BMW XM Super SUV Revealed Ahead of September 27 Debut

BMW M is close to unveiling its first stand-alone model since the iconic M1 supercar launched 40 years ago. This time it will be an SUV, dubbed the XM, and it is expected to debut on September 27.

A teaser video released on Tuesday shows the XM's throaty exhaust note and its light signature design; clues have already surfaced as to what the XM will look like, thanks to the release of a concept version a year ago. Spies have also seen a camouflaged prototype test-driving since last year, and in early September, images purported to be official patent drawings were released.

The noise in these images comes from a newly developed twin-turbocharged 4.4-liter V-8 engine that serves as part of the XM's plug-in hybrid powertrain. System output will be in the neighborhood of 750 hp and 737 lb-ft of torque, making the XM the most powerful BMW road car to date. Although not yet confirmed, it is possible that a modest version of the base XM will be available as a plug-in hybrid, with the 750 hp version reserved for something like the XM Competition model.

The powertrain will then be available in more BMW vehicles, which could include a redesigned M5 in the testing phase. If engineers adopt BMW's existing plug-in hybrid design, the powertrain would consist of a single electric motor sandwiched between the V-8 engine and transmission.

The unveiling of the XM marks the culmination of the M division's 50th anniversary this year, which heralded the division's electrified future with the M4 CSL, M3 Edition 50 Jahre BMW M, M3 Touring, and M Hybrid V8 LMDh racing car. In October, the M2 model change is scheduled for October.

The XM will be built at BMW Group's plant in Spartanburg, South Carolina, and is expected to hit the market in the first half of next year. Pricing has not yet been determined, but as the flagship of the BMW M lineup, it will likely have a base sticker in the six-figure range.