The BMW XM has launched in South Africa alongside the new BMW M2. See pricing below…

the xm

A “statement of exclusivity, presence and performance [we’ll get to the latter soon]”, the XM’s exterior design features a large kidney grille — replete with gold-coloured surrounds and continuous contour lighting — flanked by slim split headlamps. The gold hue has also been applied to the accent band running along the side. BMW emblems are engraved into the rear windscreen. As standard, the XM sits on a set of 21-inch alloy wheels, with 22- and 23-inch items available as an option.

The interior features BMW’s curved dual-screen set-up, comprising the digital instruments and infotainment system, replete with M-specific visuals. Ambient lighting is also present, as is four-zone climate control. A Harman Kardon surround sound system is standard fitment. The steering wheel, BMW says, is specific to the XM. The M seats feature multifunction adjustment.

As a reminder, the XM employs a “newly developed” version of the German marque’s 4.4-litre V8 petrol engine, which, by itself, produces 360 kW and 650 Nm of torque. The M TwinPower-equipped unit is coupled with a 145 kW/280 Nm electric motor, which is integrated into the XM’s eight-speed M Steptronic automatic transmission.

In total, the hybrid arrangement delivers 480 kW and 800 Nm to the Bavarian brand’s M xDrive all-wheel-drive system. BMW claims these outputs allow the XM to complete the obligatory 0-100 km/h sprint in 4.3 seconds.

the xm

BMW XM PRICE

The XM is priced from R3 400 000. Pricing includes a five-year/100 000 km maintenance plan and a two-year/unlimited km vehicle warranty. The hybrid battery warranty is eight years/100 000 km.