The BMW 5 Series Touring (F11) 550i Steptronic, produced from 2011 to 2013, represents the high-performance end of the F11 5 Series wagon lineup. Positioned as a premium offering, it combined the practicality of a touring body style with the power of BMW’s potent V8 engine. This variant aimed to deliver a luxurious and engaging driving experience, appealing to buyers who desired both space and performance. It was part of the sixth generation of the 5 Series (F10/F11), which introduced significant advancements in technology, efficiency, and driving dynamics compared to its predecessor.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | BMW |
| Model | 5 Series |
| Generation | 5 Series Touring (F11) |
| Type (Engine) | 550i (407 Hp) Steptronic |
| Start of production | 2011 |
| End of production | 2013 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Station wagon (estate) |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban | 15.8 l/100 km (14.9 US mpg, 17.9 UK mpg, 6.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban | 7.7-7.8 l/100 km (30.5 – 30.2 US mpg, 36.7 – 36.2 UK mpg, 13 – 12.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined | 10.7 l/100 km (22 US mpg, 26.4 UK mpg, 9.3 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 249-250 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 5.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 5.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 4.8 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 4.7 kg/Hp, 214.2 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.2 kg/Nm, 315.8 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 407 Hp @ 5500-6400 rpm |
| Power per litre | 92.6 Hp/l |
| Torque | 600 Nm @ 1750-4500 rpm (442.54 lb.-ft. @ 1750-4500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | N63B44A |
| Engine displacement | 4395 cm3 (268.2 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 89 mm (3.5 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 88.3 mm (3.48 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Twin-power turbo, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 8.5 l (8.98 US qt | 7.48 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 11.4 l (12.05 US qt | 10.03 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1900 kg (4188.78 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2540 kg (5599.74 lbs.) |
| Max load | 640 kg (1410.96 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 560 l (19.78 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1670 l (58.98 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 70 l (18.49 US gal | 15.4 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 100 kg (220.46 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 2000 kg (4409.25 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 90 kg (198.42 lbs.) |
| Length | 4907 mm (193.19 in.) |
| Width | 1860 mm (73.23 in.) |
| Height | 1462 mm (57.56 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2968 mm (116.85 in.) |
| Front track | 1600 mm (62.99 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1626 mm (64.02 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 141 mm (5.55 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.33 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.95 m (39.21 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 8 gears, automatic transmission Steptronic |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 245/45 R18; 245/40 R19 |
| Wheel rims size | 8J x 18; 8.5J x 19 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the 550i Touring is BMW’s N63B44A 4.4-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine. This engine, a significant departure from naturally aspirated designs, utilizes direct fuel injection and variable valve timing (Valvetronic) to optimize performance and efficiency. The twin-turbochargers, positioned within the V of the engine, minimize turbo lag and provide a broad torque curve. The engine produces 407 horsepower at 5,500-6,400 rpm and a substantial 600 Nm (442 lb-ft) of torque between 1,750 and 4,500 rpm. This power is delivered to the rear wheels through an eight-speed Steptronic automatic transmission. The Steptronic transmission offers both fully automatic operation and manual gear selection via steering wheel-mounted paddles, allowing drivers to tailor the driving experience to their preferences.
Driving Characteristics
The 550i Touring’s combination of a powerful V8 and an eight-speed automatic transmission results in impressive acceleration. The 0-60 mph sprint takes approximately 4.8 seconds, and the car is electronically limited to a top speed of 155 mph. The Steptronic transmission provides smooth and quick gear changes, contributing to a refined driving experience. While not as overtly sporty as some of its rivals, the 550i Touring offers a comfortable and capable ride, with ample power for overtaking and effortless cruising. Compared to the 535i models (with their inline-six engines), the 550i provides a more substantial surge of power, particularly at lower engine speeds. The increased weight over the 535i is noticeable, but the V8’s torque helps to mitigate any perceived sluggishness.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 550i Touring typically came well-equipped as standard. Common features included leather upholstery, power-adjustable front seats with memory function, a premium sound system, a navigation system, and automatic climate control. Optional extras included features like adaptive cruise control, a head-up display, and upgraded interior trim options. The F11 5 Series also offered a range of driver assistance systems, such as lane departure warning and blind-spot monitoring, which could be added as options. The interior design was characterized by a driver-focused layout and high-quality materials.
Chassis & Braking
The F11 5 Series Touring features a double-wishbone front suspension and an independent multi-link rear suspension, providing a comfortable and controlled ride. The 550i typically came with larger brakes than the lower-trim models, featuring ventilated discs at all four corners. Anti-lock brakes (ABS), dynamic stability control (DSC), and traction control were standard safety features. The suspension was tuned to balance comfort and handling, offering a composed ride even when carrying a full load.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 550i Touring was generally well-received by automotive critics, who praised its powerful engine, refined ride, and spacious interior. However, its fuel consumption was often cited as a drawback, particularly compared to the more fuel-efficient six-cylinder models. The 550i Touring competed with other high-performance luxury wagons, such as the Audi RS6 Avant and the Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG Estate. While these rivals offered even more aggressive performance, the 550i Touring provided a more balanced combination of luxury, practicality, and performance.
Legacy
The N63B44A engine, while powerful, has been known to require careful maintenance, particularly regarding cooling system components and turbocharger health. Early versions of the engine were prone to oil leaks and cooling system failures, but these issues were largely addressed in later revisions. Today, well-maintained 550i Touring models can offer a rewarding ownership experience, providing a unique blend of performance and practicality. However, potential buyers should be aware of the engine’s potential maintenance requirements and factor those costs into their ownership calculations. The F11 5 Series Touring, and particularly the 550i variant, remains a desirable vehicle for enthusiasts seeking a luxurious and capable wagon.
