2009 BMW 555i to feature twin-turbo V8 power

According to the folks over at Bimmerfile, BMW are getting set to inject some turbocharged V8 fun into the 5-series range. In preparation for the event, BMW began trademarking the 555i name last year which had some believing that a 5.5-litre V8 was on the way but that’s not believed to be the case.

A more likely scenario is the fitment of BMW’s new N63, 4.4-litre twin-turbo, direct injected mill, the same engine being released in the X6 ‘50’. With 298Kw/400hp and a hefty 610Nm the force fed V8 promises to bring a new sparkle to the aging 5-Series line-up. Good for a 0-100km/h time of 5.4 seconds in the X6, wrapped in the lighter 5-Series shell it should be a rival for the M5...

The N63 is an interesting engine in that it houses the two turbos within the ‘V’ of the engine and relegates the inlet manifolds to the sides of the block - its also known as a reverse-flow engine. In this configuration the twin-turbocharged V8 remains a relatively compact package.

A notable feature is the air-to-water intercoolers which are more efficient than the more common air-to-air type. BMW’s Valvetronic system, a feature of their atmo engines is not fitted to the N63 or the 335i’s turbo-charged in-line six-cylinder. While transmission choices have not been officially announced, Bimmerfile suggest that a ‘milder’ DCT transmission will be available.

The 555i is expected to offer the same features available in the rest of 5-Series line-up including a sport package that will see the fitment of an aerodynamic body kit and the choice of some unique exterior colours.