BMW has introduced its M Sport variant to its X5 range for the first time.

It is powered by a 355bhp 4.8 litre engine which pushes the car from 0-62mph in 6.5 seconds before going on to a top speed of 150mph. BMW says the engine can do 22.6mpg on the combined cycle and has carbon dioxide emissions of 299g/km.

Standard equipment includes 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 can choose from six colours: alpine white, black sapphire, carbon black, monaco blue, space grey and titanium silver. Nevada leather upholstery is standard inside 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. The BMW X5 4.8i M Sport costs £53,440 OTR and is on sale now. The M Sport will be offered on 3.0d and 3.0si models later in 2007.