Trust BMW to pull out all the stops despite the torrential rains. While the annual BMW Joyfest was unfortunately called off due to the unpredictable weather, the team behind BMW Philippines made sure that the weekend’s main showcase would still be highlighted. In the signature stylings of SMC Asia Car Distributors president Spencer Yu, a private media viewing was held at RSA Motors Greenhills. It was a free-flowing afternoon among friends, paired perfectly with cake and coffee.
It was an exclusive unveil, created not only to turn heads, but also to put BMW as the benchmark when it comes to incomparable design, exemplary performance, and sustainable driving.
At the forefront was the BMW XM. While most of us have only heard of the XM as a concept, it has arrived in the metal as the first-ever high-performance plug-in hybrid of the BMW M line. From the onset, the BMW XM stands for individuality and a true representation of power, luxury, and sustainability. The M Hybrid drive system was made for on-road performance, underpinned by a newly developed, high-revving 4.4-liter V8 with M TwinPower Turbo technology. This combination delivers an overall output of 653hp and a maximum torque of 800Nm.
The intelligent interplay between engine and motor aims to offer driving performance that’s worthy of the M badge, in all intents and situations. It’s defined by an immense build-up of power that is instantaneous and is sustained throughout the rev range. This allows the BMW XM to sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in just 4.3 seconds. Thanks to the lithium-ion high-voltage battery mounted in the car’s underbody, the ELECTRIC setting mode can be selected for cruising with zero local emissions at speeds of up to 140 km/h and over a maximum distance of 82 – 88 kilometers.
In addition to the ELECTRIC mode setting, the M Hybrid button on the cockpit allows the driver to also choose from HYBRID and eCONTROL modes. On the other hand, the M Mode button offers the option of switching from the default ROAD setting to SPORT setting. This limits the driver assistance systems to restrict interventions to just the essential functions required for sporty driving.
The BMW XM is a looker and commands an imposing presence. It takes design cues that are typical of an M car, seen in the M high-gloss Shadow Line that runs along its sides, reminiscent of the black strip along the body of the BMW M1. This is combined with powerful contours, the proportions of a modern SAV, and a reworked interpretation on the front end that was created for the brand’s luxury-segment models. Its defining features include a massive front kidney grille that has an integrated continuous contour lighting, large air intakes, and two separate units for headlights.
While the exterior of the XM demands attention, the interior cabin is driver-focused and all about bringing a luxurious experience to its passengers. In fact, the rear of the BMW XM is, at best, an exclusive M lounge. The interior is wrapped in BMW Leather Merino, with extended contents in Deep Lagoon upholstery, while the trimmings of upper sections of the instrument and door panels are finished in carbon fiber. There is also a sculptural headliner with a unique three-dimensional prism structure, photo mount-style border, and 100 LED units for illumination.
Luxurious comfort is a priority in any BMW experience. The XM is fitted with heated backrests that extend into the sides of the rear compartment, with specially designed cushions, ambient lighting, and a four-zone automatic climate control system. For leveled-up entertainment, the BMW XM is equipped with a Bowers & Wilkins Diamond Surround Sound System. This audio set-up delivers studio-quality acoustic technologies and 3D audio, with speakers installed even in the headliner.
Coupled with the BMW Live Cockpit Professional and 12.3-inch BMW Widescreen Display, it brings a next-generation multi-sensory BMW iDrive vehicle experience that is geared toward touch operation and gesture control — with cloud-based BMW Maps and standard integration of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
When it comes to intelligent driving, the BMW XM boasts of the largest selection of driver assist systems offered for any high-performance vehicle from the BMW M line. Under the BMW XM Driving Assistant, Front Collision Warning and Lane Departure Warning are standard features, including lane return with steering assistance. It also comes with Evasion Assistant, Alertness Assistant, and Speed Limit Info systems. The Driving Assistant Professional combines Active Cruise Control with Stop & Go function, along with a host of other features, including Steering and Lane Control Assist, Traffic Light Recognition, Automatic Speed Limit Assist, and Active Navigation.
Parking Assistant Plus and Reversing Assistant are also standard features. This system comprises practical functions, such as Parking View, front-and-rear Panorama View, and 3D View.
Innovative and an epitome of individualism, the all-new BMW XM is, in every sense, the most definitive M car to date. But don’t take our word for it. Check it out for yourself at RSA Motors.
The BMW XM retails for P15,890,000, packaged with a 5-year BMW factory warranty and free installation of a BMW Wallbox Charger.