BMW M Sport Badge Now Available For X5

Anthony Fontanelle
June 5, 2007

The BMW M Sport trim level is known for its sport-oriented features which make it a favorite among performance enthusiasts. Recently, the said derivative was introduced to BMW’s flagship - the X5. The introduction of the said badging to the luxury SUV is expected to further increase the popularity of the vehicle among SUV faithful followers.

The said trim level gives the SUV more sports-oriented features than the top of the line SE trim level. In fact, the introduction of the BMW M Sport to the X5 also introduced the newest top of the line X5.

The BMW X5 4.8i M Sport, as the top of the line X5 is called, comes equipped with a set of i9-inch V-spoke M light alloy wheels which makes the SUV more appealing. The sports suspension is also a standard feature for the M Sport badge. The presence of this suspension setting means that the vehicle became nimbler than its predecessors. The M aerodynamic styling is also part of the M Sport package. The X5 is designed to reduce drag therefore reducing the load on the engine. Exterior design cues such as the BMW grille, side and quarter panels are enhanced by the aerodynamic M styling.

Inside the luxury SUV, BMW introduced the Sports seat which resembles those used by race cars. Additional styling comes with the matte aluminum surround which accented the side window frames. Even the roof rails are improved with the M Sport package in the form of high-gloss Shadowline roof rails. Anthracite headliners also come with the M Sport package as well as the M leather steering wheel for the comfort of the driver. An optional set of 20-inch M V-spoke light alloy wheels is available for those who want bigger and flashier wheels.

The introduction of the M Sport package to the X5’s lineup comes at an appropriate time since BMW consumers are looking for sports-oriented packages. It is reported that 90 percent of X5 models sold were badged as the Sport.

The color choice for the BMW X5 M Sport is wide with six colors available. These are Alpine White, Black Sapphire, Carbon Black, Monaco Blue, Space Grey, and Titanium Silver. For the cabin of the SUV, Nevada leather upholsteries are available in different colors. Consumers can choose between Black, Grey, Beige and Saddle Brown hues to complement their exterior color choice. The interior trim color can also be changed by consumers from the standard Dark Walnut to Brushed Aluminum, Dark Bamboo or Light Poplar.

Powering the X5 M Sport is a 4.8-liter V8 engine. The powerplant is complemented by BMW’s engine technologies which are the Bi-VANOS and VALVETRONIC variable valve timing. The combination of these gives the V8 engine a power output of 355 hp. That power is enough to propel the SUV to 60 miles per hour from a standstill in just 6.5 seconds. Its top speed is rated at 150 miles per hour.

While the SUV sports a big engine, its engine technologies enable the X5 to become more fuel efficient than Porsche and Audi luxury SUVs. BMW claims that the X5 can run for 22.6 miles on a gallon of fuel in combined city and highway driving. Greenhouse gas emission is also lower than Porsche and Audi SUVs at 299 grams per kilometers traveled.