BMW has announced a
number of updates for its European model lineup, introducing new engines and
optional features across the range. The most important ones include the
adoption of the latest twin-turbo 4.4-liter V8 engine in the new M550i xDrive,
complete with 523 hp and 750 Nm of torque. Power is sent to
all four wheels via an eight-speed automatic transmission, making the new M550i
xDrive the next best thing to an M5.
The previous
iteration of the M550i offered 456 hp and 650 Nm, which was more than
enough but the new more powerful engine should make this 5-Series capable of
running the 0-100 km/h in under 4 seconds.
The 8-Series Coupe
and Convertible is getting a new entry-level petrol version in the form of the
840i. Power comes from a turbocharged 3.0-liter straight-six unit with 335 hp. BMW has also added new optional features to the 8-Series, including M
Sport seats and new Individual paint finishes among other.
BMW’s X5 is also
getting new engine options; an entry-level 2-liter four-cylinder diesel with
228 hp and 450 Nm of torque in the xDrive25d and the plug-in
hybrid xDrive45e which marries a six-cylinder petrol unit with an electric
motor for a combined 388 hp and an all-electric range of up to 80 km.
The new Z4 Roadster
will be available with a six-speed manual gearbox in the entry-level sDrive20i
as standard. Power comes from a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder petrol
with 194 hp.
Finally, the new
3-Series range is expanding, as the range-topping M340i xDrive can now be
ordered and BMW adding a plug-in hybrid powertrain option in the form of the
330e. The latter offers a combined 288 hp, an all-electric range of up
to 6 6km and a 0-100 km/h in 6 seconds
