The first of the new BMW M peformance division cars the BMW M550d xDrive has been given a first drive by Autocar. It is a car which in real world performance is potentially even faster than the new Twin Turbo V8 M5. The xDrive system, which is not available in the UK on a 5 series is rumoured not to make it over the Channel at all. Yet BMW have hinted at a RWD version called M550d I think this is a shame as although BMW are known for RWD saloons, it would be a refreshing change to see a 4WD saloon from them, especialy with all that torque to put down on the road. Speaking of which figures are 545lb ft. A mighty 103 more than the 535d, which was hardly the weakest car in the world. Power is also up to a huge 376BHP yet when cruising down the motorway it will do up to as good as 45MPG. 0-62 in 4.7 seconds and it does a standing 1000m in 23.7s, to compare a E92 M3 is about the same.

Autocar mention how the throttle response is epic and “no diesel should have throttle input like this”.

“Any revs, in any gear, the M550d xDrive simply flies. Pegged hard, its accelerative nature is nothing less than brutal”

Now if only that engine could be put in a 3 series. Or better yet, what will Alpina do with this engine?