2018 BMW M550i xDrive to Hit 60 MPH in Under 4.0 Seconds

BMW has introduced the new M550i xDrive as the top-of-the-line performance model of the current 5 Series lineup. The car arrives in U.S. dealerships in spring 2017.

The 4.4-liter twin-turbo V-8 of the 2018 BMW M550i xDrive comes equipped with twin-scroll turbochargers, a precision injection system with Valvetronic fully variable valve lift, and Double Vanos variable camshaft timing control, all of which add up to a maximum output of 456 hp and 480 lb-ft of torque. This allows the M550i xDrive to hit 60 mph in under 4.0 seconds and propel it onward to an electronically limited top speed of 155 mph, BMW says.

Coupled to the V-8 is the same eight-speed automatic transmission found in other 5 Series cars. However, the M550i xDrive’s transmission has been tuned to provide a more dynamic experience, eliciting a faster engagement using shift paddles located on the steering wheel. Additionally, the M550i xDrive, as the name implies, comes standard with BMW’s xDrive intelligent all-wheel-drive system that uses torque vectoring to determine exactly where power is sent—and can send it independently to any wheel it chooses. Normally, it is rear biased to give the M550i a more sporty character.

Furthermore, the M550i xDrive includes a host of items from the brand’s M Performance division. Mechanically, that includes an adaptive suspension, standard M Sport brakes and calipers, and an M-Sport steering rack tune that includes both SPORT and SPORT+ for more “crisp handling and precise driving characteristics.” Visually, the M550i receives M badging, an M aerodynamic kit, including an M rear trunk spoiler, and an M Sport exhaust system.

It also features a variety of driver assistance systems, including Active Cruise Control, Active Lane Keeping Assistant, and Evasion Aid, along with a host of other optional safety equipment.