These are the first images of the new-generation BMW M550i xDrive shot out in the open, and at a glance, it almost looks like it’s trying to fool us.

Sure enough, you’ve got the xDrive badge and the 550i inscription at the back, both covered in vinyl, and a small patch of camouflage on the sides to cover the M logo, which is curiously missing from the rear. By the way, the exterior color is called Mediterranean Blue Metalli.

These images come courtesy of BimmerToday and their reader Todor who spotted the new-generation mid-size premium saloon in a parking lot. Presumably, we’re looking at a pre-production model because it’s missing the 19″ Cerium Grey M-wheels as well as the Cerium Grey exterior mirror housings.

The rest of the car is clearly equipped with the M Sport package, featuring a custom front spoiler with large air intakes, a subtle rear deck lid spoiler and rectangular tailpipes. While we can’t see the interior, it should have a three-spoke leather steering wheel, aluminum pedal covers and footrest, bespoke floor mats and a SensaTec upholstered dash.

The M550i xDrive’s might comes from a 4.4-liter biturbo V8 engine, sending 462 PS and 650 Nm (479 lb-ft) of torque to all four wheels, with the Germans claiming a 0-100 km/h (62 mph) run in 4 seconds flat. At the same time, BMW estimates a combined fuel consumption figure of just 8.9 liters/100km (31.7 mpg imp), which is an improvement of 0.3 liters/100 km over the outgoing M550i model.

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