Photo gallery - BMW M550i xDrive

Sleeker and sedate as compared to the BMW M5, the new M550i XDrive sits as the range-topper in the new BMW 5 Series line-up.The new model gets a host of design and mechanical upgrades and the vehicle itself offers a fine balance of functionality between a four-door sports car and a dynamic business sedan.

For the record, the BMW M550i is powered by a 4.4-litre twin-turbo V8 engine that generates 462bhp of power and 650Nm of torque. Mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission with an all-wheel drive system, this vehicle is capable of accelerating from 0-100kph in less than 4.0 seconds and top speed is electronically restricted to 250kph. 

As the M550i xDrive comes under the intermediate M Performance sub-brand it gets ample sporty highlights that separates it from the regular 5 Series range. It gets the M aerodynamic package, which includes an M rear spoiler with Gurney flap on the boot lid and accentuates the sporty, dynamic lines of the new BMW 5 Series.

The exterior mirror caps, the kidney grille surround, the special M Performance bars on the front air intake and the two Air Breathers at the sides all sport the exclusive cerium grey metallic finish. The M sports exhaust system gets exclusive tailpipe embellishers in Black chrome on the left and right. 

As for the interior, it gets M sports upholstery in black Dakota leather with blue contrast stitching, along with the latest version of the M sports steering wheel, M design floor mats and special interior trim strips and pedals made from aluminium for that sporty quotient. 

The electronics in the car help the driver with Real Time Traffic Information (RTTI) for route-planning purposes, and recommends departing earlier if a detour has to be made due to traffic hold-ups. Additionally, the ParkNow feature allows to make reservation and also make payment for parking spaces.

In terms of safety, the BMW M550i xDrive comes with a crossing traffic warning system and active Lane Change Warning, which uses steering inputs to avert an impending collision. These come in addition to standard safety equipment like multiple airbags and ABS.