For the model year 2020, BMW Australia will introduce the new BMW M550i xDrive performance sedan in different variants, including an entry-level model badged ‘Pure’. The label ‘Pure’ was until now reserved for the lower-spec M2 and M3 variants sold on the Australian markets. With the advent of the new M Performance business sedan, BMW will introduce a cheaper price version of the M550i xDrive beginning with 2020. The entry-level BMW M550i xDrive will have a starting price of AUD 134,900, substantially below the standard variant which sports a price tag of AUD 149,900.

The ‘Pure’ and the standard M550i xDrive will basically be the same car, in terms of powertrain. Both are equipped with the enhanced N63 4.4-liter V8 powerplant which debuted in 2018 on the M850i and already powers several other models such as the M50i iterations of the X5, X6 and X7 series. The outstanding TwinTurbo petrol unit develops a massive output of 390 kW/530 PS (523 hp) and is set to offer great driving pleasure in true BMW style with the help of the integral xDrive traction system.

The all-wheel drive system in M550i handles a peak output of 750 Nm via the 8-speed sports automatic gearbox. The sprint to 100 km/h from standstill takes just 3.8 seconds, which is merely 0.4 seconds slower than the M5 Competition, for example.

Moving on to the equipment side of thing, the ‘Pure’ version comes packed with M Sport brakes, M Sport differential, 20-inch alloys, sports seats, digital instrument cluster, the Driving Assistant Plus package and an audio surround system. The standard M550i xDrive comes with extra features: active anti-roll stabilization, integral active rear-wheel steering and laser headlights.

The options available for the M550i xDrive on the Australian market include the Innovations Package (AUD 1700) which comprises the digital keyfob, the Parking Assistant and the BMW Gesture Control, while the Indulgence Package (AUD 7500) gives you rear seat entertainment, electric front seats with massage function, and iDrive system with satellite TV function.