Rumors are now spreading rampantly since BMW released its teaser video of the first-ever BMW M Diesel in the form of their X6 crossover. It is now widely believed that the X6 M50d will come with a tri-turbo, six-cylinder diesel powerplant pushing out 381-hp with a healthy 545 lb-ft of torque.

The folks over at BMWBlog are also reporting that the X6 M50d will go 0-62 mph in 4.9-seconds and that production of the model will begin April of 2012. An option for the X6 M50d also leaked out; the M division will also offer a revised front hood.

Perhaps even more interesting is that BMW’s M550d xDrive will feature the same powerplant, making it go 0-62 mph in just 4.7-seconds and could get 38-mpg. The M550d is expected to go into production in March 2012 but will only be offered in Europe. Whether or not the X6 M50d shares the same fate is unknown, but given how slowly diesels are being embraced in America, we shouldn’t hold our breath.

[Source: BMW Blog]

For some people, BMW‘s E92 M3 coupe is a near-perfect vehicle. It offers great looks, a BMW driving experience, luxury, sportiness and the unmistakable performance that only an M-series can offer. But to some, 420-hp out of the M3′s V8 might not be enough to satisfy their needs. That’s where Manhart Racing comes in, transplanting the M3′s much bigger brother’s X6M powerplant into the sport coupe chassis. That’s right, the thrill of a twin turbo M3 coupe can now be experienced.

By replacing the M3′s V8 with BMW’s X6M powerplant, Manhart Racing was able to squeeze plenty of extra horsepower thanks to its twin turbo forced induction. With some ECU modifications and a new exhaust, the M3 puts out 724-hp and 641 ft-lbs of torque.

To back up the power, Manhart Racing also added some carbon fiber components, suspension upgrades, and a lightweight set of BBS wheels.

Check out a video of the V8RS after the break.

[Source: Topspeed]

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One of the BMW X6′s biggest criticisms, the lack of a fifth seat, will be put to bed starting this spring, as the coupe-like crossover will have the option of a fifth seat, making it slightly more functional but no less confusing.

Along with new 20″ dubs and interior leather choices (as well as some new interior lighting), the fifth seat represents the major changes coming for the X6. A notable exception is the X6 ActiveHybrid, which will remain a four seater only.

Hit the jump to read the official press release

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BMW‘s M division saw sales of its sports cars increase by 14.2 percent in 2010, to 16,967 units. The M3 remained the brand’s most popular car, with the coupe, sedan and convertible making up 10,116 units. In second place was the X6M with 3,082 units and X5M with 2,778 units.

The US led the world in M car consumption, followed by Germany and the UK. Fastest growing markets were China (up 355 percent), Brazil (237 percent) and Russia (104 percent). With the way the global economy is going, don’t be surprised to see those three countries make up the top three markets by sales volume in the near future.

[Source: Carscoop]