BMW has unveiled the XM Concept, the first crossover SUV in BMW M history to be designed from the ground up rather than based on a production BMW model. So far, this is only a demonstration model, but at the end of 2022, the production of a car with a similar appearance will begin at the BMW Group plant in Spartanburg (USA).
BMW Concept XM
The BMW Concept XM itself will also turn into a commercial model. The BMW XM crossover will hit the market by the end of 2022 and will be a landmark model for the company. There are two reasons for this. Firstly, the XM will be only the second original model in the entire 50-year history of the M-division, which does not have a “civilian” source. The first such car was the mid-engined BMW M1 coupe, which was produced in 1978-1981. And secondly, it will be the first M-hybrid in history.
The BMW Concept XM, although created on the same platform as the X5 / X6 / X7 models, has a completely original body. The stern with long and thin headlights is also redesigned, and the protrusions with emblems in the upper part of the rear window are a direct reference to the very BMW M1 supercar, which had a similar shape to the engine compartment lid. Additional diode floodlights are installed above the windshield, wheels – 23 inches in diameter.
The concept introduces a new design language that will begin to spread among BMW’s older models in 2022. The giant “nostrils” have become faceted, and the area of the headlights has been radically reduced in comparison with the current models of the brand. The taillights are designed in the form of a thin LED strip. Aggressive stern adds a large diffuser with four trapezoidal exhaust pipes.
The interior features vintage-style brown leather, brass accents and carbon fiber. For the first time, BMW has introduced a single Curved Display, divided into the dashboard and media display area. The red accents on the steering wheel and center console are references to the sporty M-series models. The highlight of the cabin is the headliner with a three-dimensional prismatic structure.
Not much is known about the M Hybrid’s powerplant yet. The V8 petrol turbo engine together with the electric motor produces 750 hp. and 1000 Nm. By comparison, the 4.4 V8 engine in the current X5 M Competition and X6 M Competition models develops 625 hp. and 750 Nm. The BMW XM crossover will be able to move in a purely electric mode, the cruising range is 80 km. The model will not have other power plants.
Judging by the camouflaged prototypes that have been on the road for more than a year, the production BMW XM will not inherit all the features from the concept car. Although the overall proportions will remain the same. The cars will be produced at the same plant in the United States, where all BMW crossovers from X3 to X7 are made.
sudharsan has over a decade of experience covering the breaking news in the auto industry and over ten years of experience writing about cars for magazines, automotive websites, and YouTube videos.
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