BMW has revealed details of its new M Performance range, the X5 M50d, X6 M50d, the 5-Series-based M550d sedan and M550d touring, adding a new triple-turbo diesel engine and enhancements to each model’s handling and technical packages. All three will officially debut at the 2012 Geneva motor show in March.

All four cars are powered by BMW’s new triple-turbo common-rail diesel: a 3.0 litre six-cylinder engine that produces 280 kW and 740 Nm of torque from 2 000 r/min. BMW says the three turbochargers – one large turbo and two smaller ones – ensure maximum power delivery across a wide rev band. The new engine provides an extra 50 kW and 110 Nm over the unit found in the 535d.

Matched with an eight-speed automatic Sports transmission and BMW’s xDrive all-wheel-drive system, the engine gives the M550d a 0 – 100 km/h time of 4.7 seconds for the sedan and 4.9 seconds for the touring. Fuel consumption is rated at 6.3 and 6.4 L/100km respectively. The X5 M50d accelerates from 0 – 100km/h in 5.4 seconds and uses 7.5 L/100km, while the X6 M50d is one-tenth quicker to 100 km/h (5.3 seconds) and burns through 7.7 L/100km.

All three models receive subtle exterior aerodynamic and styling enhancements, including grey metallic mirrors and air intake bars, trapezoidal exhaust pipes and high-gloss alloy wheels (19-inch units for the M550d and 20-inch for the SUVs). The interior is highlighted with Alcantara upholstery elements, contrast stitching, BMW M steering wheel with paddle shifters, and aluminium trim inserts.

The M Performance range will hit European showrooms in April and a South African debut is expected later this year – but not for the M550d. The triple-turbo diesel in the M550d is fitted in conjunction with BMW’s xDrive all-wheel drive system, which is not available for the 5 Series in right-hand-drive cars, meaning we won’t see the sedan version here in SA.