BMW adds potent, M-tuned M50i to X5 and X7 range

Set to arrive in South Africa from October, the unit is carried over from the M850i xDrive with a power output of 390 kW and torque of 750 N.m. Teamed to the familiar eight-speed sport Steptronic gearbox and xDrive all-wheel-drive, the setup, with the aid of Launch Control, will allow the X5 to accelerate from 0-100 km/h in 4.3 seconds and the X7 in 4.7 seconds with both being limited to 250 km/h.

Riding as standard on 21-inch M light alloy wheels with 22-inches optional, changes underneath the skin of both consists of blue M Sport brake callipers, the Adaptive M suspension on the X5 with two modes; Comfort and Sport, and the optional active rear wheel steering system. An option on the X5 however, the X7 comes fitted as standard with the Adaptive M air suspension and from the options list, the Executive Drive Pro system.

Visually, both models are distinguished from their sibling thanks to larger front air intakes, an updated rear apron and wider door sills, Cerium Grey accents and high-gloss Shadow Line detailing, while on the inside, both are receive the M leather wrapped steering and gear lever with M badging, Fineline Black wood inserts with a high gloss finish, Vernasca leather with contrasting stitching, illuminated M50i door sills and in the case of the X5, tetragon aluminium strips, an anthracite roofliner and optional Hi-Fi sound system. The X7 meanwhile adds an Alcantara anthracite roofliner and a Harman Kardon surround sound system to the standard specification list

PRICING

X5

X7