BMW XM teases first pure M car since the M1

There’s not much to see just yet, though enough to read the writing on the wall. Big BMWs are getting even bigger grilles and smaller headlights to emphasize that bigness. The snout of the XM, which is all we can see so far, checks out with the snout of next-generation BMW 7 Series prototypes that have been seen testing in recent months. Even the M4 and X7 are about to be out-grilled...

The XM is thought to represent a number of firsts and milestone moments for BMW. One of which is that the production version is rumoured to be carrying the numberless name forward, the first for a BMW since the 1960s. That also means that it’ll be the first bespoke model to BMW M since the M1 43 years ago.

There will be a first under the bonnet for the XM, too. The prevailing thought is that the 4.4-litre BMW M V8 will have its horsepower paired with a substantial electric motor, for a system output of over 750PS. Remember we said the Urus would have something to think about with the XM? That also means the upcoming next-generation Range Rover that’s shipping with M5 power won’t have a shot at being the fastest BMW-powered SUV.

So what do you think of the prospect of the XM? Is it another rung on the bloated over-tyred, over-powerful SUV ladder, or something more? Whatever there is to know and see, all will be revealed on the 29th of November at Art Basel Miami, where it will be on display from 2-4 December.