Best Car Reviews - 2013 BMW 550i xDrive Gran Turismo

Introduction

The 2013 BMW 550i xDrive Gran Turismo is more than just a car; it's a statement of luxury, performance, and versatility. Released in the early 2010s, this model targets driving enthusiasts who crave BMW's signature blend of power and elegance but require the practicality of a large car. What truly sets this model apart is its unique Gran Turismo design, offering an unparalleled combination of sedan agility with hatchback utility.

Design and Exterior Features

The BMW 550i xDrive Gran Turismo boasts a distinctive design that merges sporty aesthetics with functional beauty. Its prominent grille and sleek, elongated shape give it a commanding presence on the road. The vehicle's design is a testament to BMW's commitment to luxury and performance, with several notable features:

Dynamic kidney grille with active shutters for improved aerodynamics.
Stylish LED adaptive headlights offering excellent visibility and an aggressive look.
Panoramic sunroof that enhances the sense of spaciousness.
19-inch alloy wheels which add to the car's athletic build.
Integrated rear spoiler for reduced aerodynamic lift.

Interior and Comfort

Step inside the 550i xDrive Gran Turismo, and you're greeted with a cabin that exudes high-end luxury and attention to detail. The interior space is meticulously crafted using premium materials, ensuring both driver and passengers experience top-tier comfort.

High-quality leather upholstery with adjustable heated seats.
Generous legroom and headspace due to its unique body style.
Sophisticated wood and metallic trim accents elevating the interior aesthetic.
Dual-zone climate control for personalized comfort.
Harman Kardon sound system providing crystal clear audio quality.

Performance and Handling

Equipped with a powerful V8 engine featuring SIDI technology, the BMW 550i xDrive Gran Turismo is built for a dynamic driving experience. The vehicle's 4.4-liter engine produces an impressive 450 horsepower, enabling swift acceleration, achieving 0 to 100 km/h in just 4.8 seconds.

All-Wheel Drive system ensures superior traction and stability.
Adaptive Drive suspension integrates Dynamic Damping Control and Active Roll Stabilization.
Provides an engaging driving experience in both city and highway settings.
Fuel consumption is approximately 15.66 l/100 km.
Sports automatic transmission (S8) enhances both performance and comfort.

Technology and Connectivity

BMW has equipped the 550i xDrive Gran Turismo with an extensive array of technology and connectivity features designed to enhance the driving experience.

iDrive infotainment system with 9.7-inch display for seamless control.
Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free calls and audio streaming.
Navigation system with real-time traffic updates.
Premium sound system with USB and auxiliary ports.
Driver assistance technologies including parking sensors and a rear-view camera.

Safety Features

The BMW 550i xDrive Gran Turismo prioritizes passenger safety by integrating both standard and advanced features to protect its occupants.

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) and Electronic Stability Control (ESC).
Multiple airbags for driver and passenger protection.
Lane Departure Warning and Blind Spot Detection.
Crumple zones strategically engineered to absorb impact.
Earned high ratings in crash tests for frontal and side impacts.

Pricing and Variants

The base price for the 2013 BMW 550i xDrive Gran Turismo starts around $69,000 USD. While the price positions it in the upper echelons of the large car category, it is competitive considering its combination of luxury and performance. Compared to competitors in its class, such as the Audi A7 and Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class, the Gran Turismo offers a unique luxury-hatch alternative at a similar price point.

Pros and Cons

Pros

Exquisite interior loaded with luxury touches.
Punchy V8 engine with outstanding performance.
Advanced tech and connectivity suite.
Versatile cargo space with hatchback utility.
Exceptionally smooth ride quality.

Cons

Higher fuel consumption relative to competitors.
Base price on the expensive side for the class.
Some may find the design polarizing.
Limited rear visibility due to the sloping roofline.
Maintenance costs can be steep compared to non-premium brands.

Maintenance and Common Issues

Owning a BMW 550i xDrive Gran Turismo involves regular maintenance with an estimated annual cost of around $1,200 USD. Owners should be aware of a few common issues:

Oil leaks due to valve cover gasket failure.
Suspension issues related to wear and tear.
Occasional electrical problems in the infotainment system.
Water pump failure requiring timely replacements.
Potential timing chain issues on higher mileage vehicles.

Rating

The 2013 BMW 550i xDrive Gran Turismo receives an overall rating of 8.5 out of 10, breaking down as follows:

Design: 9/10
Comfort: 9/10
Performance: 8.5/10
Technology: 8/10
Safety: 8/10

User Reviews and Feedback

"Incredibly smooth ride with a powerful engine. The interior luxury is unmatched!" - John D.
"Fuel efficiency could be better, but that's expected with such a powerful V8." - Sarah P.
"The panoramic sunroof is a huge plus, making drives so much better." - Alex R.
"Some electrical quirks, but overall, the car feels solid and dependable." - Lisa G.
"Expensive to maintain but worth every penny for its performance and luxury." - Mark T.

Best Cars in This Category

2013 Audi A7
2013 Mercedes-Benz CLS550
2013 Jaguar XF
2013 Lexus GS 450h
2013 Infiniti Q70

Summary

The 2013 BMW 550i xDrive Gran Turismo is ideal for luxury car enthusiasts who value performance and need the functional utility of a hatchback. Offering a blend of refined elegance and spirited driving, it delivers significant value in its class. This model stands out for its unique design, elevated comfort, and advanced technology features, making it an excellent choice for drivers seeking a blend of sportiness, luxury, and practicality.