BMW Douses Rumours 6 Series Reboot And XM Discontinuation

Earlier in the week, rumours have swirled online alleging BMW's plans to axe the XM (left) and reboot the 6 Series (right).

BMW has shot down rumours swirling online alleging the marque’s plans of rebooting its 6 Series nameplate, as well as similar hearsay about its plans to axe the highly controversial XM model.

The former was widely touted online for a return as a 2026 model, whilst the latter was likely prompted by its seemingly slow sales pace.

“We feel it necessary to clarify that there are currently no plans to reintroduce the BMW 6 Series to the market for model year 2026, despite what is being widely reported in automotive media circles,” read BMW’s lengthy response to global site Carscoops.

The statement then continues with the firm saying it “made no official statement on the future of a successor to the BMW XM,” likely suggesting that said controversial M-badged plug-in hybrid (PHEV) model is here to stay for some time at least.

The third-gen 6 Series was offered in coupe, convertible, and four-door coupe GT forms, unlike its fourth-gen successor that came solely as a 5-door liftback GT.

Earlier this week, various online reports gained traction alleging that BMW seeks to revamp its line-up by axing several existing models and introducing new ones, followed by the electrification of existing options. Amongst the models named were the XM, as well as both the 6 Series and 8 Series.

It was widely touted that the reintroduction of the 6 Series could see it positioned as BMW's sole two-door, 2+2 model. Others indicated that BMW is likely to prioritise electric vehicles (EVs) over new internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles. 

"Coupes and convertibles are the smaller volume models, but their performance-oriented character gains from electrification. The remaining models in the lineup will be largely hybrid to lower emissions and keep the traditional BMW performance alive," reportedly claims one source.

Though controversial, the XM PHEV super-SUV is likely here to stay for some time still.

BMW last produced its 6 Series nameplate in fourth-generation (G32) 5-door liftback GT form in late 2023. Said iteration also marked a stark departure from its third-gen (F12) predecessor that came in sporty two-door coupe and convertible forms, plus a sleek four-door fastback.

As for the XM, the M division’s second-ever in-house model was widely reported to be on the chopping block with an all-electric successor ready. Reports further allege that the latter was initially slated for 2028 production, but this is clearly not the case based on BMW’s response.

The XM, the second stand-alone model spawned from BMW’s M division, arrived in late 2022 with less than stellar fanfare. Much of this stems from its controversial stance as a PHEV SUV. Despite this, BMW continues to position the XM in much of its branding efforts - i.e. as MotoGP’s safety car. KR