Currently sitting atop BMW’s X5 range is the 4.8is but if these latest spy shots are anything to go by there may be a new top dog in the X5 lineup - just don’t call it an M car. A performance SUV doesn’t suit the M philosophy of increased performance through reduced weight, but demand for a more powerful version of the X5 will see BMW introduce a new twin-turbo V8 model.

These latest spy shots show the car’s new front cowling, revealing much larger intakes than any previous X5 model plus a slightly revised grille.
After witnessing Porsche and AMG rack up thousands of sales with their respective Cayenne and ML models, BMW is now primed to launch its own high-performance version of the X5 SUV. We now have images of a prototype version with its engine bay completely revealed.
According to the photographer the engine featured a pair of turbochargers, which suggests this prototype is powered by BMW’s new 4.4L V8 twin-turbo engine developing maximum output of 400hp (298kW) from 5,500-6,400 rpm and 450lb-ft (600Nm) of torque between 1,800-4,500rpm.
Though no final name has been confirmed, the new SUV will probably be called the xDrive50i like the new X6 range topper. Expect similar performance with 0-60mph times of 5.3 seconds and en electronically limited top speed of 155mph.