Manhart Turns The BMW XM Into A 888-HP Goliath

The modified BMW XM gains plenty of power and some extra visual spice – not that it needed more of the latter

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The BMW XM hasn’t been a big seller for the German brand, and last year, just over 7,200 examples were sold globally. Although we’ll have to wait a few more weeks before we learn how many were sold this year, things aren’t looking good, as during the first nine months of 2024, US sales were down 14.2%. Not deterred by the SUV’s rarity, Manhart has got its hands on yet another example and overhauled it with its MHXM 900 II package.

The name of the package hints at the power on tap, as the V8 now makes 900 PS, which works out to be 888 hp in old-school horsepower. That’s still a huge amount of grunt and is a big hike over the 738 hp mustered up by the flagship XM Label Red. Complementing the added horsepower is 885 lb-ft (1,200 Nm) of torque, or 147 lb-ft (200 Nm) more than standard.

Read: BMW And Kith’s Latest Collab Is An M1-Inspired XM

To achieve these gains, the German tuner has fitted its MHtronik powerbox. Shoppers can then choose between a full valve-control stainless steel exhaust or an Akrapovic slip-on system. Manhart also offers the option of removing the catalytic converters to improve flow, although this system falls foul of TUV rules and is only intended for international markets.

Lots of upgrades have also been made to the XM’s exterior. A black and gold finish is applied, making it reminiscent of other Manhart projects, including at the front splitter and around the air intakes. A set of massive 24-inch wheels have also been fitted and are wrapped in 295/30 front and 355/25 rear tires. Those rear tires are the same width as those of a Bugatti Chiron and should be enough to put all the power to the ground.

The same theme continues across the SUV’s rear end, including the tailpipe shrouds. There’s plenty of forged carbon fiber across the exterior as well. Gold-painted brake calipers and H&R lowering springs add to the dramatic design.

Manhart has made fewer alterations to the familiar BMW interior, although the steering wheel does get a new badge, and there are some extra carbon fiber parts.