[michal12]

Had an oportunity to test drive the M550d during an xDrive Event in the mountains. Just sharing my observations:

It was a very pleasant surprise. I was not a big fan of the previous gen (as I thought the engine could not keep its promises) but this one felt a lot better.
First surprise – sound quality inside the car. I am sure it must be artificial, but somehow the sound generator hides the diesel clatter and emits deep resonating sounds. No fake V8 sound, it just sounds powerful. Did feel natural and pleasant for me.

This is kind of funny, because I really do not like the sound generator in the M550i.

Second observation I would like to share – when you kick-down, the first surge of acceleration comes from lower gear obviously, but there is noticable surge in acceleration rate at around 3500 or 4000 rpm. This felt kind of nice as when you are passing, you sort of get another kick halfway through. Feels like the engine actually has a top end, which is unusual for a diesel.

Fuel consumptions is probably a bit of a downside, as I was getting like 15.2mpg.. (15.5l/100km) My point is, over the same track, a 540d was getting 26mpg (9l/100km).
But our driving was extreme, that has to be said.

[DavidI]

Originally Posted by michal12

there is noticable surge in acceleration rate at around 3500 or 4000 rpm. This felt kind of nice as when you are passing, you sort of get another kick halfway through

I'm guessing that is either the third or fourth turbo kicking in

Would be nice if we in the UK had the opportunity to sample it

[mike@x-ph.com]

Glad you like it

[Nivarox]

Thanks for sharing your thoughts
I don't see point of buying a super powerful diesel engine for its sheer economical aspects at all.There must be something why people buy these diesel guzzlers ,if fuel economy was main concern then there's 520d , 530d offer great value and decent economy as well

[Pierre Louis]

Originally Posted by Nivarox

Thanks for sharing your thoughts
I don't see point of buying a super powerful diesel engine for its sheer economical aspects at all.There must be something why people buy these diesel guzzlers ,if fuel economy was main concern then there's 520d , 530d offer great value and decent economy as well

Think of "Superman, more powerful than a locomotive....."

[Shakespere]

Just took a 550d xdrive and then a 540i xdrive for spin. I own a 530d xdrive

It was very slippery conditions so it was most unfortunate, but the power on 550d was amazing. I didnt like the noise whcih was most of the time, and an odd whining on deceleration. so i am not sure if i would be bugged by the noise if i have to drive it everyday.

on the other hand i was a little dissappointed by the 540i. The power seemed low. I prefer my 530d. Too bad i couldnt try the 550i...