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      04-09-2008, 07:55 PM   #1
Mark
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High-performance BMW X5 mule spy photos

BMW's high-performance X5 mule has hit the 'Ring again, this time
showing some interesting changes compared to earlier prototypes.
While prior prototypes always had a more aggressive front bumper, the
headlight design remained pure X5. On this newest prototype, the
headlights appear to have been switched out with X6 headlights. If
there are any changes to the X5's deeper front bumper, we can't
discern them through the camouflage.

This latest prototype also features a new rear treatment. Earlier
prototypes used the standard X5 rear valance, mocked-up to accommodate
its new M-style quad exhaust set-up. The X5 shot yesterday, however,
gets a new, larger rear bumper that wraps around to the middle of the
rear wheel well. The rear fascia on the new prototype looks like a
more-finished production applicatin compared to the initial test mules.

This hotter X5 prototype still remains something of an enigma. Three
scenarios have been suggested: Is it an X5 M, a new X5 5.0is, or is
it a mule for a V-10-powered X6. The application of a new production-
looking rear bumper lends credence to the argument for a hotter X5--
most likely the new 5.0is. The addition of the X6's headlights
muddies the waters a bit more. Will this sportier X5 adopt X6
headlights while lesser X5s keep their normal lights, or will all X5s
get X6 front lamps as a mid-cycle facelift?

While we can't say with certainty exactly where the X5 lineup will
head in the next two years, it's clear that this hotter X5-based
prototype is progressing toward a more finished product.
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