BMW has revealed details of its new range-topping X5 4.8i M Sport. Powered by the same 4.8-litre V8 engine found in the X5 4.8i, the M Sport features an assortment of add-ons, including new 19-inch V-spoke M light alloy wheels, a sports suspension, aerodynamic body-side cladding, a matt aluminium surround to the side window frames and high-gloss 'Shadowline' roof rails. There will also be a 20-inch alloy wheel upgrade available for those who wish to further differentiate their cars (and likely deteriorate the ride quality further).

On the inside, sports seats, an anthracite-coloured headliner and an M steering wheel are fitted to the already well-appointed interior, which can be specified with one of three different wood trims or adorned with brushed aluminium to denote the car's enhanced sporting virtues.

According to BMW, the introduction of the M Sport model has been eagerly awaited by buyers who specified 90 per cent of the previous models with the Sport package. The 4.8-litre engine (fitted with Bi-VANOS and VALVETRONIC variable valve control and timing technologies) is a strong performer, capable of propelling the X5 from zero to 62mph in 6.5 seconds and achieving a top speed of 150mph, but it is also surprisingly economical (all things are relative). BMW claims the powerplant returns 22.6mpg on the Combined Cycle and emits 299g/km of CO₂, bettering rival products from Porsche and Audi.

The new sports-orientated X5 M Sport is now on sale for £53,440 on-the-road, with the M Sport package becoming available on best-selling 3.0d diesel and the 3.0si petrol model later in 2007.

Eric Gallina - 7 Jun 2007