BMW launches new M performance range
Written By Richard Lawton Published On: Jan 26 2012German car giant BMW has announced the introduction of a new performance-inspired range of cars. Sitting between the existing ‘M Sport’ trims available across the range and the ultra-high performance ‘M’ badged models, the new ‘M Performance’ range has been developed in collaboration with the legendary ‘M’ division of BMW.
Kicking things off will be the introduction of four M performance models – the BMW M550d xDrive saloon and Touring, the BMW X5 M50d and BMW X6 M50d. These diesel-powered new models have significant performance figures over and above the current range of diesel-powered models and share the same newly developed 3.0-litre engine. Central to this is increase in performance is the TwinTurbo technology used on the models which improves output and torque, across an extremely wide rev range.
This new technology actually employs three turbochargers, a first for the company, designed to guarantee maximum power delivery across a wide rev band. The system comprises two relatively small turbochargers and one large turbo, which join forces precisely to deliver the amount of power required. The new engine is capable of producing 381 hp, 68 hp more than the existing 535d M Sport.
The result of this new engine is a diesel-powered 5 Series saloon capable of 0-62mph in just 4.7 seconds, the Touring model covers the same sprint in just 4.9 seconds. These EU6 compliant models are also, relatively, low emission, with the saloon emitting 165g/km of CO2 and the Touring 169g/km.
The larger X5 and X6 models also provides exhilarating performance figures, the X6 M50d takes just 5.3 seconds to go from zero to 62mph and the X5 M50d just a tenth of a second slower. CO2 emissions come in at 204g/km and 199g/km respectfully.
All four models come with an eight-speed Sports automatic gearbox with enhanced gearshift dynamics and xDrive intelligent all-wheel drive with bespoke set-up optimised to enhance dynamics. While to further differentiate the M Performance models from their contemporaries BMW have ensured they each comes with distinctive and aerodynamically optimised bodykits.
Keeping your car warm in cold ...Three-door Kia Rio now availab ...
New Comment