First Oz look: 4.8is tops BMW X5 range

BMW Australia used the Melbourne motor show to reveal local pricing and specifications for the new flagship of its recently facelifted X5 off-roader line-up.

Priced at $157,300, the X5 range-topper will hit BMW showrooms around mid-year as a direct rival for luxury SUVs like the $139,900 Mercedes-Benz ML55 AMG, Porsche’s Cayenne pairing (S: $136,900, Turbo: $204,390) and Range Rover, which ranges between $114,900 and $155,900.

Headlining the Australian X5 4.8is specification is a 265kW 4.8-litre V8 that delivers 0-100km/h acceleration in 6.1 seconds and a top speed of 246km/h.

Replacing the original 255kW 4.6is X5 flagship and available only in limited numbers, X5 4.8is features greater performance and a subtle bodykit incorporating a new front air-dam.

Like the X5 3.0i petrol, 3.0d turbo-diesel and 4.4i V8 models released in February – in the first facelift since X5 was launched here in November 2000 - X5 4.8is models also feature a five-star Euro NCAP crash test safety rating, six-speed automatic ZF transmission and X3’s new infinitely-variable xDrive “intelligent” all-wheel drive system.

The only X5 to offer BMW’s new Adaptive Headlight system as standard, 4.8is will line up alongside the 3.0i ($81,400 six-speed manual, $84,000 five-speed auto), 3.0d ($81,900 six-speed manual, $84,500 six-speed auto) and 4.4i ($111,800 six-speed auto).