BMW has just revealed its new M Performance lineup. It slots in between the brand’s regular-production cars, and its high-performance M cars.
The M Performance lineup consists of the M550d xDrive, the M550d xDrive Touring, the X5 M50d and the X6 M50d. It marks the first time in recent history that the letters “d” and “M” show up on the trunklid of the same BMW, a move that is sure to ruffle the feathers of more than a few M purists.
The four cars are powered by the same 3.0-liter straight-six diesel engine fed with three turbos, another first in BMW’s history. Two small, high-capacity turbos work with a single large, low-capacity unit.
The obvious result is a gain in power: the engine is rated at 381 horsepower and an earth-shaking 546 lb-ft of torque. BMW also says that the three turbos give the engine better throttle response at low rpms, and more boost at higher rpms.
Power is sent to all four wheels via BMW’s xDrive all-wheel drive system. A ZF eight-speed automatic transmission that features shift paddles on the steering wheel is the only gearbox available.
The M treatment doesn’t just apply to the engine. The suspension has been tuned to obtain a sportier ride and new shock absorbers are fitted. With the exception of the 5-Series sedan, the M Performance cars come standard with self-leveling air suspension on the rear axle.
Aesthetically speaking the M Performance cars borrow styling cues from the M Pack that is available on regular BMWs. M logos are scattered throughout the car, including on the gearshift, on the trunk lid, on the steering wheel, on the rims in the door sills, and under the hood.
The 5-Series sedan and wagon go from zero to 62 miles per hour in 4.7 and 4.9 seconds respectively. Both are rated at about 53 miles per gallon in a mixed European cycle.
The X5 and the X6 take 5.4 and 5.3 seconds respectively to hit 62 miles per hour from a stop. They are rated at 44 miles per gallon, again in a mixed European cycle.
All four cars are electronically limited to a top speed of 155 miles per hour.
The M Performance cars will make their public debut at the Geneva Motor Show that will open its doors next March. The 5-Series duo will go on sale in May, but those who are after the SUVs will have to wait until June. BMW does not plan on selling the cars in the United states, though the X5 and the X6 will be built there.
In Germany, the M550d xDrive will start at 80,800€ ($105,969), the M550d xDrive Touring at 83,750€ ($109,838), the X5 M50d at 82,300€ ($107,936) and the X6 M50d tops off the range at 85,800€ ($112,526).
