Europe’s 2020 BMW M550i Gains 523HP Twin-Turbo V8 From M850i, Z4 Gets A Manual

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 523hp (530PS) and 553lb-ft (750Nm) 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 456hp and 480lb-ft (650Nm), which was more than enough but the new more powerful engine should make this 5-Series capable of running the 0-62mph (100km/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 335hp (340PS). 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 228hp (231PS) and 332lb-ft (450Nm) 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 388hp (394PS) and an all-electric range of up to 50 miles (80km).

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 194hp (197PS).

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 288hp (292PS), an all-electric range of up to 41 miles (66km) and a 0-62mph (100km/h) in 6 seconds.