Pricing regime for monster M models announced.

JUST $10 change from $340,000 will buy the most prestigious version of the most powerful production BMW ever sold in New Zealand – but you can save $5700 buying the ‘regular’ one.

That’s the pricing regime announced for the BMW XM Label Red and Label Red Edition, the even higher-performance version of the M performance division's first standalone car since the M1 of 1978-81, and its first plug-in hybrid.

With the Label Red editions the 4.4-litre twin-turbocharged petrol V8 and electric motor create 550kW power and 1000Nm torque – big uplift from the standard XM, which has a ‘mere’ 480kW/800Nm.

The boost makes lends the Red Labels a 0-100kmh sprint time of 3.8 seconds – half a second quicker than the standard XM.

All XMs run rear-biased variable all-wheel drive, a limited-slip rear differential, and adaptive suspension but the Label Red has active roll stabilisation – which employs small electric motors to inhibit body roll – and M Sport brakes with six-piston front and single-piston rear calipers.

The Label Red treatment also delivers black exterior highlights on the grille, side windows, bumpers and 22- or 23-inch alloy wheels.

Not exclusive enough? Then spend up on a XM Label Red Edition, a limited count machine: A 500-car global production run, from which New Zealand has secured five examples.

These take Frozen Carbon Black matte paint, more red exterior accents, unique alloy wheels, extended red and black leather upholstery, and a plaque in the cabin.

BMW New Zealand’s plans for the cars, including intention to have them here later this year, comes ahead of the types’ full unveiling at the Shanghai motor show, on April 18.