BMW has, not for the first time, served up another controversial concept car in the shape of the new Concept XM. It previews a new production model, the XM, which will be BMW’s first stand-alone ‘M’ model since the M1 was launched 50 years ago.
The concept, which was revealed at Art Basel’s 2021 Miami Beach show, in the USA, also shows BMW’s latest design language, which will be adapted and applied to all new models joining the range in the near future.
The Concept XM and its production car sibling will be powered by a new plug-in hybrid system that combines a V8 engine with high-performance electric motor to develop maximum output of 750 bhp and peak torque of 1,000 Nm. BMW says that the XM will be the first of many electrified M models - including full electric models in the future.
The series-production model – the BMW XM – will be built from the end of 2022 at BMW’s Spartanburg factory in the USA, which is the biggest and most important sales market for BMW’s M models and SUVs.
The electric element of the XM’s drive system delivers a claimed all-electric range of up to 50 miles, although the figure is BMW’s own and ther brand has yet to reveal any specifications relating to battery capacity.
As for design, BMW claims that the Concept XM ‘embodies an expressive new vehicle concept: a zero-compromise BMW M with striking BMW X design language.’ The front features a vast kidney grille, shallow LED headlights and angular air intakes while the rest of the exterior is a mix of sharp creases and angular panels.
Inside, the Concept XM features what appears to be production-ready layout that includes a long landscape screen along the top of the dashboard along with a relatively conventional three spoke steering wheel and gearshift controllers. The concept also features a sculptural, illuminated headliner that has been designed to give rear seat occupants something to look at instead of the scenery rushing past.
The series production version of the BMW XM is due to go on sale worldwide next year. The final design is expected to be unveiled early next year along with prices and final specifications.
Production-ready cabin features vintage leather and a sculptural headlining 
