BMW M550i xDrive (G30) | Spotted

There can be no doubting the talent of the new BMW i5 M60. It really is BMW at its best; a fast, handsome, luxurious, capable and commanding sports saloon, simply one that’s powered by electricity. It bodes very well both for future electric cars with M badges and the upcoming fast 5 Series – plug-in M5 most importantly. 

The M60 is another very good M car in what currently looks like a formidably strong lineup. Even if the styling of cars like the M2 and M3 might not be to all tastes, they’re fantastic to drive. However, in creating a range of cars with more technology, power and ability than ever, the M cars are now more expensive as well. An M3 is from £81,000, an M2 is from £65k… even the M240i xDrive, the entry point for six-cylinder M Performance models, is £49,225. And there are nearly new V8 5 Series available for less than that…

The M550i xDrive launched in Britain in May 2020. Always likely to be a rare beast, the timing could hardly have been worse. It seemed to offer a lot for £68,000, most notably a 530hp version of the 4.4-litre, twin-turbo V8, enough for 0-62mph in just 3.8 seconds. There was also an M Sport differential to make the most of the rear-biased xDrive, Adaptive M Suspension with its own spring and damper settings for ‘superb poise, even when the driver is exploring the upper end of the car’s dynamic repertoire’, plus upgraded M Sport brakes. Previously the sub-M5 5 Series comprised a big engine and not very much more, but the M550i reflected a more thorough approach. 

So much so, in fact, that the only logical rival back in 2020 was the Alpina B5 – watch that video here. However, whereas the special status of Buchloe ‘bruisers keeps residual values strong, the M Performance BMWs are not afforded the same privilege. To many, they’re just another 5 Series; even to those who know, it’d be hard to deny the appeal of a fully-fledged M car. 

So they’ve depreciated, even in these bizarre times for used car values. For those who like their M cars large, discreet and V8-powered (the love for the E39 M5 would suggest there are a few on PH), this M550i ought to appeal. The light leather brightens up the interior, it’s got the Technology Plus Pack, and it’s for sale with just 6,696 miles – not far off dealer demo mileage, really – for £48,000. £20k off list with not very many miles at all. 

Given the age and mileage, the 5 Series looks essentially brand new. Obviously, it sailed through its first MOT. It should want for nothing. The interior may seem a tad old against the amazing driving environment of an i5, though it still looks more than smart enough. A V8 5 Series that isn’t an M5 will surely depreciate for a while longer yet, though a drop has to be much easier to accept from two-thirds of the original RRP. And then it’ll be the pick of Bargain Barges, for sure… 

Engine: 4,395cc, twin-turbo V8
Transmission: 8-speed auto, all-wheel drive
Power (hp): 530@5,500rpm-6,000rpm
Torque (lb ft): 553@1,800-4,600rpm
MPG: 25.5
CO2: 235g/km
First registered: 2020
Recorded mileage: 6,696
Price new: £67,595
Yours for: £48,000