Enlarge / There's certainly no ignoring the BMW XM's styling. But don't let it distract you from a competent chassis and powertrain. (credit: BMW) BMW provided flights from LA to Phoenix and back, plus two nights in a hotel, so we could drive the XM. Ars does not accept paid editorial content. There was a time when "M" cars were lauded not only for the dynamic capability bestowed upon them by BMW's motorsport division but also for their measured aesthetic.