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Angular shapes and a V8 engine, coupled with an electric motor, characterize the new top model from BMW.
First off, let's talk about the cabin. BMW has really outdone itself with the finishings in the MX. The attention to detail is apparent in every aspect, from the leather seats to the sleek dashboard. This is definitely a high-end SUV.
Under the hood, the BMW MX packs a big punch with its twin-turbo V-8 engine. This SUV is not afraid to flex its muscles on the road. And if you're eco-conscious, the reasonable amount of electric driving range is a nice touch.
But, as with any car, there are a few downsides to consider. The styling of the BMW MX is definitely love-it-or-hate-it. And while the ride is generally smooth, it could be more composed on rougher roads. And finally, there are other performance SUVs on the market that are quicker.
So what's the verdict? When BMW's M division puts their minds to creating a performance SUV, they don't disappoint. The 2023 BMW MX is a large crossover that can almost keep pace with an M3. It's definitely worth considering if you're in the market for a high-end SUV with impressive performance capabilities.
BMW’s M performance division is known for producing some of the fastest cars on the planet, like the M3 and M5 sedans. But they have now stepped into the SUV game, and the result is the 2023 BMW XM - a two-row crossover with serious sporting intentions that is slotted above the three-row X7 in BMW’s SUV lineup.
Exterior of the 2023 BMW XM
The vehicle has a massive, athletic and imposing silhouette.
The BMW XM boasts a striking exterior design that sets it apart from the crowd. The laser-engraved BMW badges on either side of the rear window pay homage to the iconic M1 sports car and add a touch of class to the already sleek profile. The exclusive Night Gold side accent stripe not only enhances the car's aerodynamic proportions but also emphasizes its agility, merging the ruggedness of an SUV with the dynamic elegance of a coupe. The illuminated signature grille, featuring the thin headlights of the BMW M label, stands out even in the darkest of environments, and the backlit grille surround adds a unique touch to the car's overall design. Finally, the 23" light-alloy wheels with Night Gold accents command attention on the road, further enhancing the XM's powerful presence.
Power, Price and Suspension
The XM’s styling is inspired by the XM Concept from 2021, which was known for its aggressive design with kidney-shaped grille openings, stacked tailpipes, and a slightly sloped roof that hinted at a fastback shape. The 2023 XM toned down the design, but it still looks bold and aggressive.
Under the hood, the XM packs a punch with a 644-hp plug-in hybrid powertrain that gets its muscle from a twin-turbocharged V-8. It can also do about 30 miles of electric-only driving with a fully charged battery. But what sets it apart is its performance potential.
The XM's starting price is high, at $159,995, but it comes loaded with luxury features like leather upholstery, huge 23-inch wheels, a cool curved infotainment display, and a host of driver-assistance features. There will also be a limited-edition Label Red model that will come with a more powerful 738-hp version of the XM's powertrain and unique interior and exterior styling elements.
During the XM’s first test drive, reviewers noted the powertrain's immediate punch and estimated that it should get the XM to 60 mph in about 3.8 seconds. However, this would put the XM at a disadvantage when compared to other performance SUVs like the Lamborghini Urus and the Porsche Cayenne Turbo S E-Hybrid, which delivered zero-to-60-mph times of 3.2 seconds in testing.
The XM uses a coil-spring suspension system that's augmented by adaptive dampers and active anti-roll bars. While it isn’t as smooth and composed as it would be with an air suspension, the Comfort driving mode ensures that the ride isn't too punishing. When set to Sport, the XM's handling is responsive and eager, making it a fun drive on twisty roads.
The 2023 BMW XM is an exciting addition to BMW's SUV lineup. It's aggressive design, powerful hybrid powertrain, and impressive handling will make an impact on the market. However, it faces stiff competition from other performance SUVs that are quicker off the line, but it still packs a punch that should not be overlooked.
Range, Charging, and Battery Life
The XM's plug-in hybrid powertrain allows for an electric-only driving range of about 30 miles on a full charge. While this may not seem like much, it's enough for short commutes or running errands around town without burning a drop of gasoline. Charging the battery is also quick and convenient, with BMW claiming that the onboard charger can recharge the battery to 100 percent in just over three hours. It's important to note that charging times may vary depending on the charging station used and the electrical system in your area.
Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG
With electricity and gasoline together you can expect a Toyota Prius level fuel economy from the BMW MX. BMW's window sticker states that the 2023 MX gets a 46 MPGe fuel economy with electricity and gasoline together. But since this is a heavy vehicle it gets only 14 MPG gasoline only.
Interior, Comfort, and Cargo
German automakers have always been renowned for their ability to produce premium cars that combine style, comfort and outstanding performance. And BMW is no exception to this rule. In fact, the Munich brand is famous for its expertise in propulsion and performance, as well as its cutting-edge design that pushes the boundaries of good taste. But where there is no debating is in the quality of the materials in its interior.
The BMW XM is a sleek, speedy SUV that perfectly blends the excitement of supercar driving with the stylish design of an SUV, all while offering a luxurious and revolutionary interior. The cabin features a sculptural Alcantara headlining with a prism-shaped structure that is illuminated by about 100 LEDs, creating a sense of opulence.
The three-dimensional character of the sky is reinforced by the use of light and the highly structured shape of the Alcantara. In addition, the deep blue roof frame is accentuated by a warm aubergine hue, adding a personal and elegant touch to the interior.
Step inside the XM's cabin, and you'll be greeted by high-end finishes and luxurious materials. The optional vintage-look leather upholstery adds a touch of class to the already sophisticated interior. The XM is strictly a two-row affair, but the spacious cabin provides plenty of room for passengers to stretch out and get comfortable. The available geometric-patterned faux-suede headliner with fiber-optic lighting is a unique touch that adds a bit of drama to the cabin. And if you're an audiophile, you'll appreciate the optional Bowers & Wilkins Diamond Surround Sound System with illuminating tweeters.
As for cargo space, the XM offers a decent amount of storage for a crossover of its size, with 27 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 56 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down.
Driver-Assistance Features and Warranty
The XM comes standard with a suite of driver-assistance features to help keep drivers and passengers safe on the road. Along with automated emergency braking and lane-keeping assist, the XM can also be equipped with an available adaptive cruise control system that includes a lane-centering feature, making it easier to stay in the correct lane on the highway.
For more information on the XM's safety features and crash test results, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites.
In addition to its safety features, the XM also comes with a competitive warranty and maintenance coverage plan. The limited warranty covers the vehicle for four years or 50,000 miles, while the powertrain warranty provides the same coverage. The XM also includes complimentary scheduled maintenance for three years or 36,000 miles, which is above average for the luxury segment.
The XM is surprisingly agile on country roads, the weight is well compensated, all-wheel steering makes it even more agile and more stable in the upper speed range. At the same time, the XM is a very comfortable car and ideal for long journeys. The parameters of steering, chassis and drive can be adjusted in small parts; it's fun to delve into those details.
Overall, the XM offers a comprehensive package of advanced safety features and a solid warranty and maintenance coverage plan, making it a top choice for luxury hybrid SUV buyers.
Armen Hareyan is the founder and the Editor in Chief of Torque News. He founded TorqueNews.com in 2010, which since then has been publishing expert news and analysis about the automotive industry. He can be reached at Torque News Twitter, Facebok, Linkedin and Youtube.
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