The 2024 BMW XM Label Red, a high-performance version of BMW’s first plug-in hybrid SUV, suffered an inauspicious appearance at the 101st Pikes Peak International Hill Climb in Colorado Springs, Colorado, on Sunday, June 26.
The 6,000-pound machine, a preproduction model, entered the race’s exhibition category as BMW hoped to show off the athletic prowess of the new flagship beast in its growing electrified stable. However, the demonstration was short-lived, as the SUV crashed and became undrivable and unable to climb the mountain.
The XM Label Red, which the Bavarian automaker calls “the most powerful SUV by BMW M,” is capable of generating 738 horsepower, 738 lb-ft of torque, a 3.7-second 0-60 time, and a potential 175-mph top speed. None of that mattered when the SUV “suffered a serious wreck damaged shortly after the start line … after the vehicle struck a tree,” according to Car and Driver.
No footage of the crash was captured, but a YouTube livestream of the race showed the remains of the SUV carried away on a flatbed truck. Coverage begins at 4 hours, 50 minutes, 34 seconds. No information on the cause of the crash was released.
The XM Label Red driver, Matt Mullins, a PPIHC “Rookie” but the chief driving instructor at the BMW Performance Driving School and a professional driver for film and commercials, walked away from the crash seemingly unharmed. The Colorado Springs Gazette reported that Mullins returned to hugs from his family and racing team. While he left the course in good spirits, Mullins was understandably mournful about the vehicle’s loss.
The 2024 BMW XM Label Red is expected to go on sale later this year as production starts in August; the anticipated base price is $172,550. Slightly less spunky but no less luxurious 2023 BMW XM models that can travel 30 miles and reach a top speed of 87 mph solely on electric power are on sale now.
