By Nat Shirley
Friday, Jun 22nd, 2012 @ 4:25 pm
 
BMW plans to upgrade its V8-powered 5-Series and 6-Series models for 2013 with the more powerful version of the automaker's twin-turbo 4.4-liter V8, the same unit used in the refreshed 2013 7-Series and the new 6-Series Gran Coupe.

The move will mean a boost of 45 horsepower and 30 lb-ft of torque for totals of 445 ponies and 480 lb-ft of twist, Car and Driver reports. The extra power is achieved through the addition of BMW's Valvetronic variable valve timing and lift system.

No word on whether fuel economy will impacted by the higher-output engine, which is known internally as the N63Tu.

The change applies to all "50i"-badged 5-Series and 6-Series models, including the 550i sedan, 550i Gran Turismo and 650i coupe and convertible. Notably, the X5 and X6 will retain the old 400 horsepower, 450 lb-ft of torque mill, although that power is apparently still sufficient for the crossovers to motor over the competion.