BMW announces 5 Series M550d X-Drive

BMW has announced a more powerful version of their premium executive sedan, the 5 Series, globally. Called the M550d, this version of the 5 Series will be the most powerful diesel 5 Series offered so far by the Bavarian car maker.

While BMW has the flagship 5 Series in form of the M5, the M550d will form the second rung of M performance machines akin to the Mercedes E43 AMGs globally. The M550d is powered by the legendary 3.0-litre straight-six cylinder diesel engine that is also found in the BMW 530d M Sport sold in India. But in case of the M550d, the six-pot mill is boosted by four turbochargers to produce 400bhp of power and a whopping 760Nm of torque. It has two smaller turbochargers that provide boost almost from idling till the larger turbochargers take over from about 2500rpm. It also develops 19bhp more power as compared to its predecessor and the torque is up by 20Nm.

To transfer all this power on to the tarmac, the M550d is armed with the X-drive all-wheel drive system known for its rear bias adhering to the BMW DNA. The X-drive is fed by an eight-speed M Performance tuned torque converter gearbox. The M550d sits lower than the 550i by almost 10mm thanks to the M Sport tuned suspension. While the variable rack-and-pinion ration active steering is standard, dynamic damper control is optional. 

Visually, the M550d stands out with its M-styled bumpers, rear diffuser, side sills, blue brake callipers and a rear spoiler on the boot lid. It gets grey highlights on the trims and 19-inch alloy wheels as standard. On the inside, the M550d will come with M-spec leather interiors and all the bells and whistles associated with it.

BMW has launched this car for the European market only and there are almost no chances that it will go to the American markets. Which means, India is still a long way down and being a wagon, the chances go further down.