BMW Korea officially launches the New XM, a high-performance SAV model dedicated to the M brand.

The BMW New XM is the first M-only model introduced by BMW M since the legendary sports coupe M1 was launched in 1978 and features the first plug-in hybrid electric model in the M high-performance lineup. It boasts an overwhelming exterior that harmonizes BMW M’s distinctive design identity with the progressive aesthetics of BMW’s luxury class, a newly developed M hybrid drive system, and a futuristic yet luxurious interior, providing an unparalleled emotional experience unique to M.

The M hybrid system, making its debut in the New XM, intelligently controls the interaction between the engine and motor, delivering the extreme driving performance characteristic of M in all driving conditions. With a 489-horsepower high-revving V8 gasoline engine equipped with new M TwinPower Turbo technology and a 197-horsepower electric motor, the New XM achieves a combined maximum output of 653 horsepower and a maximum torque of 81.6 kg·m. It accelerates from a standstill to 100 km/h in just 4.3 seconds.

The New XM comes equipped with a 29.5 kWh high-voltage battery, allowing it to travel 62 km in pure electric mode, certified by the Ministry of Environment. The maximum speed in electric mode is 140 km/h, and it takes about 4.2 hours to fully charge the battery using AC slow charging. Additionally, it achieves an impressive combined fuel efficiency of 10.0 km per liter, making it the best in its class for high-performance vehicles.

The BMW Iconic Sound Electric, co-developed by the BMW Group and film score composer Hans Zimmer, provides a distinctive driving sound that matches the New XM’s performance. The electric driving sound unique to M delivers vivid feedback based on accelerator pedal input during electric mode, and in hybrid mode, selecting sport or sport plus mode provides a ‘boost’ sound that enhances the sensation of electric power transmission.

The exterior design of the BMW New XM showcases the dynamic proportions of a modern SAV, robust contours, dynamically flowing silhouette, exclusive M design elements, and unique accents that create a special atmosphere.

The split headlights at the front, in harmony with the BMW kidney grille adorned with highlighted borders and outline lighting, along with large air intakes, express the New XM’s powerful driving performance. Its boldly sculpted hood and the front bumper design harmonizing smooth surfaces with sharp edges further amplify the New XM’s commanding presence.

The gold accent strip running along the side evokes the black strip seen on the M1 while combining with the long roofline and large wheel arches capable of accommodating wheels up to 23 inches, completing a silhouette akin to a coupe. The rear is characterized by sculpture-like rear lights designed with a louver structure, the vertically arranged quad tailpipes (a first for BMW), and a large diffuser finished in black high-gloss, maximizing its sporty appeal.

The distinctive and unique atmosphere of the New XM’s exterior continues into the interior. The front seats feature multifunctional M seats, knee pads, and an M leather steering wheel, supporting dynamic driving. The BMW Curved Display and BMW Head-Up Display integrate M-specific graphics optimized for sports driving, providing essential information and a unique emotional connection.

The rear seats are designed as an M-exclusive lounge, featuring spaciousness, high-quality materials, and luxurious designs. With ample room and specially designed seat cushions, rear passengers can enjoy a level of comfort akin to being in a BMW flagship model. Additionally, the headliner made of Alcantara with a 3D prism structure creates a dynamic and progressive interior atmosphere through lighting effects using 100 LEDs.

The BMW New XM features the latest M specific iDrive and BMW Live Cockpit Professional. The BMW Live Cockpit Professional comes with a 12.3-inch information display and a 14.9-inch control display integrated into the BMW Curved Display, optimized for touch operations and gesture control, while the constantly upgradeable BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant allows drivers to engage with iDrive using natural language.

Moreover, the interior options of Silver Stone and Deep Lagoon colors in the ‘BMW Individual Merino & Exclusive Content’ include specially processed vintage leather that highlights the natural characteristics of genuine leather on the dashboard, door panels, and B-pillars, delivering a modern yet classic ambiance.

The sophisticated chassis system, infused with M expertise, offers a broad balance between the dynamism unique to M models and superior ride comfort. The electronically controlled Adaptive M Suspension Professional and the Active Roll Stabilization feature, operating on a 48-volt electric motor, maximize the New XM’s driving stability. The BMW Integral Active Steering, a first for any BMW M model, enhances agility at low speeds and amplifies driving stability at high speeds.

Additionally, the M Sport differential enhances agility, grip, and driving stability by effectively transferring engine power to the road, while large M Sport brakes ensure consistent and reliable stopping power. Drivers can intuitively adjust chassis settings through the M setup menu and save their preferred settings for instant recall with the M button on the steering wheel.

The New XM is equipped with advanced driver assistance systems as a standard feature. The Driving Assistant Professional includes lane-keeping assistance and stop-and-go functions, with lane change capabilities that allow the vehicle to move to the adjacent lane automatically upon the activation of the turn signal.

The Parking Assistant Plus supports features such as a BMW Drive Recorder, surround view, and remote 3D view, including rearview assistance for automatic steering along the entry path for up to 50 meters. The standard feature of augmented reality navigation provides drivers with more intuitive driving route information.

Equipped with the BMW Digital Key Plus, the New XM allows users to lock and unlock the car door simply by carrying an iPhone, thanks to enhanced secure ultra-wideband technology (UWB). It also supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, as well as personalized features based on BMW ID. Remote software upgrades ensure the vehicle software remains up to date, along with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Additionally, top-tier conveniences such as Bowers & Wilkins Diamond Surround Sound System, heating features for front seat doors and center console armrests in the Heat Comfort package, front seat massage function, front seat cooling/warming cup holders, door soft-closing, and 4-zone air conditioning are all included as standard features.

The BMW New XM is priced at 221.9 million won, and options like the M Extended High-Gloss Shadow Line, BMW Individual Metallic Paint, and BMW Individual Merino & Exclusive Content can be selected through the BMW Shop’s online reservation.

Lee Sang-jin daedusj@autodiary.kr