MCARMARKET

BMW XM

The first standalone M model since the M1: a 6,000 lb plug-in hybrid SUV with divisive styling, a vault-like interior and genuinely startling performance.

BMW XM — 2023–present

The XM is only the second vehicle designed from the ground up as an M model, after the M1 in 1978. It is a plug-in hybrid, it weighs more than 6,000 lb, and it makes 644 hp — or 738 hp in Label Red trim.

The interior is the most lavish M has produced, with a sculpted headliner, extensive leather and a genuinely luxurious rear compartment. It can also run around 30 miles on electricity alone.

It is a difficult car to place. As a fast luxury SUV it is impressive; as an M car it is contentious. Depreciation has been steep, which makes used examples an interesting proposition for anyone who wants what it offers.

Year by year

  • 2023

    Launch at 644 hp. Extensive standard equipment including air suspension, active roll stabilisation and rear-wheel steering.

  • 2023–2024 Label Red

    738 hp and 738 lb-ft; the most powerful production BMW at the time of launch. 50 Jahre M edition also offered.

  • 2025–present

    Range rationalisation; option and colour updates through the M Individual programme.

The good and the bad

Positives

  • +The most powerful production BMW models at launch
  • +Genuinely luxurious interior with a unique design language
  • +Around 30 miles of electric-only range
  • +Rear-wheel steering and active roll stabilisation make it surprisingly agile
  • +Steep depreciation creates used-market value

Negatives

  • −Over 6,000 lb — physics eventually wins
  • −Styling is the most divisive BMW has produced in decades
  • −Hybrid complexity and unproven long-term costs
  • −Very expensive new and depreciating quickly
  • −Tire and brake costs are extreme

Known faults and what they cost

  • High-voltage system serviceSpecialist labour

    Requires certified technicians; many independents will not touch it.

  • Air suspension components$2,000–$4,000

    Complex air suspension with active roll stabilisation; failures are expensive.

  • Tire wear$2,500–$3,500 per set

    23-inch wheel options and enormous mass destroy tires.

  • Software calibrationWarranty updates

    Hybrid drivetrain behaviour has been refined via updates; keep the car current.

Pre-purchase inspection checklist

  • 01Check high-voltage battery state of health via diagnostics
  • 02Verify all software updates and campaigns are complete
  • 03Test air suspension at all ride heights and check for leaks
  • 04Inspect tire wear and check wheel condition — 22 and 23-inch options are vulnerable
  • 05Confirm charging equipment is present and functional
  • 06Review service history and confirm dealer-level hybrid servicing

Modifications for longevity

  • Follow the hybrid service schedule

    Battery coolant and high-voltage checks are part of the plan.

  • Oil every 7,500 miles

    Regardless of the extended service indicator.

  • Air suspension inspection

    Catch leaks early to avoid compressor failure.

  • Regular charging

    Keeps the high-voltage battery healthy; avoid long periods at low charge.

  • Tire rotation and alignment

    Essential given the mass and torque.

Modifications for performance

  1. 01Settings and tires

    Configure the drive modes properly; fit the best available tire.

  2. 02Software tune

    Available but consider warranty and hybrid system implications carefully.

  3. 03Exhaust

    Improves an otherwise muted V8 note.

  4. 04Leave the suspension alone

    The active systems are deeply integrated; aftermarket changes rarely improve them.

What they are worth

The XM has depreciated sharply, which makes low-mileage used examples strong value for buyers who want the interior and the performance.

Label Red and 50 Jahre M editions hold value better. Verify full BMW service history and hybrid system health on any purchase.

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