Recently we had the opportunity to test out the newest model from BMW’s 5 Series. We have to admit that we now realize why the fans weren’t so impressed with the whole 5 Series. Even though this model’s first representative is from 1972 and was a success, nowadays, it does not really get that much attention or positive comments. This is maybe due to the fact that Mercedes-Benz took over the lead by producing better vehicles, but one cannot know for sure. I mean, we all remember the E28 from 1981 that was featured in one of the movies about a fugitive Jason Bourne. Well, from that point on we didn’t really have a car from this lineup worthy of ‘red carpet’ and we think that the 2018 BMW M550i is no exception.
The company declared this model to be an ‘executive athlete’ and we were quite interested since we met the futuristic, touch-screen, self-driving proficiency and business elegance style of the 5 Series. In the end, contrary to all of the aforementioned virtues the 2018 BMW M550i xDrive came to us as a total opposition to that style. We chose Bavaria (Germany) as the ‘test venue.’ To be precise, we picked German Alps elbow better known as Berchtesgaden, and it was truly a majestic and wonderful experience. Nowadays this part is a national park, however, some 70 to 80 years earlier it was a place where Hitler built his ‘Eagle’s Nest’ hideaway.
We had no luck when it comes to weather there since it snowed even though the season had finished long ago. Therefore our car was equipped with ‘Continental’ winter tires. They were great since you could really feel the effect of them pushing out road vibration through the frame and softening the corner turn-in. We expected no easy driving session since we had a muscle car on our hands that is as heavy as 4,372 pounds.
It runs on a 4.4-liter, twin turbo V8 that has direct injection and variable valve lift. It will provide you with 456 horsepower at 5,500 rpm and 480 pound-feet of torque going from 1,800 to 4,750 rpm. What was interesting was that even when we were nearing the red line at 6,500 rpm, the throttle was quite lenient and easy to handle. And yeah, we went from 0 to 60 in 3.9 seconds. This only proves that the engine is a real beast. No doubt about it.
The V8 unit is connected to a ZF eight-speed torque converter automatic transmission. It enjoys benefits of a special set of ratios and electronically controlled Haldex-type clutch pack which sends power to the front wheels when the slip is predicted and anticipated. However, the system defaults to a transfer power to rear wheels!
When it comes to wheels, the 2018 BMW M550i brings standard 19-inch ones with 20-inch rims that are optional. Exterior design and the body are quite similar to regular version except for the big lower front air intakes, blue brake calipers, black mirror cappings and black chrome exhaust snaps. All of that gives this car a more aggressive and dangerous look. Inside the cabin, we have sporty seats combined with aluminum foot pedals under which we have illuminated sill plates and trim strips.
Through the steering column paddles, you can control transmission. A few of driver settings are available for the transmission that will modify the throttle mapping, steering weight and suspension roll damping and control. The model’s Sport and Sport + are extreme cases with the Sport + that relaxes dynamic stability in order to achieve easier tail-out driving.
After pushing the ‘Start Engine’ button, you will hear a growl that will turn into a situation where you have to explain all that noise to your neighbors. This loud and aggressive startup really contrasted with the cars calm nature around town. By that, we mean that the suspension is quite good even though the tires were screaming over the potholes and surface changes. Because of those winter tires, a slight vibration could be felt through the steering wheel.
When we floored the gas pedal we were left breathless. Acceleration was majestic as if we were riding a storm. Thanks to ZF transmission gear switching was smooth and quick. We short-shifted it manually at 4,500 rpm, and we truly felt like we were driving in an unstoppable raging force.
However do not become too ‘free’ with speed, this is a six feet wide car, and therefore it requires precise placement on all of the roads. Do not try this on narrow streets. You could lose control easily. Even though the other BMW models sacrifice high speed for the driving quality especially with all-weather rubber tires that is not the case with 2018 BMW M550i. And those comfortable, sporty seats just come as icing on the cake.
On the other hand, we were quite unsatisfied with the steering aid. The only good thing about it is that it can be turned off via the dashboard. And in order to do so, you have to go through 3 levels of digging through infotainment system to achieve that. Quite unacceptable for an M-badged sedan. Brakes are fine thanks to the big four-piston calipers that squeeze front discs, but the cheap single piston swinging caliper for rear brakes feels like the company wanted to save some money in the last minute with this model.
For a driver that wants power so that he can relax through long-distance cruises, this is the right option. Maybe, but just maybe. For those who appreciate their driving the Mercedes AMG E-Class offers better solutions. Even the E43 AMG that has a V6 engine is a better solution. If you don’t want that one, you can wait for the proper M5, but it really cannot be much of an upgrade to this model. All in all, if you think that 5 Series are bad than the 2018 BMW M550i xDrive is a sure disappointment.
