There’s a story in Road & Track last week about how BMW will be introducing a new series of limited run luxury cars, including a big one for the Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este in May. The Concept Skytop (below) is an example of this, released last year.
The risk with limited edition or true bespoke models is loyalty to the brand. BMW drivers love BMWs. For example, the company introduced several upgrades to BMW 5 Series models for 2025 – interior upgrades like ambient lighting for all models, the BMW Interaction Bar featuring a crystalline surface as standard, lumbar support for both front seats, and the Harman Kardon HiFi loudspeaker system.
The 2025 BMW 550e xDrive is a plug-in hybrid sedan that blends performance, efficiency, and luxury with several standout features. Going forward, as technology continues to improve, hybrids overall are the way to go:
BMW Concept Skytop
Luxury Cars: Powertrain and Performance
The BMW550e xDrive combines a 3.0-liter inline-six engine with an electric motor for a total output of 483 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque, hitting 0-60 mph in about 4.1 seconds. The fifth-generation eDrive system offers up to 33 miles of electric-only range, ideal for daily commutes, with seamless transitions between electric and gas modes. Like we’ve said in the past, though, invest in a home charging unit for the car, to really leverage city drives using the battery.
Unique Hybrid Design
The digital instrument cluster on the BMW Curved Display highlights hybrid-specific data like charge status and electric range. The My BMW App allows remote preconditioning, range monitoring, and charging scheduling for added convenience.
Luxurious Interior
The cabin features premium upholstery options, including vegan-friendly Veganza, and customizable trims. Available enhancements like the Luxury Seating Package add heated, ventilated, and massaging front seats. The optional Executive Package includes glass controls, a panoramic Sky Lounge roof, and a head-up display, elevating the upscale feel.
Advanced Technology
Standard features include the iDrive 8.5 system with a 14.9-inch touchscreen, augmented reality navigation, and natural voice interaction. The optional Active Driving Assistant Pro adds hands-free highway driving and eye-activated lane changes, a novel touch for effortless cruising.
Luxury Cars: Charging Convenience
The BMW 550e xDrive comes with a Flexible Fast Charger for 120V or 240V outlets, with a full charge in 3-4 hours at 240V. The BMW Wallbox option enhances home charging, and public Level 2 chargers are easily located via the app or navigation.
Exclusive Styling
The available Iconic Glow kidney grille and Dynamic Light Carpet add distinctive visual flair, lighting up the exterior for a striking presence, especially at night.
These elements make the 550e xDrive a compelling mix of eco-conscious performance and cutting-edge luxury, though its suspension may feel firm for some, leaning toward sporty over plush.
Overall, a great ride over the week, for someone who’s been warming up to hybrid luxury cars, over the past year.
Images: Mark Keast
I am a 50-something Torontonian who loves everything about my city. It’s been my home, my playground, for my entire life. I went to school here. I met my wife here. I own real estate here. I love writing about the transformation of my city on the world stage, which hasn’t been anything short of dramatic. That continues on, as I write this. I write on the real estate scene. I write on travel and fashion. I like following the world of luxury watches.
But I love writing about cars – check that, luxury cars, a level of superior, engineering sophistication, high performance and style, that transports you not just from one destination to another but also out of whatever you are going through on a particular day, whatever mood you are in, all to another head space. It’s complete and total exhilaration, head to toe.
Check out my stories, and email me direct at mkeast@regardingluxury.com
