Now we're talking. While the common or garden
5 Series models
are the ones that will actually sell, it's the fast stuff that PH is interested in. And while no 5 Series is exactly slow in 2017, if it comes with more power then it's probably more noteworthy, isn't it?
The view you're going to get
This is the new M550i xDrive, the first M Performance 5 Series with a petrol engine (remember the previous F10 M Performance car was the tri-turbo
M550d
). BMW describes it as both "a four-door sports car and the most dynamic business sedan around." Well, at least until the M5 arrives that is...
Power for the M550 comes from a "specifically modified" 4.4-litre twin-turbo V8, producing 462hp at 5,500rpm and 479lb ft from 1,800rpm. Thanks to that rear-biased xDrive all-wheel drive, 0-62mph is said to take 4.0 seconds and top speed is 155mph. BMW is already claiming a combined 31.7mpg too. The V8 is said to be both high revving and torquey, BMW adding that it "serves up a matchless blend of supreme performance, wonderfully precise driving dynamics and uncompromised everyday usability." Confidence in the product then!
Power from that V8 reaches the road via a recalibrated eight-speed auto and the xDrive all-wheel drive. The torque split is varied "as the situation demands", but always with a rear bias; no exact figures have been released yet, though given an AMG-E63's system is fully variable we would expect to see the same from BMW. It seems likely that similar technology will underpin the next M5, so it will be interesting to see how this M550i drives. Naturally is BMW is adamant that xDrive delivers "superlative driving performance and extremely precise handling."
"Out of the way puny 520d!"
Further tweaks to this M Performance model include M-specific tuning for the steering, M Sport brakes and an M Performance exhaust. The modest visual identifiers are the badges (though you'll delete those, won't you?), the Cerium Grey accents for the mirrors, kidney grille surrounds and intakes, a subtle M aero kit and the blue brake calipers. There's life in the fast and discreet German saloon yet!
The M550i xDrive will be shown to the world at the Detroit show in January ahead of joining the 5 Series range in March. Prices are yet to be announced, but we'll have a navy Touring just as soon as they arrive please. Finally, if all this M Performance talk has you hankering for a V8 5 Series, there's everything from a near-Shed E39 540i to a 550i GT (yes, really) currently available - take your pick!
