UK consumers will not be able to buy a diesel BMW ‘M5’ until the launch of the next-generation 5-series in about three years. According to BMW sources, the 376bhp, 546lb ft 3.0-litre tri-turbo diesel engine is presently available in the M550d in left-hand drive markets but it could be partnered only to all-wheel drive running gear. The present 5-series platform can’t be built with all-wheel drive in right-hand-drive form, says Autocar. But then, the next-generation 5-series will be available in right-hand drive with four-wheel drive, making it very likely that the first diesel car will carry the M badge. The platform, which is presently being developed, will be used for the next 6-series and 7-series. It’s believed that the tri-turbo engine will be available in any of the two models.
Bmw M550d will be available only in left-hand drive markets
by Andrew Christian, Email, 30 Oct, 2012
2013 Bmw M550d xDrive Sedan
