BMW Drops Base XM Model for 2026 – Here’s What You Get Now

BMW is shaking things up with its XM for 2026. The standard base model is no longer part of the lineup, leaving just the powerful XM Label with 738 horsepower as the only option. Along with this change, BMW has improved the charging capability for the hybrid system and introduced a fresh batch of exterior colors and interior trim themes.

The XM Label keeps the same gutsy setup under the hood—a twin-turbocharged V8 engine producing 577 horsepower paired with an electric motor nestled between the engine and the transmission. Together, the system delivers 738 pound-feet of torque to all four wheels through an eight-speed automatic transmission. BMW claims it can go from 0 to 60 miles per hour in just 3.6 seconds. The top speed is electronically limited to 155 miles per hour, or 175 miles per hour with the optional M Driver’s Package.

Previously, opting for the XM Label—known before as the Label Red—meant a noticeable boost in performance over the standard 644-horsepower version. It also included red exterior accents that made it stand out. But for 2026, those bold red trim pieces are gone, replaced by subtler red-accented exterior badges.

BMW now offers more color options, including Individual Frozen Tanzanite Blue metallic, and lets buyers go for black 23-inch wheels or 22-inch ones at no extra charge. Inside, there are three new leather themes to pick from: Individual Night Blue full Merino leather with Vintage Coffee accents, Individual Black full Merino leather with Vintage Coffee accents, and Individual Silverstone extended Merino leather with black accents.

The plug-in hybrid setup remains the same, still relying on a 19.2 kilowatt-hour battery pack. The only mechanical change is the onboard charger, which now supports an 11 kilowatt charging rate—an upgrade from the previous 7.4 kilowatt rate. While BMW has not given a new estimate for full recharge time, it is expected to be faster than the old 3 hour and 15 minute figure.

Electric-only range stays the same at 30 miles, which is still a useful number for quick errands or short commutes without touching a drop of fuel.

The 2026 XM Label will be revealed on Saturday, June 14 at the 24 Hours of Le Mans in France. Production will begin this August at BMW’s Spartanburg plant in South Carolina. Although pricing is not yet announced, expect a small increase from the 2025 model’s $187,875 starting price.