BMW M550d Gets Quad-Turbo Diesel

BMW AG’s 2017 M550d midsize performance model will be powered by the company’s new quad-turbo 3.0-liter straight-six diesel engine.

The engine generates 400 hp and 560 lb-ft of torque, which the carmaker says makes it the most powerful 6-cylinder diesel in the industry. Mated with an 8-speed automatic transmission, the engine allows the car to sprint from zero to 62 mph in 4.4 seconds.

The quad-diesel teams two low-pressure turbochargers for low-end torque with a pair of high pressure units to handle the rest of the rev range. The previous generation engine had a tri-turbo design with two high-pressure units and a larger low-pressure turbo.

BMW says the fourth turbocharger optimizes the engine’s efficiency and performance characteristics. The new M550d sedan emits 154 g/km and has fuel efficiency rating of 40 mpg based on the European driving cycle.

The new M550d, which also is available as a wagon (pictured), has a rear-biased all-wheel-drive system. Other goodies include a sport suspension and brakes, active steering and an M aerodynamics package.