Need some advice from the x50i folks

[Nolimite39]

Hello all, for those that have never ran into me, feel blessed. . . I joke I joke, I kid I kid.

I generally spend my time in the E53 section as I own Dinan Supercharged 4.6iS that I daily drive (hence the sig). The 4.6 is getting on in age and is not the best for DD duty, especially given my commute is generally pretty long. So I am looking to replace it and consolidate our extended stable some by selling our 335i as well (but that's another story).

So here's the question, those of you that own the 50i, what are your experiences, recommendations, warnings, etc? I know the MPGs aren't great but given most of my commute is 95% freeway and usually before rush hour so its a steady cruise, I think I can stomach 21mpg. Also the 4.6 has a ~5.0 0-60 and feels like a supercharged V8. Is the performance of the 50i palpable? Does it feel like a TTV8 or has BMW muted it for luxury? A tune and supporting mods are very likely if I do end up with one so I could be looking at increased power levels but I want something that'll keep me happy out of the box for a year or so.

Thanks.
AG