BMW XM concept teased; previews M division SUV

BMW M will soon unwrap an all-new high-performance SUV, which will be the performance division's first bespoke model since the M1 supercar of 1978. Previewed ahead of its official unveiling on November 29, the new arrival is described as “the most expressive statement in almost 50 years of BMW M”.

• The MX Concept will be the first bespoke M model since the M1
• Expected to use 760hp, hybridised 4.4-litre V8 engine
• First BMW to not have a number in its name in over 50 years

BMW MX concept: what is it?

The BMW MX concept showcases a new front-end design for BMW's luxury class models that seem to have an even larger grille than those adorning the X7 and 7 Series. Narrow, angular headlight clusters and an aero-focused lower bumper are among its other visible features.

Previously, the new flagship was thought to take the X8 M moniker, but BMW has confirmed that the concept will be called XM – making it the first BMW to not have a number in its name since the Isetta bubble car and Neue Klasse saloons of the 1950s and 1960s.

Previous spy shots of what is thought to be the XM reveal it to be comparable in size to the X7, albeit with a more rakish roofline and chunkier D-pillar – potentially allowing for a third row of seats.

BMW MX concept: expected powertrain

As reported by our sister publication Autocar UK, the M-badged SUV is tipped to use a hybridised version of the twin-turbocharged 4.4-litre petrol V8 engine that is present in the brand's current most powerful models. A total system output of 760hp is on the cards, making this substantially more powerful than even the M5 CS – the current head of the M division's line-up.

The XM, developed under the Project Rockstar codename, will reportedly pair its V8 with a 200hp electric motor, boosting performance substantially while reducing emissions.

Now that it has been confirmed as an M-only model, the new SUV is less likely to borrow other engines from the X7. The latter comes with a choice of mild-hybridised petrol and diesel six-cylinder units and a 530hp, petrol V8.