BMW announces 530hp M50i for X5 and X7
On Monday it was the M550i xDrive - now this...
In what seems like virtual confirmation of the end of days, BMW has announced the arrival of an M50i model for both the X5 and X7. So if the existing prospect of a 450hp xDrive50i was a little too 'meh' for you, there's now a 530hp version to get all excited about - while you wait 20 minutes or so for the arrival of the even more powerful X5 M and X7 M.
Predictably, the M50i badge buys you the increasingly omnipresent twin-turbocharged 4.4-litre V8 in the same state of tune as the one recently announced for the M550i. Which means that you get the same 553lb ft of torque and a 0-62mph time of 4.3 seconds for the X5 or 4.7 seconds for the larger X7.
Both cars are delivered with launch control to enable such times, alongside the eight-speed Steptronic sports auto which has been remapped for the job. BMW has also equipped the M50i variant with an electronic M Sport differential to complement the rear-bias xDrive system. The chassis has been retuned, too, with unique bushing, firmer suspension and 20-inch wheels as standard.
On the X5 you get adaptive damping, while the more expensive X7 features air springs with variable height control (though you can have the latter on the former, should you so wish). You'll get gently uprated brakes as well, although it's likely no-one will notice the blue-coated M division callipers from the outside as the manufacturer has made a number of styling tweaks to differentiate it from its non-fettled stablemates.
There are extra-large air intakes at the front, unique sills and a slightly more dramatic rear bumper to help the M50i stand out, plus BMW's individual high-gloss Shadow Line pack and 'selected design elements' in Cerium Grey. Inside you'll get the usual smattering of M logos, uprated trim materials and what sounds like a-l-o-t of leather.
No word on pricing yet, but both models will obviously sit at the top of the range until the full-blown M versions launch next year. Given that a xDrive50i is £70k and a 550hp Porsche Cayenne Turbo is £100k, it would be safe to assume that the X5 M50i will at least split the difference. We'd expect the X7 to gently undercut the six figures you'll pay for a 5.0-litre V8-powered Range Rover.
true but a nice problem to have : space or pace? When is yours being delivered? 
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