Next Gen 4.8is?
 

Hi, my first post. Great forum. :thumbup:

Wondering the following:

1. When is the next generation 4.8is coming out in the U.S.?
2. What is the expected HP output and any other performance numbers?
3. Will there be a 3rd row option like in the current 4.8i? Hope so.

Any and all answers appreciated!

GBG

Probably won't happen with the highly anticipated X6 coming out. We'll all have to sit back and wait......Phil

That's a bummer if true because the X6 looks F'UGLY in all the pics I've seen! Also, I'm really looking for a car with a 3rd row option (hoping the next gen 4.8is has this option like its little brother the new 4.8i.)

There are some on this board who know more specifics than I do; but here is what I've heard (for what it's worth):

Yes, an "is" will come out and it will probably be a 2009 model that is released in late 2008 - probably along with the first of two mid-cycle face lifts. It will start with a fully loaded E70 Sport then add some upgraded performance items. I hear the engine will be a twin-turbo V8 with ~ 410HP.

I imagine the third row would still be available.

Thanks CGSTL, that's helpful. I do hope that we see more than 410 hp. It'd be a shame if BMW's top performing SUV (SAV) remains so far behind even today's Cayenne Turbo (450 hp) and Turbo S (520 hp).

if they do 3rd row seats on a 4.8IS car, then BMW totally lost it :loco:

I agree 410hp and 3 rows of seats don't sound very appealing

BMW is not targeting X5 as Cayenne fighter. That role is for X6 and top end X6 will have new V10 with more HP than current M5.
http://www.xoutpost.com/x5-e70-forum/...spy-shots.html

Thanks LeMans. Your link eventually gets you to an article that describes an upcomimg X5 "M" varient with a likely "V12 engine from BMW's 760i delivering 438 bhp." That wouldn't be too bad, but still below what I was hoping for (>500 hp). There's no word on timing ('08 or '09?). Thanks.

As far as a third row, I'm just wondering if it will be an option like it is in the current 4.8i. If not, I'd probably put my money into a low mileaged CPO'd '06 Cayenne Turbo S (520 hp) before buying a new X5 at 438 hp.

What's the difference between the designations i, is, and si???

I know x in xi for 3 or 5 series is all wheel drive....

L in 750Li is for long wheel base??

But no idea what i in every BMW (except M) means either....