The BMW M5 is No Longer the Fastest 5 Series

BMW has introduced a new 5 Series model that is faster than the current M5.

The first ever BMW M550i xDrive is the fastest 5 Series to date with a zero-to-60 mph time under 4.0 seconds, making it faster than the current standard BMW M5 that does the sprint in 4.4 seconds, according to BMW. Powered by a 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8 engine, the M550i xDrive delivers 456 horsepower and 480 pound-feet of torque and is heading to the U.S. in spring 2017. The powerplant is mated to an eight-speed Steptronic Sport transmission while BMW’s xDrive all-wheel-drive system splits drive power in the M550i between all four wheels as the situation demands.

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Compared to the standard 5 Series, the M550i sits 0.4 inches (10 mm) closer to the ground thanks to Adaptive M Sport suspension, and can be had with either standard 19-inch M light-alloy wheels in Cerium Gray metallic matte or the optional 20-inch M light-alloy wheels in an exclusive design, also finished in Cerium Gray metallic.

Further enhancing the M550i is an M aerodynamic kit that includes an M rear spoiler on the trunk lid, helping optimize the airflow guiding the air around and over the car. The exterior mirror caps, the kidney grille frame, the special M Performance design accents on the front air intake and the two Air Breathers on the front fenders are all finished in exclusive Cerium Gray metallic. Around the windows is high-gloss Shadow Line trim while in the rear is an M sports exhaust system with exclusive tailpipes in black chrome.

Additional elements on the sports sedan include illuminated door sills with the “M550i xDrive” inscription while standard multi-contour seats are upholstered in Black Dakota leather with blue contrast stitching.

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The German automaker also announced the BMW 530e iPerformance, a plug-in hybrid with a total system output of 248 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque. Range and fuel economy figures have not been announced for the 530e iPerformance, but expect more details closer to the model’s launch in spring 2017.