Overview
The BMW 5 Series G30/G31/G38 M550d is a high-performance variant of the 5th generation 5 Series lineup, produced from 2017 to 2020. It combines the comfort and luxury of a mid-size executive sedan with the power and handling of a performance car.
Engine and Performance
The M550d is powered by a 3.0-liter inline-6 diesel engine, known as the B57, which produces 462 horsepower (343 kW) at 4,400 rpm and 700 Nm (516 lb-ft) of torque from 2,000 to 3,000 rpm. The engine features a pair of turbochargers and a mild-hybrid system, which provides an additional 8 kW (11 hp) of power and 52 Wh (kilowatt-hours) of energy storage.
Transmission and Drive
The M550d is available with a choice of two transmissions: the 8-speed automatic Steptronic transmission and the optional xDrive all-wheel-drive system. The latter features a transfer case that can distribute torque between the front and rear axles, as well as an electronically controlled limited-slip differential.
Suspension and Handling
The M550d features a bespoke suspension setup, which includes adaptive dampers and a sport-tuned multi-link setup at both ends. This provides improved handling and stability, particularly when cornering or navigating challenging road surfaces.
Interior and Comfort
The interior of the M550d is based on the same design as the standard 5 Series, but with several unique touches to reflect its performance focus. These include sport seats with 12-way adjustment, a flat-bottomed steering wheel, and a range of bespoke trim materials.
Safety Features
As part of BMW's commitment to safety, the M550d comes equipped with a comprehensive suite of driver assistance systems, including:
- Active Cruise Control (ACC)
- Lane Departure Warning (LDW)
- Blind Spot Detection (BSD)
- Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA)
- Parking Assistant
Dimensions and Weight
The dimensions of the M550d are as follows:
- Length: 4,924 mm (193.9 in)
- Width: 1,866 mm (73.1 in)
- Height: 1,525 mm (60 in)
- Wheelbase: 2,920 mm (115 in)
- Curb weight: approximately 1,850 kg (4,080 lb)
Fuel Economy and Emissions
The M550d is rated for a combined fuel economy of up to 6.5 liters per 100 kilometers (36.3 mpg) on the European NEDC test cycle, with CO2 emissions of 169 grams per kilometer.
Trim Levels and Pricing
The M550d was available in several trim levels during its production run, including:
- M550d xDrive
- M550d xDrive M Sport
- M550d xDrive Competition Package
Pricing for the M550d varied depending on the market and configuration, but it generally started at around €75,000 (approximately $85,000) in Europe.
Conclusion
The BMW 5 Series G30/G31/G38 M550d is a potent and refined performance sedan that combines the best of both worlds. Its powerful diesel engine, advanced suspension setup, and comprehensive suite of safety features make it an attractive option for drivers who value comfort, handling, and practicality in equal measure.
