Skip advert
Advertisement

BMW M diesels coming to the UK: BMW M diesels coming to the UK

New high-performance X5 and X6 models coming to the UK

After news of BMW's plan to launch a new line of diesel-powered M Performance cars appeared at the Detroit motor show, the company has finally confirmed that the first models coming to the UK with the new high-performance package will be the X5 and X6 M50d, available from June.

These models will be the first to utilise the all-new triple-turbocharged straight-six diesel engine - BMW's most-powerful production diesel engine ever. The engine produces 381bhp and a phenomenal 530 lb/ft of torque. These impressive figures will propel the X6 from 0-60mph in 5.3 seconds, while averaging 36.7mpg. The X5 isn't far behind, managing 5.4 seconds to 60mph and a slightly better 37.7mpg, just creeping under 200g/km of CO2. Both cars are limited to 155mph.

Advertisement - Article continues below

By using three turbochargers, two small and one large, BMW engineers have ensured that the engine receives optimum boost-pressure at all points in the rev-range, with optimum torque available from 2000-3000 rpm. The standard eight-speed automatic transmission has been programmed to ensure an 'uninterrupted flow' of power with seamless changes, in either automatic or manual mode.

BMW are also fitting this engine into the 5-series, calling the resultant super-saloon the M550d, but for the time being, BMW have no plans to bring it to the UK.

Skip advert
Advertisement
Skip advert
Advertisement

Most Popular

Lotus wants to save its Norfolk factory by developing and building other company's sports cars
Lotus factory
Features

Lotus wants to save its Norfolk factory by developing and building other company's sports cars

The Emira will live on and there's an Esprit supercar on the way, but Lotus has another plan to keep Hethel active
18 Aug 2026
McLaren McL 6GT is a new manual supercar and a complete reset
McLaren McL 6GT
News

McLaren McL 6GT is a new manual supercar and a complete reset

Unbelievably, the design of this new McLaren is more surprising than the reintroduction of a manual transmission…
14 Aug 2026
Ford Focus RS (Mk3, 2016 - 2018) review – the last proper fast Ford?
Ford Focus RS
In-depth reviews

Ford Focus RS (Mk3, 2016 - 2018) review – the last proper fast Ford?

The Mk3 Focus RS looks like it’ll be Ford’s last RS, certainly with petrol-only power, for a while if not ever. Did the legendary badge go out on a hi…
18 Aug 2026