Thanks @TerminatorX5 - good feedback.

I'm pretty aware that the fuel consumption on the 4.8is will have hippies chasing me down the road! I'm probably more or less looking for a comment from an Australian 4.6/4.8is owner to tell me 'it's not THAT bad' and worth the trade-off for the power/noise......or, alternatively, to come in and tell me that they cry themselves to sleep at night thinking about the price of fuel. Based on the manufacturers consumption figures, it's not too bad - but I know that in the real world they're probably a lot lot worse.

Diesels command a higher price premium in Australia, and it's quite clearly because they are much more affordable to run. But I've done a basic cost analysis, and based on the factory consumption figures and my estimated km's/per year - it would take me 6 years to break even on a $32k diesel vs a $26k 4.8is (not allowing for maintenance costs).

As for colours, I'm pretty set on LMB. I love that colour. We also get the 4.8is in space grey here which I've read is not available in all markets - but it just doesn't have the same impact.

If i were to go for a diesel, it would only be a Le Mans Edition, similar to this:

2006 BMW X5 E53 d MY06 Steptronic


As you can see, aside from the lower skirts/wheel arch flares and exhaust outlets - it looks pretty much identical to a 4.8is minus the troublesome air suspension......! If only it went and sounded like a V8.....