BMW has already trademarked the “555i” badge, so we can assume the first installation will take place in the 5 series, with the BMW 555i sitting below the M5. But the N63 engine’s application could range from the X5 to the new X6 as well as the 7 series.
Some have even suggested that perhaps it may find itself in the 3 series, but that would seem unlikely as it would sit above the M3.
Early reports suggest the N63 puts out roughly 300kW of power and over 610 Nm of torque. BMW, being BMW, couldn’t simply attach two turbo chargers in the traditional sense, instead, the new engine uses a new concept for the location of the turbos.
The two turbochargers are placed in the “V” section of the engine while the air-intakes are moved to the sides of the block. BMW says this process reduces overall engine size.
The intercoolers are also utilising an air-to-water system allowing for much better induction and a shorter air path to the engine.
Not much else is known about the 555i or any of the models blessed with the V8. The 5 series should receive the new model and a minor update as part of its life cycle towards the end of May (Europe).
BMW Australia spokesman Toni Andreevski told CarAdvice that so far the new engine has only been confirmed for the X6 xDrive50i which arrives into Australia in January next year.