The BMW 5 Series Touring (F11 LCI), specifically the 550i variant with the Steptronic automatic transmission, represents the pinnacle of performance and luxury within the F11 generation of BMW’s iconic wagon. Produced from 2013 to 2017, this facelifted model (LCI stands for Lebenszyklusimpuls, or Life Cycle Impulse in German) offered a compelling blend of practicality, driving dynamics, and sophisticated technology. Positioned as the range-topping engine option for the 5 Series Touring, the 550i catered to buyers seeking a high-performance estate car without compromising on comfort or refinement. It served as a direct competitor to other high-end performance wagons like the Audi RS6 Avant and Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG Estate.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | BMW |
| Model | 5 Series |
| Generation | 5 Series Touring (F11 LCI, Facelift 2013) |
| Type (Engine) | 550i (450 Hp) Steptronic |
| Start of production | 2013 |
| End of production | 2017 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Station wagon (estate) |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 12.3-12.7 l/100 km (19.1 – 18.5 US mpg, 23 – 22.2 UK mpg, 8.1 – 7.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 6.9-7.1 l/100 km (34.1 – 33.1 US mpg, 40.9 – 39.8 UK mpg, 14.5 – 14.1 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 8.8-9.1 l/100 km (26.7 – 25.8 US mpg, 32.1 – 31 UK mpg, 11.4 – 11 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 206-213 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 4.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 4.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 4.5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 4.3 kg/Hp, 233.8 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3 kg/Nm, 337.7 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 450 Hp @ 5500-6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 102.4 Hp/l |
| Torque | 650 Nm @ 2000-4500 rpm (479.42 lb.-ft. @ 2000-4500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | N63B44B |
| 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 | 11.6 l (12.26 US qt | 10.21 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1925 kg (4243.9 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2555 kg (5632.81 lbs.) |
| Max load | 630 kg (1388.91 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.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 12.0 m (39.37 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 N63B44B engine, a 4.4-liter twin-turbocharged V8. This engine, a member of the N63 family, utilizes direct fuel injection and Valvetronic variable valve timing to optimize both power and efficiency. The twin-turbochargers, positioned within the V of the engine, minimize turbo lag and provide a broad, flat torque curve. The engine produces 450 horsepower at 5,500-6,000 rpm and a substantial 650 Nm (479 lb-ft) of torque between 2,000 and 4,500 rpm. This power is channeled through an eight-speed Steptronic automatic transmission, known for its smooth and quick shifts. The transmission features steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters for manual control, allowing drivers to engage more directly with the powertrain.
Driving Characteristics
The 550i Touring delivers a remarkably refined yet potent driving experience. The combination of the powerful V8 and the eight-speed automatic results in effortless acceleration. The 0-60 mph sprint takes approximately 4.5 seconds, making it a genuinely quick wagon. The Steptronic transmission is well-tuned to the engine’s characteristics, providing seamless gear changes during both relaxed cruising and spirited driving. Compared to the 528i or 535i models, the 550i offers a significantly more responsive and engaging driving experience, with a noticeable increase in power and torque across the entire rev range. While not as overtly sporty as some of its rivals, the 550i prioritizes a balance of performance and comfort, making it an excellent grand tourer.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 550i Touring came standard with a comprehensive array of features, reflecting its position as the flagship model. Standard equipment typically included leather upholstery, power-adjustable front seats with memory function, a premium sound system, a navigation system, and a sunroof. Optional extras included features like adaptive cruise control, a head-up display, ventilated front seats, and a rear-seat entertainment system. The interior trim could be customized with various wood or aluminum accents. The LCI facelift brought subtle updates to the interior, including revised switchgear and improved iDrive infotainment system.
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 equipped with larger brakes than the lower-trim models, featuring ventilated discs at all four corners. The standard suspension setup offered a good balance between comfort and handling, while optional adaptive suspension systems allowed drivers to adjust the damping characteristics to suit their preferences. The steering is precise and well-weighted, providing good feedback to the driver.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 550i Touring was generally well-received by automotive critics, who praised its powerful engine, refined ride, and spacious interior. However, some reviewers noted that the fuel economy was relatively poor compared to the four-cylinder and six-cylinder models. Compared to the 535i, the 550i offered a significant performance upgrade, but at a higher price point. The 550i also provided a more luxurious and refined experience than the more performance-focused M5.
Legacy
The N63B44B engine, while powerful, has been known to require careful maintenance, particularly regarding cooling system components and turbocharger health. Early versions of the N63 engine were prone to oil leaks and cooling system failures, but these issues were largely addressed in later iterations. Today, well-maintained 550i Touring models represent a compelling value for buyers seeking a high-performance, luxurious wagon. The combination of a potent V8 engine, a spacious interior, and a comfortable ride makes it a desirable choice in the used car market, though potential buyers should be aware of the engine’s maintenance requirements and factor those costs into their ownership plans.
