June 2025 – Australia:
BMW has unveiled the 2026 XM for the Australian market, consolidating its flagship plug-in hybrid SUV range into a single variant – and delivering a substantial price cut in the process.
The new model will arrive before the end of the year with a new list price of $309,900 before on-road costs, a $34,300 reduction from the previous mid-spec XM Label. This updated variant will replace both the former entry-level XM ($302,200) and the range-topping XM Red Label ($349,900).
One grade, same power, new upgrades
Despite the trimmed line-up, BMW Australia has confirmed the 2026 XM retains the same equipment levels as the outgoing Label variant – with a few notable upgrades. Central to its appeal is the unchanged 4.4-litre twin-turbo V8 plug-in hybrid powertrain, producing 550kW and 1000Nm, making it the most powerful production BMW to date.
This high-output system enables the XM to sprint from 0–100km/h in just 3.8 seconds, while top speed is listed at 290km/h – more than capable of handling autobahn demands.
Faster charging, same electric range
BMW has improved charging efficiency with the 2026 XM by increasing AC charging capacity from 7.4 kW to 11 kW. As a result, its 25.7 kWh battery can now be fully recharged in 2 hours 45 minutes, cutting down previous charging time by 1 hour 15 minutes.
Electric-only range remains unchanged at 98km (claimed), while combined fuel consumption is rated at 2.7L/100km on the official test cycle.
New colours, bigger wheels and more personalisation
The updated XM will be offered with Frozen Tanzanite Blue paintwork as a no-cost option, expanding the SUV’s exterior palette. Buyers will also have access to an enhanced personalisation program, including:
- Three new interior leather colour combinations, including Night Blue with Vintage Leather
- 22-inch alloy wheels as standard, with four 23-inch wheel options offered at no additional charge
- High-gloss red or black brake calipers to accompany the larger wheels
Sales performance: XM plays a niche role
While not a volume leader, the XM continues to occupy an image-focused position within BMW’s local line-up. The SUV accounted for 144 sales in 2024, and 50 units delivered by the end of May 2025.
BMW Australia, however, remains on a strong growth trajectory overall. The marque posted record local sales in 2024, surpassing Mercedes-Benz, Audi and Lexus, driven by rising EV uptake. The i4 Gran Coupe, notably, outsold the entire Mercedes-Benz C-Class range.
The brand’s EV sales jumped by 160.4 per cent year-on-year, helping BMW secure its position as Australia’s fourth-best-selling electric vehicle brand, trailing only Tesla, BYD, and MG.
At a glance: 2026 BMW XM specifications
| Feature | Details |
| Powertrain | 4.4L twin-turbo V8 + electric motor (PHEV) |
| Power Output | 550kW |
| Torque | 1000Nm |
| 0–100km/h | 3.8 seconds |
| Top Speed | 290km/h |
| Battery Capacity | 25.7kWh |
| Electric Driving Range (Claimed) | 98km |
| Combined Fuel Consumption (Claimed) | 2.7L/100km |
| Charging | 11kW AC (2h 45m full charge) |
| New Exterior Colour | Frozen Tanzanite Blue (no-cost) |
| Wheel Options | 22″ standard, four 23″ designs (no-cost) |
| Brake Calliper Options | High-gloss red or black |
With its restructured pricing, updated equipment, and uncompromised performance, the 2026 BMW XM aims to remain a high-performance halo in the brand’s growing electrified portfolio.
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