PRICE WHEN NEW: $66,845
NUMBER BUILT: 10,467
COLOR: IMOLA RED
OWNER: BMW OF NORTH AMERICA
OWNED SINCE: 2003
LOCATION: GREER, SC
The Dawn of the Sporty SAV, the BMW X5 4.6is, a vehicle that not only represented a significant evolution for BMW but also played a pivotal role in establishing an entirely new automotive segment: the Sports Activity Vehicle, or SAV. When the first-generation BMW X5 E53 entered production in 1999, it introduced the world to a vehicle that dared to blend the commanding presence and versatility of an SUV with the dynamic driving characteristics BMW was renowned for.
Within the E53 X5's lifecycle, which encompassed a range of distinct variants, the 4.6is emerged as the sporty flagship, embodying the pinnacle of performance within the early lineup. Produced between 2001 and 2003, the 4.6is offered a heightened level of athleticism and driver engagement compared to its stablemates and pioneered performance in a new vehicle class.
Under the hood resided a potent M62 V8 engine, a powerhouse that delivered a substantial 340 horsepower (360 PS) and a robust 354 lb-ft (478 Nm) of torque. This impressive output translated into surprisingly brisk acceleration for a vehicle weighing in at approximately 5000 pounds. The 4.6is could sprint from 0 to 60 mph (96 km/h) in around 6.2 seconds – a figure that was undeniably impressive for a vehicle of its size and purpose in the early 2000s, showcasing a level of performance rarely seen in traditional SUVs of the era. To handle the increased performance, the 4.6is was equipped with larger diameter brake discs and more robust calipers, providing enhanced stopping power.