New BMW 5 Series: No V8 .. For Now

BMW Ditches V8 M550i: What’s the Replacement?

This week, BMW unveiled the eighth generation 5 Series, with it came the initial induction of the all-electric i5 variation. One significant omission from the range was a V8 powered version, however.

Today’s selection includes the impressive M550i xDrive, which is powered by a 4.4-liter bi-turbo V8 churning out 523 horsepower and 553 lb-ft of torque, all of which is sent to the wheels via an all-wheel-drive system. However, the range-topping option for this new combustion 5 Series is the 540i xDrive – its turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six only generates 375 hp with additional 398 lb-ft when the integrated mild hybrid system is engaged.

Pondering the absent V8 engine, CarBuzz contacted BMW to learn why it was not currently available and if it potentially could be added in the future. The response that we obtained was probably unappealing for some people.

“The BMW i5 eDrive M60 is a worthy successor to the M550i xDrive,” according to the mothership in Germany. Boasting impressive performance data and driving dynamics, the i5 eDrive M60 is sure to be a hit with car enthusiasts. It promises to deliver an enjoyable and exciting ride that will make it a great option for those looking for a high-performance vehicle.

It’s clear the i5 M60 is simply the crown jewel of the 5er lineup; boasting two electric motors to give it 4×4 capabilities, combined with power ratings of 590 horses and 605 lb-ft of torque. This puts it miles above the formerly held title-holder, the M550I xDrive, and only loses out by a marginal amount when it comes to 0-60 times, being only one tenth slower than what was offered previously. In other words, both set records for sheer performance in their respective generations.

No matter what, supporters shall still souren; after all, the BMW V8 is definitely dynamic – satisfying sufficient for EU exhaust regulations, in particualr when utilized with with ecofriendly solutions, such is the example of the M760i xDrive.

Notwithstanding, not everyone has the ambition of possessing a battery-powered vehicle. BMW clearly realizes this point better than a great many others, and therefore they have declined to set an expiration date for combustion-motor cars.

To that end, a combustion alternative with similar outputs will be available later. Company representatives told CarBuzz that “the 550e xDrive PHEV will offer 483 hp, 516 lb-ft, and over 30 miles of electric-only driving when it’s released in early 2024.” This new model will utilize a 3.0-liter inline-six turbo motor paired with an electric motor, eliminating the need for the bulky battery pack found in the i5 M60. As a result, the power deficit will be reduced, potentially delivering performance that is close to that of the current M550i, although not quite as potent.

It appears that eventually, a V8 is going to be in the 5 Series collection. Sources within BMW have been revealing to us prior to this that the M5 will have the 740-hp plug-in hybrid V8 from the XM Line Red.