BMW sets $64,725 price for 2010 550i Gran Turismo in US
BMW’s 550i Gran Turismo, the first 5 Series GT to reach the US, will arrive in December 2009 with a twin-turbo V8 and an extensive options list.
BMW has confirmed US pricing for the 2010 550i Gran Turismo, setting the base MSRP at $64,725 including destination and handling. The new model, which marks the arrival of the 5 Series Gran Turismo in North America, will be available at dealerships from 5 December 2009.
The 550i Gran Turismo launches as a new body style in the 5 Series range, combining elements of a saloon, estate and crossover. It offers seating for five and a flexible luggage area, accessed by a dual-access tailgate that can open either as a conventional boot or as a full hatch. BMW positions the model as a luxury alternative to traditional saloons and estates, with a focus on comfort and versatility.
Engine, performance and transmission
At the heart of the 550i Gran Turismo is BMW’s 4.4-litre twin-turbocharged V8, producing 400 horsepower and 450 lb-ft of torque. Power is delivered to the rear wheels through an eight-speed automatic gearbox, a first for BMW at the time. The company claims a 0–60 mph acceleration time of 5.4 seconds, placing the 550i GT among the quicker luxury hatchbacks on the market in 2009.
Options and packages
BMW is offering a wide range of option packages and standalone features for the 550i Gran Turismo. Buyers can specify the Luxury Rear Seating Package at $3,950, which transforms the rear compartment for two passengers with additional comfort features. Other notable packages include the Sport Package ($4,200), Active Ventilated-seat Package ($2,950), and Driver Assistance Package ($1,350).
- Active Ventilated-seat Package: $2,950
- Back-up Camera Package: $750
- Convenience Package: $1,900
- Cold Weather Package: $950
- Driver Assistance Package: $1,350
- Luxury Rear Seating Package: $3,950
- Premium Sound Package: $1,400
- Sport Package: $4,200
- Nappa Leather Package: $1,000
Standalone options include 20-inch wheels with performance tyres ($1,000), Integral Active Steering ($1,750), multi-contour seats ($1,300), and a rear seat entertainment system ($2,200). Technology features such as night vision with pedestrian detection ($2,600), head-up display ($1,300), and smartphone integration ($150) are also available.
Market context and alternatives
The 550i Gran Turismo enters a segment with few direct rivals, targeting buyers who want more space and flexibility than a standard 5 Series saloon but greater luxury than a typical estate. Its closest competitors at launch include higher-end versions of the Mercedes-Benz R-Class and the Audi A7, though the latter would not reach the US market until later. For more on the 5 Series Gran Turismo’s body style and interior flexibility, see BMW launches 5 Series Gran Turismo with new body style and flexible interior.
