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

The engineer so good he got banned, and designed a £30k sports car you can buy
Richard Hall Great British Sports Cars
Features

The engineer so good he got banned, and designed a £30k sports car you can buy

From 1:10-scale beginnings via building kit cars, Richard Hall’s passion for engineering led to the creation of his own modern‑day Lotus Seven interpr…
27 Sep 2026
The Nissan Z ‘Kaze’ makes Japan’s V6 coupe T-top
Nissan Z Kaze concept
News

The Nissan Z ‘Kaze’ makes Japan’s V6 coupe T-top

Nissan has gone back to the ’90s with the one-off Z Kaze, making the V6 coupe open-air with a T-top
25 Sep 2026
Teenagers are dreaming about Mazdas, not McLarens. I think I know why
McLaren W1
Opinion

Teenagers are dreaming about Mazdas, not McLarens. I think I know why

Supercars are everywhere today, but they don’t have the old allure, says Porter
25 Sep 2026