BMW has introduced another variant to its G30 5 Series portfolio with the M550d xDrive, a new M Performance model that is offered in Sedan and Touring (seen here) guise. BMW says the oil burning alternative to the M550i xDrive packs the “world’s most powerful six-cylinder diesel engine in the automotive area,” so let’s start there.
The 3.0 litre in-line six mill features BMW’s TwinPower Turbo Technology with not one, not two, but four turbochargers. Two low-pressure turbochargers are new here, replacing the previous large-sized third turbocharger.
Both units, along with one of the two high-pressure turbos are permanently powered during travel, with the second high-pressure turbo only kicking in at engine speeds of over 2,500 rpm. As a result of this multi-stage turbocharging, you get 400 hp at 4,400 pm and 760 Nm of torque from 2,000 rpm, which is 19 hp and 20 Nm more than its predecessor.
Drive is sent to all four wheels via an eight-speed Steptronic sports transmission and xDrive all-wheel drive system. In terms of performance, the M550d xDrive will accelerate from a standstill to 100 km/h in just 4.4 seconds (4.6 seconds for the Touring), and will hit a maximum top speed of 250 km/h (electronically limited).
As for efficiency, the car will consume as little as 5.4 litres per 100 km, and CO2 emissions are as low as 142 g/km. These figures represent an 11% reduction from the previous-generation model as well.
Similar to the M550i, the M550d comes with M sports suspension and a 10 mm reduction in ride height compared to a standard 5 Series. This can be further enhanced with the optional Adaptive M Suspension Professional pack that regulates the response of the dampers to provide higher driving dynamics.
Styling wise, the M550d is fitted with the M aerodynamic package, while the exterior mirror covers, the kidney grille surround and M Performance bars, and the two Air Breathers are all finished in Cerium Grey metallic.
Other details include the exhaust system with M Performance specific twin tailpipe trims in dark chrome, and brake calipers finished in blue metallic with the M inscription on them. Standard wheels here are 19-inch Double Spoke 664 M light alloy wheels in Cerium Grey (245/40 front and 275/35 rear tyres).
BMW also offers two 20-inch options – Double Spoke Design 668 M or BMW Individual light alloy wheels with VSpoke Design 759 in Bicolor. Both wheel sizes are paired with 245/35 tyres at the front and 275/30 at the rear.
On the interior, the door sills are illuminated and bear the ‘M550d’ inscription on them, and you get several M goodies like the pedals, footrest, leather steering wheel and specific instrument display. Optional items here include M sports seats with Dakota leather or fabric/Alcantara and an M sports leather steering wheel.
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