2 BMW Models That May Be Worth Waiting For
BMW is a highly recognizable name. Many consumers crave to own one of the German automaker’s creations, but most can’t afford these high-performance cars. Whether or not Bimmer fans have the funds, two upcoming BMW models will leave enthusiasts drooling.
BMW has a fascinating history
Many automakers have roots in the racing world. BMW isn’t one of them.
The brand began as part of the aircraft company Rapp-Motorenwerke GmbH. Originally known as Bayerische Motoren Werke GmbH, BMW designed motors for the German military air fleet starting in 1913.
Next, the company shifted its attention toward railway engineering. Soon, BMW was making motorcycles. Not until the 1920s did the German automaker begin designing cars, the first of which was the 3/15 PS.
Since then, BMW has continued to grow. Now it’s one of the most popular luxury brands in the auto world. And when it releases a new vehicle, it commands attention.
A new hybrid BMW model will spice up the lineup
The BMW i8 M hasn’t been developed yet. So, why should you wait for it? For one thing, it could be the future of BMW, Car and Driver says.
To be clear, the automaker isn’t calling this car the i8 M. C/D coined the term because its reviewers like the sound of it. Plus, it’s a souped-up version of the retired i8, so the moniker makes sense.
We don’t have many details yet, but what we do know it’s highly promising. The so-called i8 M will be a hybrid that BMW claims will get up to 62 miles of pure electric mileage. Of course, the EPA hasn’t rated it because the vehicle hasn’t debuted yet, so we’ll have to wait for confirmation on that one.
We also know the i8 M will pack a turbocharged four-cylinder engine harnessing 591 hp. Technology such as advanced driver assists and infotainment features are unknown because BMW highly suspects they’ll change greatly by the time the i8 M comes out sometime in 2024.
The coupe is expected to start at about $160,000, while the convertible roadster will likely cost around $180,000.
Another BMW model to anticipate is the 2023 XM
Most BMW models are identifiable at a glance, even without the iconic blue and white badge. But you likely won’t be able to do that with the 2023 BMW XM.
The latest SUV to join the lineup features sharp lines that mark a stark departure from the usual smooth, fluid curves for which BMW is well known. Car and Driver went so far as to call the new styling “aggressive.”
The XM will be another hybrid, with an expected twin-turbocharged 4.4-liter V8 producing 644 hp. A higher trim level will make 750 hp. C/D believes this BMW model will be able to go from 0 to 60 mph in a mere 3.5 seconds.
As for electric range, BMW has tossed around an estimate of 30 miles. Still, expect many changes to the 2023 BMW XM before it hits showroom floors, so we aren’t sure what the interior will look like.
However, one thing is for sure. You’ll have to pay a pretty penny for the latest BMW SUV. The starting price is expected to hover around $125,000.