BMW XM

The 2025 BMW XM in India features a powerful M Hybrid powertrain, combining a 4.4-litre twin-turbo V8 engine (S68) with an electric motor integrated into the 8-speed M Steptronic automatic transmission. The standard XM produces a combined output of 644 bhp (653 PS) of power at 5400-7200 rpm and a massive 800 Nm of torque at 1600-5000 rpm. This allows for a blistering 0-100 kmph acceleration in just 4.3 seconds. The XM boasts an electronically governed top speed of 250 kmph, which can be optionally increased to 270 kmph. The plug-in hybrid system also allows for an electric-only range of up to 88 km (WLTP) and an electric top speed of 140 kmph, making it surprisingly efficient for daily commutes. The XM Label variant, a more powerful version, produces 738 bhp and 1000 Nm of torque, accelerating from 0-100 kmph in 3.8 seconds with a top speed of up to 290 kmph. The V8 delivers immense power with a thrilling exhaust note, while the electric motor provides instant torque fill and silent urban driving. Fuel efficiency is around 61.9 kmpl (WLTP combined, considering electric range).

Ride and Handling

The 2025 BMW XM is engineered to deliver a dynamic and engaging ride and handling experience, despite its substantial size and weight. It features an Adaptive M Suspension as standard, with specific tuning for the XM, which includes electronically controlled dampers and active roll stabilization. While it uses coil springs rather than air suspension (a notable departure for a luxury SUV), BMW states this choice enhances handling precision. This setup provides a firm and controlled ride, offering excellent body control and minimizing roll during aggressive cornering, making it surprisingly agile for its size.

The M-specific Servotronic steering with variable ratio is precise and offers good feedback, making the XM responsive and engaging through corners. The M xDrive all-wheel-drive system, with a rear-biased setup, ensures optimal power delivery and traction in various road conditions. The large, performance-oriented tires further enhance grip and stability. While the ride can be firm, especially in its sportiest dynamic settings, it remains composed enough for daily commuting, though it prioritizes performance over ultimate plushness. The M Drive modes allow drivers to customize throttle response, steering weight, suspension stiffness, and even braking feel to suit their preferences.

The interior of the 2025 BMW XM is a lavish and technology-rich cabin designed to offer a luxurious and comfortable experience for five occupants. It blends high-performance cues with opulent materials and bespoke design elements. Premium leather upholstery, often in striking two-tone combinations, is used extensively, complemented by Alcantara, carbon fibre, and metallic accents. The "M Lounge" in the rear is a particular highlight, featuring sculpted seats with diamond quilting, deep cushioning, and ample legroom, creating a truly luxurious and comfortable space for rear passengers.

The cockpit is driver-focused, featuring the latest BMW Curved Display, which seamlessly integrates a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 14.9-inch central touchscreen. Creature comforts include four-zone automatic climate control, heated and ventilated front seats with massage function, soft-close doors, and a Bowers & Wilkins Diamond Surround Sound System with 20 speakers. A unique "Sculptural Headliner" with prism-like 3D structure and integrated ambient lighting adds to the cabin's distinctive ambiance. Boot space is a practical 527 litres.

Infotainment

The infotainment system in the 2025 BMW XM is powered by the latest BMW Operating System 8.5 (or 8.0 depending on market/production date), presented through the impressive BMW Curved Display. This setup seamlessly integrates a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a large 14.9-inch central touchscreen display, providing a futuristic and highly customizable user experience. The system is intuitive to use, with sharp graphics and a user-friendly interface. It can be controlled via touch, the iDrive rotary controller on the center console, steering-wheel-mounted controls, or advanced gesture control.

The digital instrument cluster offers various M-specific displays, including performance meters, energy flow, and customizable views for driving information. The system supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, ensuring seamless smartphone integration. The Bowers & Wilkins Diamond Surround Sound System with 20 speakers and 1475 watts of output delivers an exceptional audio experience. Additional features include an adaptive navigation system with 3D maps, BMW Head-Up Display with M-specific view, Bluetooth connectivity, multiple USB ports (including Type-C charging in rear seatbacks), and Wi-Fi hotspot capability.

The exterior design of the 2025 BMW XM is undeniably bold, polarizing, and instantly recognizable. It features massive proportions and a highly angular, aggressive aesthetic that sets it apart from any other BMW. The front is dominated by an enormous, illuminated BMW kidney grille, flanked by slim, split-headlight units that give it a unique and intimidating face. Gold accents, a hallmark of the XM, are present around the grille and window surrounds, adding to its opulent and exclusive feel.

The XM boasts a muscular and sculpted body, with flared wheel arches accommodating massive 21-inch (standard) or optional 22-inch and 23-inch alloy wheels. The side profile is characterized by a high shoulder line and a distinct coupe-like roofline, despite its SUV stature. The rear design is equally dramatic, with slim, L-shaped LED taillights, vertically stacked hexagonal quad exhaust tips (a unique XM signature), and prominent gold badging. Its dimensions are approximately 5110 mm in length, 2210 mm in width (including mirrors), and 1755 mm in height, with a substantial wheelbase of 3105 mm.

Safety is a paramount consideration in the 2025 BMW XM, which is engineered with a robust chassis and a comprehensive suite of active and passive safety features. It has received commendable safety ratings from international organizations, including a 5-star overall safety rating from NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration), underscoring its strong occupant protection.

The XM is equipped with 6 airbags (driver, passenger, side, and curtain airbags) as standard, providing extensive passive protection. Active safety features include Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Brake Assist (BA), Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) with extended contents, Traction Control (TC), Hill Assist, and Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS). It also boasts an extensive suite of Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems (ADAS), including Park Distance Control (PDC) at the front and rear, a 360-degree camera system, Active Driving Assistant (with lane departure warning and blind-spot monitoring), Automatic Emergency Braking, and Adaptive Cruise Control. These systems work cohesively to enhance driver confidence and provide a high level of safety.

The 2025 BMW XM operates in an ultra-exclusive segment of high-performance luxury SUVs in India, facing off against a very select group of formidable rivals.

Its primary competitors include the Audi RS Q8 and the Lamborghini Urus. The Audi RS Q8 offers a powerful V8 engine and a blend of luxury and performance, while the Lamborghini Urus is known for its extreme supercar performance in an SUV body. The XM differentiates itself with its unique plug-in hybrid powertrain, highly distinctive and polarizing design, and a focus on a luxurious, lounge-like rear cabin experience.

Other indirect rivals could include the Mercedes-AMG G-Class, Lexus LX, and high-end variants of the Porsche Cayenne. The XM's unique blend of immense hybrid power, unconventional styling, and BMW M's performance credentials makes it a highly desirable and exclusive choice for buyers seeking a statement-making luxury performance SUV in the Indian market.

The 2025 BMW XM is a truly unique and audacious offering in the Indian luxury performance SUV segment. It marks a significant step for BMW M, showcasing its commitment to electrification without compromising on raw power and driving excitement. The combination of a potent twin-turbo V8 and an electric motor delivers astonishing performance, while its bold and polarizing design ensures it stands out from the crowd. The interior is a testament to luxury and technology, particularly the opulent "M Lounge" in the rear.

While its unconventional styling and firm ride (due to the coil spring suspension) might not appeal to everyone, the XM justifies its premium price with its unadulterated power, comprehensive safety features, and the sheer exclusivity it offers. For discerning buyers in India who desire a high-performance SUV that makes a strong statement, embraces cutting-edge hybrid technology, and delivers a thrilling yet luxurious experience, the 2025 BMW XM is an exceptional and highly desirable choice.