Official: BMW XM Label Red launches with 738bhp

If the all-new BMW XM – the brand's first bespoke M car since the M1 supercar more than 50 years ago – wasn't enough for you then the German brand has released an ultra-exclusive XM Label Red model, boasting more power and performance, plus a special design theme available on an even rarer XM Label Red Edition car. Prices start from £171,000, more than BMW has ever charged for a production car before. 

Both BMW XM Label Red models feature a tuned version of the 4.4-litre turbo-turbo V8 petrol engine fitted to the regular XM, with the motor's output tuned from 482bhp to 577bhp, while peak torque has risen by 100Nm to 750Nm in total from the combustion element of the powertrain.

This, however, is supplemented by an electric motor, which means that compared with the standard XM the Label Red produces an extra 94bhp and 200Nm more torque in total, taking the performance SUV's output to 738bhp and 1,000Nm. The regular BMW XM already comes with 644bhp and 800Nm of torque, making it more powerful than a Lamborghini Huracan STO and Porsche 911 Turbo S.

Despite the XM’s significant mass, this is enough for a 0-62mph time of 3.8 seconds and a top speed of 180mph with the optional M Driver's Package fitted. It’s all achieved with the aid of an eight-speed automatic transmission and BMW's M xDrive all-wheel drive system with launch control. 

Alongside this impressive performance, the XM Label Red is still capable of up to 52 miles of electric range thanks to its 25.7kWh lithium-ion battery that feeds an e-motor. The firm says that the battery can be replenished from empty to full in four hours and 15 minutes thanks to its on-board 7.4kW charger, but unlike some high-end plug-in hybrid, the XM doesn't feature DC charging.

Alongside the configurable driving modes that feature on the standard XM, BMW says that the Label Red features “model-specific chassis tuning” that includes the brand's adaptive M suspension Professional package (put simply, adaptive dampers and active anti-roll control), as well as rear-wheel steering.

However, key to the Label Red's appeal – for some, at least – will be its appearance, which BMW says offers “extrovert design with exclusive details”. These details include the car's signature trim strip around the windows finished in Toronto Red metallic, although the firm says a black metallic option is also available. 

The Label Red's badges and the inserts for its standard-fit 22-inch alloy wheels are also finished in red, while the car boasts a red/black theme for its interior, which boasts the same in-car tech features and infotainment set-up as its standard sibling.

Production of the XM Label Red edition will begin in August, with prices starting from £170,860, making it the most expensive production BMW ever sold – but the brand is also offering an even more exclusive XM Label Red Edition, limited to just 500 units globally.

This model features red inserts for the kidney grilles and red edging on the diffuser, as well as a Frozen Carbon Black metallic body colour, while inside Edition models feature a “1 of 500” plaque to signal its exclusivity.

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