Yes, The BMW XM Still Exists, And It’s Getting An Update In 2026

BMW wanted to try something new with the XM, creating the first-ever, M-developed SUV, but also a flagship for BMW’s X line of sport utility vehicles. The XM also happens to be the most powerful M-badged vehicle in the history of the brand, a mechanical monster powered by both an internal combustion engine (ICE) and plug-in hybrid technology, packing over 700 combined horsepower. Its powertrain was then carried over to the current BMW M5.

Unfortunately, due to its controversial styling, astronomical price, and questionable positioning in the market, the XM didn’t exactly do well for BMW. As of March 2025, it was dead last in BMW’s global sales. But none of that is preventing BMW from giving the XM a second chance. For 2026, the SUV, with a face that only a mother would love, is “sharpening its focus”, and undergoing a mid-cycle update. Here’s what to expect.

The 2026 BMW XM Is Now Offered In A Single Trim Level

The big highlight for the XM is a trimming down of the available versions. Moving forward, BMW will only sell the XM in the Label trim level. But while narrowed down, the XM goes a step further in the available customization options, both inside and out. For instance, BMW added a new available paint color within its Individual line of hues: Frozen Tanzanite Blue (pictured here). New Jet Black 23-inch wheels, called Style 1096 M, are also available.

The XM always put the emphasis on its cabin decor and experience, and for 2026, it pushes that envelope even further through new Night Blue Full Merino leather, which is combined with what BMW calls vintage coffee accents. It’s all very lounge-like, with rear comfort cushions that match the seating surfaces, but that also now come standard. Here’s a quick list of the new interior color and material combinations offered for the updated BMW XM:

• BMW Individual Night Blue full Merino leather with vintage coffee accents.
• BMW Individual black full Merino leather with vintage coffee accents.
• BMW Individual Silverstone extended Merino leather with black accents.

The BMW XM Remains BMW’s Most Powerful Vehicle

What doesn’t change is the plug-in-hybrid beast that lies underneath the XM’s hood, allowing this SUV to remain the horsepower king within BMW’s lineup, including the almighty M5. The main ICE is BMW’s well-documented twin-turbocharged 4.4-liter V-8.

On its own, it pumps out an impressive 577 horsepower and 553 lb-ft of torque. A permanent-magnet AC motor was then squeezed between the V8 and the eight-speed automatic transmission. It adds 194 horsepower and 207 lb-ft to the party. The end result is a staggering 738 combined horsepower and 738 lb-ft of twist, allowing a 0-60 MPH time of 3.6 seconds, as per BMW.

2026 BMW XM Technical Specifications

A 19.2-kWh lithium-ion battery, sitting underneath the XM’s floor, allows the electric motor to run independently for longer periods. This transforms the XM into an electric vehicle (EV) capable of 31 miles of range on a single charge. While on the topic of charging, BMW has bumped the XM’s integrated charger for AC level two home charging from 7.4 to 11 kW.

BMW says that the 2026 XM will be officially revealed on June 14 at the famed 24 Hours of Le Mans race, where it’ll be competing with the M Hybrid V8 race car in the FIA World Endurance Championship. Production for the new XM will begin at its Spartanburg, South Carolina plant in August. Pricing will be announced closer to its arrival in U.S. and Canadian dealers this fall.