The BMW XM has received a bit of a mixed response, but there’s a strong argument that it’s a logical next step on from the BMW M5. Think about it, the M5 is special because it combines practicality with exceptional performance. The BMW XM does the same thing, though you’re trading a little handling quality for far more practicality.
On a recent venture in BMW’s performance SUV, I weighed up the pros and cons of BMW’s most divisive vehicle. And it may be a better choice than BMW’s flagship.
The M5 still wins out on performance
If you get your foot down in an XM, it takes off like a rocket. You’ll be at highway speeds before you can blink and risking a ticket by the time you manage to glance down at the speedometer. This is doubly the case in the “XM Label” I tested. The SUV’s 4.4-Liter BMW M TwinPower Turbo V-8 produces a very significant 738 horsepower and 738 lb-ft of torque. But there’s more to performance than straight line speed, and the BMW XM has a few disadvantages here.
It’s significantly larger, heavier, and taller than an M5. This weight is definitely noticeable in the curves while the lack of air suspension exacerbates the already noticeable body roll. But it’s still pretty good for an SUV.
So yes, if you’re looking for a daily driver that can double as a track car, the M5 is still king. You can track an XM, and a particularly violent sport mode is still present. I did also have a lot of fun with one ripping through the Catskills. But its overall size is still in the back of your mind and encouraging you to keep it on a bit of a leash. Especially in the more challenging sections.
The XM shines on distance drives
Back in 2025, I took a BMW M5 on a bit of a road trip. I drove from Albany NY, to NYC, and then down Long Island to attend The Bridge. By the time I arrived, my body was certainly feeling it. The 2025 BMW M5 is far from a comfortable distance driver.
In contrast, the BMW XM is every bit as comfortable as the German marque’s other SUVs. Being a BMW, it drives smoothly at highway speeds, while its interior is exceptionally plush. Vented and heated massage seats sooth out any troubles your back may be having, and the driving position is far easier on your body.
Yes, the fuel economy is a little rough. But that’s the price you pay for the performance aspect. Aside from having to top up the gas tank a little more often, the BMW XM is as pleasant a distance driver as you’ll find.
It is more practical than an M5, but still not a large SUV
The BMW XM is a two-row full-sized SUV offering 18.6 cubic feet of storage space with the rear seats up and 64.3 cubic feet of cargo space when those seats are down. While this is far from the biggest SUV on the market, it’s still a lot more than you get from a sedan.
The 8.7 inches of ground clearance is handy too. When coupled with the M xDrive All-Wheel-Drive System and MSport Differential, it makes for a pretty capable light off roader. Conversely, the M5’s ground clearance clocks in at less than five inches, which means you’ll have to keep the front end in mind when pulling up to a high kerb.
It’s biggest problem is still other BMWs
The BMW XM is not a bad performance SUV. But I can see why it struggles to shine in a pretty solid BMW lineup. If you want a solid all rounder, you’re likely to go for an X5. If you want a performance SUV, a BMW X7 with an M package is cheaper and does everything exceptionally well while providing significantly more space than the XM. If performance is your main concern, then you’re going for an M3 or an M5.
I can see why the XM exists, I don’t see the people who opt to get one being overly disappointed in it. But it exists in an expensive niche amongst a remarkably solid and competitive range of performance vehicles.
Specs as reviewed:
Pricing & Packages
Base MSRP: $159,600.00
Total Suggested Retail Price: $163,275.00 (includes $1,175.00 destination charge)
Added Options: M Driver’s Package ($2,500.00)
Performance & Drivetrain
Engine: 4.4-Liter BMW M TwinPower Turbo V-8 (32-valve) with cross-bank exhaust manifold and integrated electric motor (Plug-In Hybrid)
Transmission: 8-Speed M Steptronic automatic transmission with Drivelogic and Launch Control
Drivetrain: M xDrive All-Wheel-Drive System with M Sport Differential
Chassis & Handling: Adaptive M Suspension Professional, Active Roll Stabilization, and Integral Active Steering
Brakes: M Compound 4-wheel ventilated anti-lock disc brakes (ABS) with cross-drilled rotors and black calipers
Fuel Economy & Range
Combined Fuel Economy: 47 MPGe (Electricity + Gasoline) / 14 MPG (Gasoline only)
All-Electric Range: Up to 29 miles
Charging: Complete charge in approximately 2 hours at 240V (Flexible Fast Charger and NEMA 5-15/14-50 adapter bundle included)
Exterior & Interior Styling
Exterior Color: Frozen Tanzanite Blue Metallic
Interior Upholstery: Night Blue with Vintage Coffee leather upholstery
Trim & Accents: Carbon Fiber M Signature interior trim, leather dashboard, extended Shadowline trim, and an illuminated kidney grille
Wheels: 22″ M Dual-Spoke Bicolor 922M wheels
Exhaust: Vertical quad exhaust system
Comfort & Convenience
Seating: Multi-function front seats with lumbar support, massage, ventilation, and heating; heated rear seats; exclusive M Lounge configuration in the rear
Climate Details: Heated front armrests and steering wheel, alongside heated and cooled cup holders
Doors: Soft-close automatic doors and Comfort Access keyless entry
Audio & Connectivity
Sound System: Bowers & Wilkins Diamond Surround Sound System
Interface: BMW Curved Display running iDrive 8.5, featuring Live Cockpit Pro with navigation
Smart Tech: Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, Digital Key Plus, and Personal eSIM 5G connectivity
Safety & Driver Assistance
Driving Assistant Professional: Includes Highway Assistant (limited term), Traffic Jam Assistant, and Active Cruise Control with Stop & Go
Parking Assistance: Parking Assistant Plus with Surround View 3D cameras and Park Distance Control
Security & Recording: Drive Recorder and BMW Assist eCall
