BMW introduces the XM as the first high-performance hybrid car

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German manufacturer BMW, long known for its focus on performance and exceptional driving experiences, has introduced the XM Sports Car, the first high-performance electric vehicle in the brand’s M line.

There’s more emphasis on performance than fuel economy, which seems almost to be expected from BMW. I don’t think people who will pay $159,000 (plus $995 freight and options) for a BMW XM will really have good fuel economy.

Why a plug-in hybrid powertrain? I think there are two reasons. The first is the performance factor: The combination of a powerful V-8 engine and a powerful electric motor creates a five-passenger BMW SUV that boasts a total system output of 644 horsepower and 590 pound-feet of torque.

But you can really save fuel if you want. The XM has an estimated range of 30 miles of driving on electric power alone, between charges. The car’s on-board lithium-ion battery can be recharged in about seven hours using a Level 2 (230 volt) charger, like the charger most people would have installed in their garage if they bought a hybrid or pure electric car.

EPA ratings for the XM are 46 mpg combined/equivalent using a combination of electric and gasoline operation (mostly electric); And 14 mpg combined city/highway for primarily gasoline operation.

When you’re not worried about fuel economy, it’s good to know that the BMW dollars), included. On our test car.

Of course, there’s no place in the United States where you can legally drive that fast on a public road, but it’s nice to know the power is out there. Many of us live near private trails that allow us to experience the power of XM without the hassle.

Under the hood of the XM is BMW’s 4.4-liter turbocharged V-8, which itself is rated at 483 horsepower and 479 pound-feet of torque.

It’s paired with a synchronous electric motor integrated into the XM’s eight-speed M Steptronic automatic transmission. This engine itself is rated at 194 horsepower and 207 pound-feet of torque.

Put these two power sources together, and you get smooth throttle response from the moment you step on the throttle, all the way to the top of the powerband.

This is because electric motors do not need to rev to reach peak torque as internal combustion engines do; Full power from the motor is instantaneous. It provides take-off power when the gasoline engine is moving to reach its best torque at 5000 rpm.

Now, what if I told you that the 2023 XM, while powerful, is about to be overtaken by the high-performance 2024 XM?

Coming for the new year is the XM Label Red model, a more powerful and exclusive version of the XM, offering a total system output of 738 horsepower. This makes it the most powerful BMW M road car ever.

The M Hybrid system in the XM Label Red “clearly demonstrates the benefits of electrification in high-performance BMW M models,” the manufacturer says.

BMW says the XM Label Red’s combination of internal combustion engine and electric motor is conceptually similar to the powertrain found in the new BMW M Hybrid V-8 endurance race car, which made its debut at the 24 Hours of Daytona up north. BMW says the US IMSA series.

The system’s maximum output is an increase of 94 horsepower over the standard XM. Total system torque rose by 148 pound-feet, also to 738 total.

On all XM models, power is sent to the road via the M xDrive all-wheel drive system. The system is rear-biased and includes a sporty all-wheel drive mode. With the Dynamic Stability Control system disengaged, the enhanced 4WD all-wheel drive mode, specifically for driving over sand dunes and similar surfaces, can be activated via the M Setup menu.

It also comes with an electronically controlled differential lock at the rear axle, which enhances traction, agility and directional stability.

Our test car came in Cape York Green Metallic exterior paint, had 23-inch M light-alloy wheels and sports tyres.

We also got the well-designed Deep Lagoon/Vintage Coffee two-tone leather interior ($2,500 upgrade).

The interior was extremely luxurious, incorporating a sculpted headliner that BMW calls a “3D Prism Structure,” which is covered in Alcantara.

The front seats were very comfortable, but BMW has expanded the comfort level to the back as well. The rear seat adds to the car’s feeling of spaciousness, which BMW refers to as the “M Lounge” concept.

The back seat has two spacious outboard seats and a full-size space for a third passenger in the middle.

The 3D diamond embroidery extends to the door panels, while diamond-shaped lines at the top of the backrest and integrated headrests give the rear seats a sporty look.

Our car came with the impressive Bowers & Wilkins sound system, a $3,500 upgrade.

Ride and handling were well above average, but exactly what one would expect from an expensive BMW.

The total sticker price for the 2023 BMW XM was $168,395, including shipping and options.

Note: BMW assembles the XM at its U.S. plant in Greer, South Carolina, near Spartanburg

G. Chambers Williams III’s automotive columns have appeared regularly in the Express-News since 2000. Contact him at chambers@auto-writer.com Or at X@gchambers3. His driving partner Emma-Jane Williams contributed to this report.

Package: Midsize SUV, five-door, five-passenger, V-8 gasoline engine, all-wheel drive.

Highlights: A new product from the BMW plant in Greer, South Carolina, the 2023 BMW XM is the first high-performance electric vehicle in the BMW M segment.

Negatives: High prices, poor gasoline fuel economy.

Engine/Power: A 4.4-liter V8 turbocharged gasoline engine, plus an electric motor.

Transmission: Eight-speed automatic.

Power/Torque: 644 hp/590 ft. (total system output); 483 hp/479 lb-ft (gasoline engine); 197 hp/207 lb-ft (electric motor).

maximum speed: 155 mph (with M Driver’s Package).

Zero to 60 mph: 4.1 seconds.

Curb weight: 6,063 pounds.

Shipment size: 18.6 cubic feet (behind rear seat); 64.3 cubic feet (rear seat folded down).

Trailer towing capacity: undefined.

Brakes, front/rear: Disc/dial, anti-lock.

Electronic stability control: standard.

Side airbags: Seat mounted side, front; Side curtain, both rows.

Fuel capacity/type: 18.2 gallons/lot unleaded.

EPA fuel economy: 46 mpg/e (gasoline and electric); 14 mpg (combined city/highway, gasoline).

Base price: $159,000 plus $995.

Price as tested: $168,395, including freight and options (2023 XM with M Driver’s Package).

Rating on the road: 7.8 (out of a possible 10).

Prices shown are manufacturer’s suggested retail prices; Actual selling price may vary.