2024 BMW XM Label Red Packs 738 Horsepower, Costs Over $250K
BMW today introduced the new 2024 XM Label Red, its most powerful road-going M model ever and a higher-performance variant of the XM plug-in hybrid crossover that we tested in Arizona a few weeks ago.
As the name suggests, the vehicle stands out with available Toronto Red Metallic accents on the badges, grille frame, window band, wheels and rear diffuser. However, the biggest difference can be found under the hood.
Conceptually similar to the powertrain found in the new BMW M Hybrid V8 endurance race car, the combination of the twin-turbo 4.4-litre V8 and permanently excited synchronous electric motor generates a total of 738 horsepower and 738 lb-ft. of torque, an increase of 94 horsepower and 148 lb-ft. over the standard XM.
BMW claims 0-100 km/h acceleration in 3.8 seconds—one tenth of a second slower than the 2023 M4 CSL coupe. Top speed is electronically limited to 282 km/h with the standard M Driver’s Package.
The high-voltage lithium-ion battery integrated into the underbody has a net energy content of 19.2 kWh and enables an estimated zero-emission range of about 50 km. The XM Label Red also can achieve 140 km/h in electric mode, with power delivery enhanced by BMW IconicSounds Electric, which was developed in collaboration between BMW and film score composer Hans Zimmer.
Unsurprisingly, the eight-speed M Steptronic transmission and M xDrive all-wheel drive system have been reprogrammed to account for the extra power. The latter is rear-biased for superior agility, especially in 4WD Sport mode. There’s also a 4WD Sand mode (available with stability control fully deactivated) for driving over dunes and similar surfaces—because apparently the XM Label Red isn’t just for paved roads.
Other performance goodies include Adaptive M Suspension Professional, Integral Active 4-Wheel Steering and M Sport compound brakes with six-piston front callipers. The vehicle is fitted as standard with 23-inch light-alloy wheels, with 22-inch wheels available as a no-cost option. Oh, and customers will be able to choose from more than 50 BMW Individual special paint finishes.
A black and red motif extends to the interior. The distinctive three-dimensional roofliner (with 100 built-in LEDs) and the trim for the body pillars are finished in black, while Fiona Red is used to highlight the diamond-shaped upper sections of the seatbacks and the integrated headrests of the front seats and outer rear seats.
Red contrast stitching is used on the black surfaces of the seats, instrument panel, door trim and centre console, and the air vents have red accents, too.
Production of the 2024 BMW XM Label Red will begin in August at the Spartanburg plant in South Carolina, starting with the 500 global units of the First Edition (the one with the most red accents and a Frozen Carbon Black body). Canadian pricing is set at $259,000 excluding options.
Now, if we could just find a way to bring together the XM Label Red, Lamborghini Urus Performante, Ferrari Purosangue, Aston Martin DBX 707 and Porsche Cayenne Turbo GT for at least a drag race, that’d be awesome. Who wouldn’t want to see that?