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BMW has unveiled a new model that previews an upcoming performance SUV from its M brand – the Concept XM.
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The production model – badged XM – will be built from the end of 2022 at BMW’s plant in Spartanburg, USA. It will arrive as BMW M’s first standalone vehicle since the legendary M1.
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Available in plug-in hybrid guise only, the XM will combine a turbocharged V8 engine with an electric motor to produce a total of 740bhp and 1,000Nm of torque. Thanks to its electrification, it will be able to travel for up to 50 miles on electric-only power, too.
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“The BMW Concept XM represents a complete re-imagining of the high-performance car segment,” said Franciscus van Meel, CEO of BMW M GmbH. “It underlines the ability of BMW M GmbH to break with established conventions and push boundaries in order to offer fans of the brand the ultimate driving experience. The series-production car – the first pure BMW M model since the legendary BMW M1 – also shows how we are approaching the step-by-step electrification of our brand.”
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Most noticeable of all are the huge front grilles, which are in between split headlights. Underneath, there’s an M-badged splitter and side air intakes. Around the back, you’ll find twin tailpipes – a BMW M design hallmark – while the rear window is almost completely flush with the end of the car.
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Inside, the XM combines modern and classic touches. For instance, there’s vintage-looking brown leather which sits alongside carbon fibre to create a distinct appearance. Carbon fibre interwoven with copper thread is used around the vents and displays, while BMW’s Curved Display screen gives access to all major functions.
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There are large seats finished with diamond quilting, while the headliner has been made into a focal point thanks to a three-dimensional prism structure.
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