The new 2024 BMW XM is one of the most hotly anticipated vehicles of the year. As BMW M’s first ever standalone SUV model, the XM promises to deliver a combination of extreme high performance and luxury.

But this cutting-edge plug-in hybrid technology and bespoke luxury appointments come at a cost – the BMW XM has a base MSRP starting at $159,995.

For some context, that makes the XM one of the most expensive BMW SUVs ever produced. It costs nearly twice as much as a fully loaded BMW X7.

So what exactly does almost $160,000 get you with the new BMW XM super SUV? And is it actually worth the ultra premium pricing? Let’s take an in-depth look.

XM Trim Levels: Base vs Label Model Pricing

The BMW XM is currently available in two main trim levels – a standard base XM and the even higher-performance XM Label model. Here is how the manufacturers suggested retail pricing (MSRP) shakes out:

Base XM: $159,995
XM Label: $185,995

That represents a $26,000 price premium to step up to the Label variant – which nets you an extra 94 horsepower plus bespoke design details.

Since the XM platform is brand new, BMW has been keeping optional extras to a minimum during the launch phase. Most standard features on the base XM are also included with the Label model.

So far few buyers are getting much in the way of discounting deals from dealerships on these ultra hot new XMs. Wait times on orders are stretching over 6 months in some cases. And dealer markups over MSRP have been common due to high demand.

As supply and demand eventually stabilize, interested buyers should expect some room to negotiate. But even moderate discounts could mean saving $5,000 – $10,000+ off sticker price.

Unbeatable Performance – But At a Price

The six-figure cost of entry might cause sticker shock. But the BMW XM also delivers performance metrics that compete with some of the world’s top exotic supercars:

Base XM: 644 horsepower, 4.1 sec 0-60 mph time
XM Label: 738 horsepower, sub-4 second 0-60 mph

The clever plug-in hybrid powertrain mashes together a twin-turbo V8 engine with electric motor drive and AWD. It’s enough thrust to pin your passengers against their seat backs during maximum acceleration runs.

While a handful of ultra high performance SUV rivals like the Lamborghini Urus, Porsche Cayenne Turbo GT and Jeep Grand Cherokee Trackhawk offers similar straight line speed, the BMW outperforms them all when you factor in its 30+ mile electric-only driving range.

So in terms of delivering outrageous speed plus driveway bragging rights, the XM certainly justifies its sky-high pricing to an extent.

Interior Luxury That Aligns With the Cost

Beyond straight line speed, the new XM also delivers a cabin experience on par with its pricing and performance. This 2-row SUV provides seating for up to 5 passengers in supreme comfort:

Multi-contour front seats with massage functionality
Extended Merino fine grain leather
Heated/ventilated seats
Generous headroom and legroom

And that’s just the tip of the luxury features iceberg – the XM can be equipped with exotic materials like glass crystal shift knobs and engine Turned Aluminum trim lifted from bespoke BMW Individual catalog.

Cargo capacity is decent at 19 cubic feet behind the rear seats – enough room for several large suitcases or a week’s groceries. The trunk swallows up to 64 cubic feet total with the rear seats folded flat.

The only notable absence is a 3rd row seating option – making the XM strictly a 5 passenger vehicle. For buyers needing to haul around 7 or 8 occupants frequently, the larger BMW X7 SUV might make more functional sense in spite of its tamer performance specs.

Cutting Edge Tech from Instrument Cluster to Headliner

The interior of the XM isn’t just luxurious – it also delivers a tech experience on par with a concept car at times.

One of the most stunning interior features is the optional headliner material – a geometric faux suede design embedded with hundreds of LED fiber optic lights. It can animate to music or themes at the press of a button.

Other interior tech highlights include:

Curved 31” driver information display
Latest iDrive 8 software
Integrated personal assistant
Digital key functionality via smartphone
5G connectivity
Wireless charging
Augmented reality video display
Alexa voice assistant integration

And that’s not even getting into the staggering 1,475 watt Bowers & Wilkins 3D Diamond Surround Sound system with illuminated speakers – a $3,400 option but well worth the upgrade for hardcore audiophiles.

Love It or Hate it Exterior Styling

The XM exterior styling has proven divisive – to put it mildly. The massive upright grille and slit-like headlights are clearly intended to get attention rather than elegance. And with such an extroverted design, the engagement tends to be polarized between ardent fans and haters.

Regardless of whether the looks resonate personally or not, there’s no denying the imposing road presence of this SUV.

With overall exterior dimensions of:

201” length
79” width
71” height

…plus gnarly 23” factory wheels, the XM will never be accused of blending quietly into the background.

And special touches like illuminated kidney grilles, intricate roundels and an agressive rear diffuser add to the visual drama – especially at night.

XM Offers Real Electric Range – Not Just for Show

Unlike some plug-in hybrid supercars, the XM has enough battery capacity and electric motor drive to actually rely on EV mode for local commuting and errands.

BMW states an all-electric driving range of 30+ miles is achievable on a full charge. And multiple reviewers have validated driving at highway speeds for over 25 miles before the gas engine kicked on for extended range.

Recharging the 25.7 kWh battery from empty takes just over 3 hours using the maximum 7.4 kW onboard charger. That’s quick enough to top it off conveniently overnight.

Of course once that battery depletes, the fuel economy sinks to a dismal 12 MPG city / 17 MPG highway rating – the cost of moving 5,700+ pounds of vehicle mass without electric assistance.

But unlike some plug-in hybrid supercars that offer only single digit electric range, the BMW XM gives you a genuinely useful emissions-free daily commute.

What Do You Get for Your $160,000+ Investment?

When evaluating whether the XM justifies its astronomical pricing, the key elements to consider are:

Extreme High Performance – supercar rivalling acceleration, braking and grip that outperforms all other BMW SUV models – including the X5 M and X6 M.

Bespoke Luxury Touches – one of a kind details like crystal glass controls, faux suede headliner and resonating tweeters that set the cabin apart.

30+ Mile Electric Range – enough real world emissions-free driving range to avoid using a drop of gasoline during daily commuter duties.

Intimidating Road Presence – the XM exterior styling isn’t elegant but it definitely commands attention – especially from hardcore BMW fans.

For buyers who plan to tap into that performance frequently by hammering the throttle and attacking winding backroads, the value proposition holds up.

But those who were attracted mostly by the looks or badge prestige might be better served saving $100,000+ by choosing a more mundane BMW SUV.

Ultimately the XM is focused squarely as a halo vehicle rather than a practical family hauler. And it succeeds wildly in that razor sharp niche.

Alternatives to Consider at This Lofty Pricing Spectrum

BMW X7 M60i – for $40,000+ less, the top spec X7 delivers a refined and mildly tuned 523 hp hybrid powertrain in a 3 row package.

BMW iX electric SUV – futuristic styling and up to 324 hp in the xDrive50 trim. Rated up to 315 miles of EV range for under $90,000.

Mercedes-AMG GLS63 – V8 biturbo power meets subtle sophistication in this performance version of the luxurious Mercedes 3 row SUV.

Rolls Royce Cullinan – only the iconic Cullinan luxury SUV can eclipse the opulence that BMW baked into the XM – for $100,000+ more.

Lamborghini Urus – starting around $230,000 delivers a track ready SUV performance with Audi underpinnings in one of supercar maker Lamborghini’s most successful vehicles ever.

Who is the XM Really For?

This special M brand model sits firmly in a narrowly defined niche within the SUV segment. It holds unique appeal for buyers that:

Demand monstrous power above all else
Appreciate exclusive M brand prestige
Have six figure SUV budgets
Will rarely use the cramped rear seat
Value latest tech gadgetry

For these folks seeking to crown the king of their luxury garage, the XM delivers. And leasing offers will help ease the brutal depreciation curve luxury BMWs are known for.

The Verdict? Sticker Shock But Worth It For Some

There’s no skirting around the fact that the BMW XM carries a monumental price tag. $160,000 buys a whole lot of car – easily two well equipped BMW X5s for most families.

But status seekers, BMW enthusiasts and those with the financial means looking to park something unattainable in their driveway could do far worse than the XM.

This special M division model combines the poise and driver engagement expected from the vaunted BMW M badge with the imposing presence and practicality inherent to an SUV form factor.

The plug-in hybrid powertrain adds both 450+ HP fury and 30+ miles of near silent electric cruising. Inside, the XM pampers driver and passengers with exotic materials and unique 3D audiovisual displays.

For the select buyers with the desire and budgets to justify acquisition, the BMW XM manages to back up its shocking price tag with the exclusivity, performance and luxury trappings to match.