BMW X5 M

Text: Sam Hardy / Photos: Lehmann

26th January 2009

BMW’s X5M is back... Following reports that the firm had halted development, our spies got this exclusive image of the full-sized 4x4 cold weather testing.

It’s powered by a 4.4-litre twin-turbo V8, delivering in the region of 500bhp. This will give 0-60mph in about five seconds, while stiffer, lower suspension, uprated brakes and wider tyres enhance the driving experience.

A mouthwatering makeover will provide the newcomer with a look to match its performance. As well as the huge front air intakes visible in our picture, it gets engine vents and quad exhaust pipes, and will wear M badges. It’s likely to cost £60,000 from launch later this year, and a similarly powerful X6M is due to appear in 2010.