The BMW M550 XDrive Bursts Onto The Scene

2018 BMW M550 xDrive (Credit: BMW)

Has BMW become too soft? Maybe, but the automaker wants to convince you the new M550 xDrive is a hardcore performance sedan you want.

One of the most impressive things about this new model is the engine. The 4.4-liter V-8 M Performance TwinPower Turbo engine throttles out 456 horsepower and 480 lb.-ft. of torque. Those are impressive figures. BMW says that’s enough to make it the fastest 5 Series ever. An exact 0 to 60 time isn’t available, yet, but it’s supposed to be under 4.0 seconds. Top speed is limited to 155 mph.

The setup also includes a Steptronic Sport 8-speed transmission. It’s specially tuned for performance, with shift patterns customized to the V-8. Unfortunately, this means we won’t be getting a version with a third pedal. That move alone will turn off some enthusiasts.

Of course, this car comes with BMW’s all-wheel-drive system, xDrive. It has a rear-wheel bias, so you get a sportier feel than with some systems.

Adding to the car’s sportiness are plenty of M performance parts, which likely will have M logos placed conspicuously on them, so everyone will know you don’t drive a regular 5 Series. Among them is an aero kit, 19- or 20-inch wheels, an exhaust system and illuminated door sills.

We’ll see the 2018 BMW M550 xDrive hit dealerships in the spring of next year. Will this help revitalize the brand’s image? Only time will tell.