BMW has unveiled the 2026 XM with a 738hp plug-in hybrid V8, faster charging, and new colour and interior options. The XM Label now becomes the sole V8 variant globally.
BMW has taken the wraps off the updated XM, which is now officially the most powerful road-going model the brand has ever built. The updated SUV made its global debut just ahead of the 24 Hours of Le Mans, bringing key mechanical updates and a revised variant lineup for the 2026 model year.
One of the biggest changes is that BMW has dropped the mid-spec 644 bhp XM V8 variant. Going forward, only the high-performance XM Label and the entry-level XM 50e will be offered globally. While the XM’s bold design remains largely unchanged, BMW has introduced new colour options and interior combinations to keep the flagship SUV fresh.
Powering the new XM Label is the familiar 4.4-litre twin-turbocharged V8 engine paired with a plug-in hybrid system. The V8 on its own generates 577 hp and 553 Nm of torque, while an electric motor mounted within the transmission adds another 194 hp. Combined, the powertrain delivers a staggering 738 hp and sends power to all four wheels via an eight-speed automatic gearbox. This setup allows the SUV to accelerate from 0 to 100 kmph in just 3.8 seconds, despite tipping the scales at 2,764 kg. The top speed is electronically limited to 250 kmph but can be increased to 290 kmph with the optional M Driver’s Package.
BMW has also upgraded the onboard charging capabilities of the plug-in hybrid system. The XM now supports AC fast charging at up to 11 kW, up from the previous 7.4 kW, significantly reducing the charging time of the 26-kWh battery pack. While BMW hasn’t confirmed the exact charging duration, the improvement should enhance everyday usability for those relying on electric-only driving.
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Visually, the 2026 XM gets a new BMW Individual colour option—Frozen Tanzanite Blue Metallic—paired with available 23-inch Jet Black alloy wheels. Other exterior updates include the option to specify the signature kidney grille in high-gloss black and new lighting animations that activate when the driver approaches the car.
Inside the cabin, BMW has introduced three new BMW Individual interior themes. Buyers can now choose from Night Blue Merino leather with Vintage Coffee accents, full Black Merino leather with Vintage Coffee trim, or Silverstone Merino leather with black accents. The first two offer a full leather package covering most surfaces in the cabin, while the third comes with an extended leather package. Seat cushions across all variants now match the chosen leather theme as standard.
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Under the revised lineup, the XM 50e continues to serve as the entry point into the XM range. It features a 3.0-litre inline-six plug-in hybrid system producing 469 bhp and 700 Nm of torque. While it doesn’t offer the same brutal performance as the Label variant, it still delivers strong hybrid credentials and all-wheel-drive capability.
As for the Indian market, the XM is currently sold here in a single 4.4-litre 644 bhp variant, priced at ₹2.60 crore (ex-showroom). Since this specific trim has been dropped from the global lineup, it’s expected that the updated 2026 model—most likely the XM Label—will make its way to Indian showrooms by the end of this year.
