BMW Launches High-Performance M5 and M550i xDrive Models Based on the 5 Series
CAR / NEWS
October 1, 2020

BMW Launches High-Performance M5 and M550i xDrive Models Based on the 5 Series

BMW M5 | BMW M5

BMW M5 Competition | BMW M5 Competition

BMW M550i xDrive | BMW M550i xDrive

BMW Launches High-Performance M5 and M550i xDrive Models Based on the 5 Series

On September 29, BMW announced the new M5, a high-performance model based on the refreshed 5 Series, and the new M550i xDrive, a performance model, and began sales on the same day.

Text by HARA Akira

0-100km/h in 3.4 seconds

The new M5 measures 4,990mm in length, 1,905mm in width, and 1,480mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2,980mm and a curb weight of 1,940kg. Its powertrain is a 4,394cc V8 M TwinPower Turbo engine, producing a maximum output of 600ps (441kW) at 6,000rpm and a maximum torque of 750Nm between 1,800-5,600rpm. Combined with an 8-speed M Steptronic transmission with Drivelogic and an M xDrive all-wheel-drive system biased towards the rear wheels, it is engineered to efficiently transfer the high-performance engine's power to the road, achieving 0-100km/h in 3.4 seconds.
The standard M xDrive intelligent all-wheel-drive system distributes torque from the high-performance engine variably and continuously between the front and rear axles. Furthermore, the Active M Differential optimizes and distributes torque between the two rear wheels. Drivers can adjust the power distribution between the front and rear axles as needed, with initial settings including a "4WD" mode, a "4WD SPORT" mode that is nearly rear-wheel-drive biased, and a "2WD" mode for pure rear-wheel-drive driving with DSC deactivated.
The standard M-specific integrated brake system is designed for excellent stability even under high load conditions when the accelerator is fully depressed. Drivers can arbitrarily adjust the vehicle's deceleration, achieving the desired pedal feel in all situations. Additionally, two pedal modes can be set: "COMFORT" mode, prioritizing comfort, and "SPORT" mode, prioritizing quick response.

In addition to the ability to arbitrarily adjust engine response, steering, and suspension characteristics, a hallmark of BMW M models, the brake system settings can now also be changed. A new "M MODE" button on the center console allows drivers to switch the display methods for the instrument cluster and head-up display, as well as the intervention levels of the driver assistance systems, between "ROAD" and "SPORT" modes.
In "ROAD" mode, all driver assistance systems are active as the basic setting. In "SPORT" mode, based on driver-selected information, intervention in all braking and steering systems, except for the front proximity warning and collision avoidance/mitigation braking, can be deactivated.

L-shaped LED headlights adopted, similar to the new BMW 5 Series

The exterior, like the new BMW 5 Series, features L-shaped LED headlights that evoke BMW's traditional four-eyed design while emphasizing a modern and sporty image. The L-shaped rear combination lights, a BMW tradition, are given a more three-dimensional form and are surrounded by black accents for a sharp impression. Furthermore, the double-bar kidney grille and the M gills on the sides of the body assert its identity as a BMW M high-performance model.
The interior befits BMW M's new flagship model, featuring red M buttons on the M leather steering wheel and a red start/stop button on the center console. The newly designed selector lever is engraved with the M logo and features M model-colored stitching. Carbon fiber interior trim further accentuates the personality of this high-performance sports model.
The three-dimensionally designed new sports seats feature side bolsters that extend significantly around the shoulder area, creating a design that comfortably envelops the driver. The headrests are equipped with illuminated model badges bearing the "M" logo.

BMW M550i xDrive equipped with a 530ps V8 twin-turbo

The simultaneously launched new BMW M5 Competition is a model designed for more aggressive sports driving. Its specially developed V8 engine utilizes extremely rigid, dedicated engine mounts connected to the vehicle's structure for more direct power delivery, producing a maximum output of 625ps (460kW) at 6,000rpm. It achieves 0-100km/h in 3.3 seconds.
In terms of design, the high-gloss black kidney grille, model badges, door mirrors, and rear spoiler create a more aggressive aesthetic. The new M Mode button, making its debut on the new BMW M5, offers "ROAD" and "SPORT" modes for the M5, plus a "TRACK" mode that deactivates all functions related to driver assistance systems' comfort and safety.

The new BMW M550i xDrive is powered by a V8 twin-turbo engine producing a maximum output of 530ps (390kW) at 5,500rpm and a maximum torque of 750Nm between 1,800-4,600rpm, achieving 0-100km/h in 3.8 seconds.
Additionally, BMW's intelligent all-wheel-drive system "BMW xDrive," M adaptive suspension, and M differential enable stable control and sporty driving even on rough roads. The adoption of Cerium Grey, a color exclusive to M Performance models, for the kidney grille, air intakes, air breathers, and mirror caps enhances the presence and individuality of these performance models.

Prices are 13.19 million yen for the M550i xDrive, 17.92 million yen for the M5, and 18.77 million yen for the M5 Competition. Deliveries will begin in October of this year.
Contact

BMW Customer Interaction Center
Tel. 0120-269-437 (Weekdays 9:00-19:00, Weekends and Holidays 9:00-18:00)
https://www.bmw.co.jp/

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