Sports utility vehicles, better known as SUVs, have been leading the pack as one of the most preferred vehicle types out there, skyrocketing in popularity in recent years. The additional storage space, driving at a greater and more commanding height, larger seating capability, and overall versatility of an SUV makes it an obvious choice for many. For the year 2023, renowned automakers like BMW and Maserati have innovatively taken the premium SUV segment up a notch and these offerings are nothing short of enviable. Let’s take a look.
BMW XM
Design: The first-ever BMW M GmbH high-performance Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV), BMW XM, features an electrifying exterior equipped with the M Aerodynamics Package and M High-Gloss Shadow Line. A large kidney grille with hallmark M horizontal double louvres distinguishes the front end, furnished with illuminated kidney grille contours and accompanied by striking nightgold-coloured trims bordering the window line. At the rear, flared wheel arches take centerstage alongside two twin tailpipes arranged vertically—a unique twist to a signature M feature.
Power: As the first M model to have a plug-in hybrid powertrain, the XM boasts an impressive total system output of 653 PS (644 hp or 480 kW) and 800 Nm of torque, completing a century sprint in just 4.3 seconds. Under the hood, a 4.4 litre twin-turbo V8 powers its M Hybrid system, facilitating 489 PS (483 hp or 360 kW) and 650 Nm of torque. Meanwhile, the XM’s underfloor-mounted lithium-ion battery has an energy capacity of 25.7 kWh, taking a maximum AC input of 7.4 kW to complete a charge from 0 to 100 per cent in just 4 hours and 15 minutes.
Interior: Complementing its exterior on the inside of the SAV is a luxurious cabin accentuated by the BMW Curved Display and Walknappa vintage leather on the door panels as well as sections on the instrument panel. The XM—decked out with an Alcantara headliner with a prismatic 3D structure that contributes to a unique sense of space—also maintains a bold contrast between the cockpit and the M Lounge rear that lends an exclusive and inviting lounge feel.
Price (on the road, without insurance): RM1,398,800.00
For more information, visit the website.
Maserati Grecale GT Hybrid
Design: Completing the Trident brand’s fullest SUV range is the 2023 Grecale in a GT Hybrid version, retaining a bold and sleek styling with a low and imposing grille. It features a protruding nose at the front, similar to that of the MC20, coupled with a visually fluid body and boomerang tail lights inspired by the Giugiaro 3200 GT in the rear. The Grecale GT Hybrid is available in four colours, namely Bronzo Opaco (bronze), Blu Intenso (metallic blue), Bianco Astro (metallic grey), and Bianco (white solid).
Power: For the Malaysian market, the Grecale GT Hybrid is equipped with a 2-litre turbocharged four-cylinder mild hybrid engine capable of delivering 300 PS at 5,750rpm with a peak torque of 450Nm at 2,000rpm to 4,000rpm. This is paired with a 48-V mild hybrid, offering reduced fuel consumption without compromising on performance, going from 0 to 100km/h in 5.6 seconds.
Interior: Urban, minimal, and contemporary, this SUV is distinctively roomy and comfortable, embellished with best-in-class features including a 535L boot space, an in-car experience managed by the Maserati Intelligent Assistant (MIA) Multimedia system, and extensive use of fine materials such as wood, carbon fibre, and premium Saffiano leather throughout the cabin. The result is a sophisticated yet clean aesthetic, punctuated by laser processing reinterpreting the iconic Maglia Milano, taken from fine jewellery and watchmaking.
Price (with SST): From RM598,000.00
For more information, visit the website.
Range Rover L460 (2023)
Design: Range Rover’s crown jewel of luxury SUVs has reached its fifth generation with the debut of the L460. Compared to its predecessor, the L460 appears more pared back and refined, particularly at the rear where it is updated with the world’s first hidden-until-lit tail lights. Rounding off its profile is a soft-sloping roofline and updated waistline. As for the front, the L460 features new Digital LED headlamps and daytime running lamps, flanked by a midsized grille with heavier borders and a new mesh insert.
Power: Primed to be a game-changer in its segment, the L460 is powered by the P530 powertrain featuring a 4.4-litre turbocharged V8 petrol engine delivering 530 PS and 750 Nm of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive system. This launches the car from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.6 seconds, capped at a top speed of 250 km/h.
Interior: Echoing the sleek and minimalist theme on its exterior, the inside of the L460 comes with leather upholstery as a standard, with the possibility to upgrade to leather-free interiors fusing Ultrafabrics and Kvadrat wool blend. One significant highlight of the five-seater configuration of the SUV offered in the Malaysian market includes a 13.1-inch curved glass floating touchscreen, linked to the Pivi Pro infotainment system that is combined with a control panel for the climate system.
Price (with SST): RM2,480,000.00
For more information, visit the website.
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