Most powerful BMW to blast into showrooms later in 2023

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BMW has upped the ante in the luxury high-performance SUV stakes.

The BMW XM Label Red is the most powerful model to wear the manufacturer’s famous blue and white propeller badge.

Most high-performance BMW M models, such as the BMW M5, are based on normal versions which are then modified by BMW’s M Division.

But the XM is the first designed and built from scratch by the brand’s fast-car department. It is due not to arrive in Australia until later this year, but while the regular BMW XM has 480kW of power and 800Nm of torque, the Label Red has enormous 550kW and 1000Nm outputs that make it one of the most powerful cars on sale.

The big four-door combines a 430kW and 750Nm 4.4-litre twin-turbo V8 similar to what is in a BMW X5M with a sophisticated plug-in hybrid system.

Plug-in hybrid power helps make the XM greener than some rivals. The hybrid unit includes a 25.7kWh battery and 145kW electric motor capable of driving the big wagon on electric power alone for 83km.

It also returns impressive fuel economy of just 1.7 litres per 100 kilometres, though like any plug-in hybrid car it will be tough to match in reality.

The Label Red has bloodcoloured highlights inside and out.

Power goes to all four wheels through an eight-speed automatic transmission.

As expected for a high-performance SUV, the XM has huge brakes and clever tech such as active anti-roll bars.

The cabin is loaded with luxury features, combining top quality materials with widescreen displays and the brand’s latest iDrive infotainment system.

Priced from $344,200 plus on-road costs – or $349,900 as a limited-edition version with special matte black metallic paint – the new XM is due to arrive Down Under at the end of the year.

For more information contact Westco BMW on 4020 8996.