BMW XM Base Model Called XM 50e, Black Label XM Hotter To Follow: Report

2022 marks 50^th M division anniversary and BMW celebrates an important milestone with the first custom M car since the legendary M1 of the 1970s. However, this is not a mid-engined coupe as the XM takes the form of a bulky plug-in hybrid SUV. It was previewed last year with its boldly stylish namesake concept and is set to break the cover as a production model before the end of the year when it goes into production in Spartanburg.

As previously reported, the version available at launch won’t match the Concept XM’s muscle. Instead, BMW will initially sell an electrified SUV with 644 horsepower and 650 pound-feet (884 Newton-meters) of torque. Famous company insider inguldyn from Bimmer’s post the forum claims to know about how the entry-level trim levels will be called. It will likely be named XM 50e to match the M Performance plug-in hybrid version of the new 7 Series, dubbed the M750e.

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Then in 2023, the XM Black Label will join the lineup with around 740 hp and 737 lb-ft (1,000 Nm) of power to match last year’s concept car. Both XM variants will use the new 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8 engine “S68” featuring mild hybrid technology. It has been installed in the latest 7 Series (750i) as well as the M60i successor to the X7 M50i.

According to the same BMW insider, the electric giant will get its next level of autonomous driving system from the company by the middle of next year. Standard across the range will be differential and navy sports brakes with the option of calipers painted black or red. Speaking of colors, the BMW XM 2023 will be available in Cape York Green, Marina Bay Blue, Brooklyn Grey, Carbon Black, Oxide Gray II, and Dravit Grey. For the interior, dark blue seats and seat belts are coming soon, along with carbon fiber trim. Wheel sizes will vary from 21 to 23 inches.

BMW will start production in December 2022 and discontinue the XM in November 2027, which will give it a relatively short life cycle. It’s unclear if a facelift is planned given the five-year lifespan or if additional versions beyond the 50e and Black Label are on the agenda. The latter will serve as a replacement for the typical Competition derivative available for the current M car plant.