BMW has launched the all-new XM SUV and the facelifted M340i sedan in the Indian market. The new BMW XM is priced at Rs 2.60 crore (ex-showroom, India), making it the flagship BMW model in our market. On the other hand, the new BMW M340i sedan is available at a price tag of Rs 69.20 lakh (ex-showroom, India).
New BMW XM
The new XM is the brand’s first M model to feature a plug-in hybrid powertrain. It features a 489bhp, 4.4-litre twin-turbo V8 engine coupled to an electric motor, offering a combined power output of 653bhp and a peak torque of 800Nm. This engine is paired to an 8-speed automatic gearbox that sends power to all 4 wheels via the M xDrive system. BMW is also preparing a more powerful version of the XM, the Label Red, which will be launched globally in September 2023. This model with a hybrid powertrain will offer a combined power and torque of 748bhp and 1000Nm respectively.
It is claimed to achieve 0-100kmph acceleration in just 4.3 seconds before hitting an electronically limited top speed of 250km/hr. With the optional M Driver’s package, the top speed can be increased to 270kmph. The new BMW XM can run up to 80km purely on EV mode. The SUV comes with adaptive M suspension, electronically controlled dampers and a new 48V system.
In terms of styling, the new BMW XM gets a massive, illuminated kidney grille with gold treatment, a split headlamp unit, 21-inch wheels as standard, large air intakes, slim L shaped rear lights, and latest generation M Sports brakes with black callipers. Customers can also opt for 22-inch or 23-inch M light alloy wheels. The cabin layout seems shared with the iX and i4. The rear seating is called ‘M Lounge’ with more focus on occupant comfort. It comes with a 12.3-inch digital instrument console and a 14.9-inch touchscreen infotainment system with latest iDrive 8 software. The SUV gets ADAS tech, 4-zone climate control and the Harman Kardon surround sound system.
BMW M340i facelift
The new M340i comes fitted with a 3.0-litre, inline-six turbocharged petrol engine with a 48V mild hybrid system. This engine is capable of producing 374bhp and 500Nm of torque. Power is transmitted to four wheels via an 8-speed automatic gearbox. It is claimed to achieve 0 to 100kmph acceleration in 4.4 seconds. Compared to the standard 3 Series, the BMW M340i facelift comes with lowered, M-specific suspension, an M Sport differential, M Sport brakes and M Sport exhaust.
The facelifted model comes with a slimmer headlamps, restyled grille and revised rear bumper It rides on newly styled 19-inch alloy wheels. Inside the cabin, the sedan gets a freestanding curved instrument panel that accommodates a 14.9-inch curved touchscreen & a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster.
