Auto Trader NZ
Published 3 September 2020
The 4.8-litre V8 motor has Valvetronic induction, and the cars are now badged 550i and 650i.
The engine produces maximum torque of 490Nm at 3400rpm, compared to 450Nm at 3600rpm in the outgoing 545i and 645Ci models.
Power output increases to 270kW at 6300rpm. The 550i sedan accelerates to 100km/h in 5.6 seconds; the 550i Touring in 5.7 seconds; and the 650i Coupe and Convertible in 5.5 seconds.
All the new V8 models comply with the strict EU4 emissions regulations.
The 550i offers a slight improvement in fuel economy over the model it replaces: official overall EU fuel efficiency figures are 10.8 litres/100km (550i sedan) compared with 10.9 litres/100 km for the outgoing 545i. The 550i Touring returns 11.3 litres/100km, the 650i coupe 11.1 litres, and the 650i cabrio 11.7 litres/100km.
Standard requipment on both models includes Xenon adaptive headlights that spread lighting coverage to follow the direction of the front wheels; and Active Front Steering which varies the gearing according to vehicle speed.
Also standard are a headlight washer system, windscreen with green anti-glare strip and heat-insulating glass with a discreet green tint. A driver-selectable rain sensor that automatically activates the windscreen wipers is another standard feature.
The comprehensive safety specification for the 5 Series models includes Dynamic Stability Control (DSC III), ABS anti-lock brakes, Automatic Stability Control and Traction (ASC+T), along with driver and front passenger airbags, AHPS II head airbag system for front and rear passengers; and side airbags for driver, and all passengers.
The 6 Series’ safety system includes Dynamic Stability Control (DSC III), ABS anti-lock brakes, Dynamic Brake Control along with driver and front passenger airbags and side (thorax) airbags for driver and front seat passenger.
All V8 BMWs now feature Bluetooth preparation for safe and convenient mobile phone use on the move.
The interiors of the 550i, 550i Touring and both 6 Series model features BMW’s Dakota leather upholstery package.
Standard interior specification for the V8-engined 5 and 6 Series includes dashboard monitor with TV function, plus voice control linked to the Bluetooth unit and BMW’s advanced i-Drive system, which controls and provides access to a wide range of driver-selectable settings including sound system, mobile phone, air conditioning and navigation.
The 550i sedan runs on seven inch by 17-inch alloy wheels with 225/50 R17 runflat tyres. The Touring features seven inch by 17-inch alloy wheels with 225/50 R17 runflat tyres, and the 650i Coupe and Convertible have eight inch by 18-inch rims with 245/45 R18 tyres.
Sport versions of the 5 Series will continue to be offered alongside standard models and have a full motorsport-inspired aerodynamic bodykit, sports suspension and interior trim, and distinctive BMW M double-spoke eight inch by 18-inch alloy wheels and 245/40 R18 runflat tyres.
