KUALA LUMPUR: The first-ever BMW XM is expected to arrive in Malaysia next year. Online pre-booking starts from Oct 20.
The estimated retail pricing (on the road, without insurance) for the sportiest SUV from BMW is RM1.4mil. The price includes extended 5-year warranty and service. Langkawi price starts from RM820,000.
Currently in the final stages of its development, the plug-in hybrid gets a BMW M Hybrid drive system, coupled with model-specific M suspension technology.
BMW's Spartanburg plant in the US will start XM production in December.
The announcement comes as BMW marks the 50th anniversary of M this year.
As standard, the XM features the M Aerodynamics Package and M High-Gloss Shadow Line, with Extended Contents available for the Shadow Line profile. Adaptive LED headlights with High-beam Assistant are also standard.
The SUV is fitted with 23-inch wheels. Two twin tailpipes are arranged vertically to set it apart from other BMW cars.
The cabin is defined by the BMW Curved Display, consisting of an information display and a touchscreen control display.
Of course, there are the usual M-specific displays to ensure that the driver has total control of all driving functions.
Visually denoting the M status of the SAV are the M Leather Steering Wheel, M Seat Belts and M Multifunctional Seats.
Luggage space is 527 litres, and is expandable to 1,820 litres.
READ MORE: BMW M launching its first own car in 40 years
For greater comfort, active seat ventilation and 4-zone automatic air conditioning control are included. Massage function is also available for the driver and front passenger.
Ambient light and BMW Iconic Sounds Electric further enhance the atmosphere within the cabin, while in-car entertainment is provided by the Bowers & Wilkins Diamond Surround Sound System.
The rear of the cabin is marked by the so-called M Lounge that comprises a full-width rear seat bench that curves and encloses the passengers.
Sophisticated upholstery lends the space an exclusive lounge feel.
A distorted view of the rear seats. Below is how they look in fact.
According to BMW, Alcantara headliner with its prismatic 3D structure creates a visual highlight that contributes to a sense of space.
The XM is the first M model with a plug-in hybrid drive.
The 4.4-litre turbocharged V8 engine makes 360kW or 489hp and a maximum torque of 650Nm. It is paired with a 194hp/279Nm electric motor for a system output of 653hp and 800Nm, delivered via an eight-speed Steptronic Sport automatic transmission.
The dash from 0-100kph takes 4.3s. Top speed is capped at 250kph (270kph with the M Driver’s package, which is included as standard), while electric top speed is capped at 140kph.
An intelligent M xDrive all-wheel drive system contributes to optimum handling and maximum traction.
The Li-ion battery under the floor enables an all-electric range of up to 88km.
The SUV be charged at up to 7.4kW at an AC charging station. With a net battery capacity of 25.7kWh, a complete charge from 0% to 100% takes 4 hours and 15 minutes.
Colour choices are Cape York Green Metallic, Carbon Black, Marina Bay Blue, Toronto Red, Mineral White, Black Sapphire and Dravite Grey.
Interior upholstery can be specified in Leather Merino Deep Lagoon with exclusive content, Leather Merino Silverstone with exclusive content, Leather Merino Black and Leather Merino Sakhir Orange.
