BMW is celebrating 50 years of its M division, the high-performance arm of the brand that has produced some of the most iconic and thrilling cars in history. But instead of resting on its laurels, BMW M is looking ahead to the future with a groundbreaking new model: the BMW XM Plug-in Hybrid.
The BMW XM Plug-in Hybrid is not your typical hybrid vehicle. It is a full-fledged M car that combines a powerful V8 engine with an electric motor to deliver astonishing performance and versatility. It is also a unique vehicle concept that blends the attributes of a sports car, an SUV, and a luxury sedan in one stunning package. It is designed to appeal to new customers who value driving dynamics and environmental responsibility.
The heart of the BMW XM Plug-in Hybrid is the M HYBRID system, which consists of a new 483-hp V8 engine with M TwinPower Turbo technology and a 194-hp electric motor integrated into the eight-speed M Steptronic transmission. Together, they generate a maximum system output of 644 hp at 5,400 RPM and 590 ft-lbs of torque between 1,600 and 5,000 RPM. This allows the BMW XM Plug-in Hybrid to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.7 seconds and reach a top speed of 180 mph (electronically limited).
But the BMW XM Plug-in Hybrid is not just about raw power. It also offers the ability to drive purely on electric power for up to 30 miles (estimated range according to preliminary BMW AG tests based on the EPA's test procedure standards). This means that the BMW XM Plug-in Hybrid can operate as a zero-emission vehicle in urban areas or for short trips while still having the range and performance of a conventional gasoline-powered car for longer journeys or spirited driving.