SHOWDOWN: 2011 BMW 550i vs. 2011 Infiniti M56

In the highly competitive midsize sport sedan segment, it's easy to conclude that the two sportiest models are likely the BMW 550i and Infiniti M56.

Both are aiming to please two different types of buyers: consumers looking for luxury and comfort, while also pleasing enthusiasts that want to tool around with kids in the backseat. Although BMW has been able to hold onto this market for a solid amount of time, these newly revamped products offer the best of each respective manufacturer.

The question is, however, "Who can effectively balance luxury and sport?"


When it comes to respectability in the midsize sport sedan segment, all roads lead through BMW's 5 Series. It's been ruling this class for decades now, and for good reason. It has the uncanny ability to satisfy both driving enthusiasts and buyers who are simply looking for a luxury sedan with German cachet.

Now that the all-new twin-turbo 2011 BMW 550i is here, it was time to see just how well it stacks up against its newest competitors. But instead of going toe-to-toe with a classic European rival, we figured a match-up with the latest from Japan would be more interesting. For that we turned to the all-new 2011 Infiniti M56, a thoroughly redesigned sedan that is once again aiming for the Germans. It has all the makings of a worthy competitor, but how does it hold up on the road...