BMW South Africa launches XM

BMW South Africa is taking a step towards a greener future with the launch of their latest electric vehicle, the XM.

 The BMW XM represents a complete reimagining of the high-performance car segment and represents BMWs ability to push boundaries and offer fans of the brand the ultimate driving experience.

The newly developed M Hybrid system comprising a V8 petrol engine and powerful electric motor, an extravagant design and the progressive luxuriousness inside the BMW XM come together to create a fresh interpretation of the Sports Activity Vehicle concept for the high-performance segment.

Under the bonnet

The BMW XM is BMW M’s first ever high-performance car with an electrified drive system. A plug-in hybrid system comprising a V8 petrol engine and an exceptionally powerful electric motor endows the BMW XM with captivating dynamic prowess.

The newly developed high-revving 4,4-litre V8 with cutting edge M TwinPower Turbo technology is assisted by the electric motor which has been integrated into the eight-speed Steptronic transmission. This ensures propulsive power from the moment one steps on the accelerator.

The M Hybrid system in the BMW XM delivers an overall output of 480kW, with the internal combustion engine contributing 360kW and the electric drive system contributing 145kW. 

The intelligently managed interplay between engine and motor delivers a well-resolved performance experience worthy of the M badge in all driving situations. Power delivery is defined by an immense build-up of power that is instantaneous and sustained throughout the rev range, allowing the XM to sprint from 0 -100km/h in just 4,3 seconds.

The M Hybrid button on the centre console is used to select from one of three operating modes, including an electric setting for cruising with zero emissions at speeds of up to 140km/h and over a maximum distance of up to 88km. 

M Mode is used to switch from the default Road setting to Sport, where interventions from driver assistance systems are restricted to the essential functions required for sporty driving.

Power is transferred to the road via the all-wheel-drive M xDrive system, whose rear-biased setup is particularly noticeable in 4WD Sport mode. Drivers can also select 4WD sand mode, which has been conceived specifically for these types of off-road driving situations.

Distinctive design

The exterior design is a statement of exclusivity, presence and performance and includes proportions of a modern SAV, powerful contours, a dynamically stretched silhouette, M-typical design cues, a reworked interpretation of the front-end look created for BMW’s luxury segment models and a host of distinctive accents that give the XM a singularly extroverted aura.

The front end is defined by headlights that are split into two separate units, a BMW kidney grille with gold-coloured surrounds and continuous contour lighting and large air intakes. Along the side a gold accent band is reminiscent of the black strip running along the line of the original M1. 

Further nods to the past come in the form of BMW logos that are engraved into the flat rear window and the eye-catching louvred structure of the sculptural rear lights. M light alloy wheels in sizes measuring 21 to 23-inches also boast a highly distinctive design.

Setting new standards in interior luxury

Inside the cockpit and front seats are designed entirely around an active driving experience. Standard specification includes M multifunction seats, knee pads and a model-specific M leather steering wheel, along with M-specific graphics including shift lights for the BMW Curved Display and BMW Head-Up Display.

Generous space, high-quality materials and extravagant design transform the rear of the BMW XM into an exclusive M Lounge. Heated backrests that extend well into the sides of the rear compartment and specially designed cushions ensure luxurious levels of comfort. The sculptural headliner is quite unique with its three-dimensional prism structure, photo mount-style border and 100 LED units for illumination. Ambient lighting, four-zone automatic climate control, the Harman Kardon Surround Sound system and the Travel & Comfort system are all standard features.

A chassis that offers the best of both worlds

Sophisticated chassis systems with M-specific tuning enable the car to offer the widest possible spectrum between signature M dynamism and above average ride comfort in the segment. The integrated application of all powertrain and chassis systems on various types of roads from urban driving to country roads to motorways results in supremely assured handling across all these conditions.

Wide variety of driver assistance features

The BMW XM offers the largest selection of driver assistance systems offered for any high-performance vehicle from BMW. Standard specification includes the Driving Assistant Professional, Evasion Assistant, Alertness Assistant, Speed Limit Info system, Active Cruise Control with Stop&Go function and Parking Assistant Plus.

The BMW XM also comes standard with BMW Live Cockpit Professional which incorporates the latest generation iDrive. The system comprises a BMW Curved Display formed by a 12.3-inch information display and a 14.9-inch control display.

Model range and availability

The BMW XM is now available at Sovereign BMW dealers countrywide.

Looking for a reliable and affordable BMW? Look no further than our second-hand BMW-approved cars! Our vehicles are thoroughly inspected and vetted to ensure quality and performance. With a wide selection of models to choose from, we're confident you'll find the perfect BMW to fit your needs and budget. Don't wait any longer, come visit us today and drive away in the BMW of your dreams!