and Porsche Cayenne Turbo GT. Meanwhile, the battery has enough juice to provide a 30-mile electric-only commute.
The interior design is taken to another level on the Concept XM, with the assurance of it making it on the production trim too! The steering wheel, center console, door trims, front and rear seats are all upholstered in throwback vintage leather, transporting you back to the golden ages.
The dashboard, however, is all angular and contemporary looking with carbon fiber surfaces. It also houses the massive BMW curved infotainment and drivers’ system with all the bells and whistles you’d expect. However, the crown jewel of the interior is the star-lit ceiling with multiple LEDs that can change color, courtesy of ambient lighting functionality.
The majority of the XM SUVs are destined towards the US market, with a decent number allocated for other regions. Deliveries should begin in late 2022, with some editions planned earlier too. Pricing and full details will be available shortly.
Gallery: BMW Concept XM
