2026 BMW XM Label First Look: Not to Label Things, But It's Now the Only XM
The Label was supposed to be an annual special edition, but BMW has made it the only choice for 2026 XM shoppers.
When BMW revealed the 2024 XM Label Red, it kicked off what was supposed to be a regular, annual release of “Labels” as special editions of the XM plug-in hybrid sport SUV. Then, just before it was set to launch, the “Red” part of its name was dropped, but BMW maintained that Labels would continue appearing each year alongside regular XMs. Now at the midpoint of 2025, the XM Label returns, but as a special edition no longer—per BMW, it's now the lone trim level available on the 2026 XM.
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With 738 hp and 738 lb-ft of torque between its 4.4-liter twin-turbo V-8 engine and electric motor, the 2026 XM Label remains BMW M's most powerful production vehicle on sale. When we tested the 2024 version (with the same power), it rocketed to 60 mph in just 3.4 seconds, two tenths of a second quicker than BMW's claim.
For 2026, BMW isn't changing the XM's performance claims, so you can expect the same blistering performance from the 2026 XM Label. To recap, the high-performance PHEV is normally limited to 155 mph, but an optional M Driver’s Package ups that limit to 175 mph. BMW has updated the throttle map, hopefully a move that addresses our complaints that the original XM's throttle pedal response felt jumpy and made modulating acceleration challenging.
Another sore spot is being addressed this year, too: Charging speeds. With the ability to plug in and charge, the 2024 XM Label really could have done with some faster charging to match the incredible road speed it's capable of. The 2026 XM Label ditches last year's 7.4-kW AC charge rate for a more competitive 11 kW. The battery's net capacity remains 19.2 kWh, so plugging into a Level 2 charger should result in faster refills. It’s a little disappointing BMW doesn't offer DC fast charging, which would be even quicker, as the battery pack is rated at 317 volts and DC charging could offer some additional charging options away from home (or, you know, at a racetrack to maintain peak performance). Regardless, with the 2026 XM's pack voltage and capacity unchanged from the 2024 version, we expect around the same 31 miles of all-electric driving at speeds up to 87 mph.
It will also come with impressive stopping power with a set of six-piston fixed front calipers clamping down on M Compound brake pads and rotors while the rears will use single-piston floating calipers on M Compound equipment. The body rides on a set of BMW Adaptive M dampers and coil springs with a double-wishbone front and five-link rear systems.
The suspension will also do its best to control a set of 23-inch 1096 M alloy wheels measuring 23x10 front and 23x11 rear with high-performance 275/35R23 and 315/30R23 tires, respectively. The new rollers will also sport a new Jet Black finish option, if the owner chooses. This new Jet Black wheel finish joins new exterior colors for the body in Frozen Tanzanite Blue metallic while a new “welcome light” animation will help make the standout XM Label continue to do so in the dark.
Inside, there will be three new colored themes through the BMW Individual program with Night Blue leather and Vintage Coffee accents, Black leather and Vintage Coffee accents, and Silverstone leather and Black accents. The comfort cushions for the rear seats will also match the selected leather surfaces, including the BMW Individual leather options we just mentioned. Otherwise, interior amenities remain the same as on the 2024 XM Label.
Pricing won’t be announced until closer to its production start, which is slated for August at BMWs Spartanburg plant in South Carolina. If you happen to be at the 24 Hours of Le Mans this weekend, you can see the 2026 BMW XM Label be unveiled live while the BMW M Hybrid V-8 racecar roars around the legendary endurance race in France.
Having experience in many forms of the automotive industry, Justin Banner has done more than just write about cars. For more than 15 years, he's had experience working as an automotive service technician—including a stint as a Virginia State Inspector—service advisor, parts sales, and aftermarket parts technical advisor (a fancy way of saying he helped you on the phone when you had trouble fitting your brakes over your aftermarket wheels and the like). Prior to his tenure as a full-time editor, Justin worked as a freelance writer and photographer for various publications and as an automotive content creator on YouTube. He’s also covered multiple forms of motorsports ranging from Formula Drift, drag racing, and time attack, to NASCAR, short course off-roading, and open desert racing. He's best known for breaking down complex technical concepts so a layperson can more easily understand why technologies, repairs, and parts should matter to them. At MotorTrend, Justin is part of the news team covering breaking news and topics while also working as a judge for MotorTrend Of the Year events and other major comparison tests.
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