BMW has taken the wraps off the XM Label Red, a high-performance electrified SUV that is also the most powerful production vehicle to have been built by the brand’s M division. Putting out a massive 748 horsepower and 1,000 Nm of torque, the new SUV boasts 95 horses and 200 Nm more than the standard XM. Without electric aid, the V8 petrol engine alone now churns out 585hp and 750Nm – a significant increase on the engine’s output in the standard SUV. Meanwhile, the electric motor chips in with 197 hp and a nominal torque of 280 Nm, which is increased to an effective maximum of 450 Nm at the transmission input using a patented pre-gearing stage. Thanks to the increased output, the XM Label Red accelerates from 0-100kph in a mere 3.8 seconds.
The XM Label Red gets a suitably impressive exhaust note thanks to the sports exhaust system that features two electronically controlled and continuously adjustable flaps and two pairs of dual tailpipes, with each individual pipe arranged one above the other. The electric power delivery also gets its own soundtrack from BMW IconicSounds Electric developed in collaboration with renowned film score composer Hans Zimmer.
BMW M says the M xDrive all-wheel-drive system’s rear-biased setup improves agility, especially in 4WD Sport mode. An electronically controlled differential lock in the rear axle further enhances traction and stability.
The XM Label Red also stands out from the rest of the models in the line-up thanks to a Toronto Red metallic accent band around the side window frames, with further red elements incorporated into model badges and wheel inserts. The M kidney grille and diffuser elements come in high-gloss black. The red and black colour scheme is carried over to the interior with the headliner and the trim for the body pillars finished in black, while red is used in the upper sections of the backrests and the head restraints of the two front seats and the outer rear seats. Adding to these is the red contrast stitching on the seats, instrument panel, door trim and centre console which are finished in black.
The new model is available in Brooklyn Grey, with more than 50 BMW Individual special paint finishes available for those who want to customise it. Production of the BMW XM Label Red is set to commence in August 2023, when an exclusive limited-edition version of just 500 units worldwide will also be available.
