You may be inclined to say that this is how BMW operates nowadays. However, that is not accurate, as it has some remarkably high-riding vehicles in its lineup, such as the X5 (and X5 M), which is arguably one of the most attractive in its category. On the other hand, models like the X6 and its smaller counterparts will never truly convince the car enthusiasts that they are worth it, just like XM.
Sharing many components with the largest X models out there, including the X7, X6, and X5, as well as the 8 Series and 7 Series flagship sedan, the BMW XM officially entered the market a little over a year ago. This occurred when production commenced at the South Carolina plant in the United States for global markets, and since then, the company has continuously expanded the range to include more members.
Since it is produced in America, it was only logical for BMW to sell it here. The local lineup consists of the standard XM and the Label, which have respective starting prices of $159,000 and $185,000. The former is equipped with a 4.4L twin-turbo V8 engine delivering 644 hp (653 ps/480 kW) and 590 lb-ft (800 Nm) of torque, with plug-in capabilities, enabling it to accelerate from zero to sixty mph (0 to 97 kph) in 4.1 seconds. The latter boasts over 738 hp (749 ps/551 kW) and 738 lb-ft (1,000 Nm) and is half a second quicker.
What does this information indicate? The base XM is slower than the more affordable X6 M, which starts at $127,200, and requires 3.7 seconds to reach 60 mph thanks to its 617 hp (626 ps/460 kW) engine. The X5 M is equally swift and slightly cheaper at $122,300 before destination charges. Even the smaller X4 M is faster at 3.9 seconds, and it comes with a $79,100 starting price. In fact, it is just as quick as the base M3 Sedan, whose 473 hp (480 ps/353 kW) twin-turbo straight-six engine allows it to accelerate to 60 mph in 4.1 seconds.
So much for the only independent M model in BMW’s lineup, right? That is indeed the case, as one can spend far less money on a faster vehicle from the same category, which also looks much better than the XM. We hate to reiterate ourselves, but we fail to see why anyone would choose it over something like an X5 M, a much more attractive option that costs less and is quicker. Let’s not forget that the competition (pun intended) also offers similar models, so you might want to explore Porsche’s, Audi’s, and Mercedes-AMG’s lineups before placing an order for an XM.
Since we have criticized it more than we intended, let’s move on to another modified version. This particular one comes from Manhart and includes a few exterior enhancements that the company has bundled together in a package they named Thor. The updates focus on the front, rear, and side attachments, including the extended side skirts, new diffuser, apron, and several other elements, with the redesigned hood essentially completing the transformation. All of these features can be ordered in carbon or forged carbon, and Manhart decided to add some yellow accents to the car’s black body.
Manhart has unveiled the Thor kit for the BMW XM, showcasing it on their official website and social media platforms. They have also hinted at upcoming additions to the rear bumper, such as carbon fiber exhaust tips, which will be revealed in the coming weeks. However, the cost of these upgrades has not been disclosed on their website.
If you are interested in obtaining this look for your XM, you can contact Manhart directly to inquire about pricing. Pre-ordering the kit will grant you a 12% discount, and installation is made easy with the use of fasteners and a special adhesive at the original equipment manufacturer (OEM) mounting points. This means that if you ever grow tired of the modified appearance, you can easily revert your BMW M super crossover back to its original state without any complications.
Although the stock BMW XM is already appealing, the Thor kit definitely adds more visual appeal. The question remains, would you choose to upgrade your XM with this kit? Alternatively, would you consider investing a significant amount of money into a different model? As previously mentioned, Manhart offers a wide range of options, and personally, I would opt for the X5 M as my preferred choice.
According to the Source autoevolution.com