Now we are talking. Hopefully they will give this beast some specialized colors to make it even more special. I say a LeMans Blue version and the ferric rims and I am sold. :) But for the price of this beast, there are so many proper performance cars that you can get... including the new M3. Hell you could probably get a new M3 and a used 4 runner for "off-road". LOL

Expect some M colors.

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.

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BMW X5 xdrive 50i
 

http://www.motorauthority.com/news/s...-x5-xdrive50i/

http://www.auto-motor-und-sport.de/f...4609_13999.hbs

Anyone notice that the new pics are of FEP phase.....no cladding on the front.....the new bumper.

I'm just wondering where the price point will be. And, if the ride will be as harsh as the sports model or it will be selectable - comfort to sport.

Dropped my X off at dealer for service and repairs after a break-in and asked the sales manager about when the new "IS" model will hit the US market...he says expect late 2009. Can't wait, although I could wait for it's second year before I purchase so most kinks are remedied. :popcorn:

Price will be around 5-6k more than fully loaded 4.8i.

The car is in FEP phase now so don't think it will be late 2009. BMW is bringing quite a few changes to X5 line-up in spring 2009. So if it does not happen in fall 2008, then spring 2009 is the time with press release later this year.

So is this the Cayenne Turbo killer?

That title will go to X6 M.