BMW’s ever-popular M Sport derivative is to be introduced to the new BMW X5 range for the first time.

On sale now, the new flagship offers customers a substantial level of sports-orientated standard equipment when compared to SE specification to offer a distinctive and dynamic range-topping model.

The new BMW X5 4.8i M Sport comes equipped with 19-inch V-spoke M light alloy wheels, Sports suspension, M Aerodynamic body styling, Sports seats, matt aluminium surround to the side window frames, high-gloss Shadowline roof rails, Anthracite headlining and M leather steering wheel.

Customers wishing to further differentiate their cars can also choose to upgrade to 20-inch M V-spoke light alloy wheels.

The introduction of M Sport to the BMW X5 range has been eagerly awaited by buyers as 90 per cent of the previous models sold were specified as a Sport.

The new BMW X5 4.8i M Sport will be available in six colours: Alpine White, Black Sapphire, Carbon Black, Monaco Blue, Space Grey, Titanium Silver. Inside and Nevada leather upholstery is standard and is available in Black, Grey, Beige and Saddle Brown hues. Dark Walnut interior trim is standard on the X5 4.8i M Sport but customers can specify Brushed Aluminium, Dark Bamboo or Light Poplar at no additional cost.

Power for the car comes from a 4,799cc engine fitted with Bi-VANOS and VALVETRONIC variable valve technologies to produce 355hp. The advanced engine is capable of propelling the car from zero to 62mph in 6.5 seconds before going on to a top speed of 150mph. The 4.8-litre powerplant still records 22.6mpg on the combined cycle and emissions of 299g/km – both figures that better rival products from Porsche and Audi.

The introduction of a new variant to the X5 range comes as the sales figures reveal that the model is exceeding original expectations. Customer demand for the BMW X5 means the model is forward sold until the end of 2007. The 3.0-litre diesel engined variant is still the most popular X5 accounting for more than 90 per cent of orders.

The BMW X5 4.8i M Sport costs £53,440 OTR. M Sport will be offered on 3.0d and 3.0si models later in 2007 and further details will be announced nearer the time.