The BMW XM will be the first standalone BMW M model since the M1 in the early 80s
The Black Label version will have a 750-horsepower plug-in hybrid powertrain
An entry-level version with a hybrid six-cylinder engine could also be offered
BMW is revealing more details about the upcoming XM performance SUV that will be the first standalone M model since the M1 sports car sold in the early 80s.
According to recent reports, this new model will be available in at least two hybrid versions when it arrives in North America early next year.
Few details are known yet about this upcoming SUV, but we know its top-of-the-line version, which will likely be called Black Label, will be powered by a plug-in hybrid powertrain.
By combining a twin-turbocharged V8 engine with an electric system, this model will deliver 750 horsepower, which should be enough to make it compete directly with the Porsche Cayenne Turbo S E-Hybrid in terms of performance.
In addition, this hybrid drivetrain could be able to give the XM an electric range of around 30 miles (48 kilometres), although this number could change before the production model is introduced.
Rumours have it that the entry-level version on this continent will be powered by a regular hybrid variant of the 4.4L twin-turbo V8 that is used in many current BMW products such as the new 760i. With the help of electrification, this powertrain could offer 644 horsepower and 650 lb-ft of torque in the XM.
Another model that will slot below this one will be powered by the same engine as the 750e, which is a plug-in hybrid system that uses an inline six-cylinder engine to develop 490 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque.
Since this powertrain is not available in the 7 Series in North America, it is likely to be only available in Europe and other world markets in the XM.
More details about this awaited model should be known soon as BMW is preparing for its official launch.
