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2004 BMW (E53) X5 4.8is

Exterior
Interior
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Mileage
94,303
Transmission
AUTOMATIC
Drive
RHD
Colour
GREY
Engine Size
4799 cc
Location
London, UK
VIN
WBAFA92080LE56237
Buyer's Premium
6% of the winning bid or offer inc. VAT. Minimum of £500 and a maximum of £5,000.

SB's Take

  • This BMW X5 is a powerful modern classic SUV with the added bonus of being ULEZ compliant
  • Range-topping model of the E53 X5 line-up with distinctive styling and enhanced performance
  • Under the bonnet sits a naturally aspirated 4.8-litre V8, producing 360bhp and 500Nm of torque, delivered to all four wheels via a six-speed automatic transmission
  • Offered for sale with No Reserve, this car comes from the same family ownership of the past 20 years. With the current custodian for the last 4 years, it has been meticulously maintained throughout their care
SB is thrilled to be offering this 2004 BMW (E53) X5 4.8is, a performance luxury SUV that combines BMW’s motorsport-inspired engineering with everyday usability. As the flagship of the E53 X5 range, the 4.8is as we have here boasts significantly enhanced performance, sharper handling, and styling upgrades that set it apart from its lesser siblings. The “4.8is” trim level introduced a more aggressive presence, with 20-inch alloy wheels, wider wheel arches, quad exhaust outlets, shadowline trim, and a lowered sport suspension setup. Inside, it was fitted with extended Nappa leather upholstery, sport seats, titanium interior accents, a sport steering wheel, and a panoramic sunroof. Classy meets performance... Speaking of performance, under the bonnet lies BMW’s N62B48 4.8-litre V8, producing 360bhp and 500Nm of torque. Paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission and BMW’s xDrive all-wheel-drive system, the 4.8is V8 does the 0–60mph sprint in under 6 seconds - impressive for a luxury SUV of its era. This example finished in Sterling Grey presents very well for its age, retaining its original specification and showing signs of careful stewardship. With fewer and fewer well-maintained E53 X5 4.8is models remaining on UK roads - many having been modified or exported - this is a rare opportunity to acquire one of BMW’s boldest and most distinctive early performance SUVs. As always, the seller - well known to us here at SB - is available to answer all questions via the Comments section below. They would also like to highlight that the private registration “N1 HMX” is not included in the sale and will revert to its original registration, “HW54 FPA”. Buyers should bid with complete confidence.

Key Equipment

  • Panoramic Glass Roof
  • Leather Walknappa, Exclusive/Schwarz
  • Sports Seats - electrically adjustable with memory function, lumbar support, and heating
  • Rear Heated Seats
  • Drink Holder
  • Interior Surface Graphit-Metallic
  • Navigation System Professional
  • TV Function
  • Bluetooth Preparation
  • CD Changer
  • HiFi Speaker System
  • Headlight Cleaning System
  • Park Distance Control (PDC)
  • Rain Sensor
  • Xenon Adaptive Headlights
  • Automatic Air-Con
  • 2-Axle Self-Levelling Suspension
  • Sports Multifunction Steering Wheel retrimmed in Alcantara
  • BMW Style 168 Alloy Wheels
  • Aluminium Running Board
  • Roof Railing
  • Individual Sunshade Glazing
  • The original amplifier has been upgraded with improved ICs, while all factory speakers have been replaced with high-quality Focal units. A 10-inch shallow-depth bass driver has also been installed in the boot in place of the original unit, ensuring enhanced sound while retaining a factory-correct appearance

Condition

  • As with all listings on Shooting Brake, we encourage viewing all accompanying photos to assess the condition of the vehicle in detail
  • The exterior of this X5 4.8is presents well overall, though the original 20-inch Style 168 alloy wheels show some marks and would benefit from refurbishment
  • Inside, the cabin is clean and well-kept, there is some visible wear to the driver’s seat, as expected, but no rips or damage
  • The panoramic sunroof is reported to function correctly, free from any unwanted noises during operation
  • The seller notes that the original navigation/entertainment screen suffers from a considerable number of dead pixels, leaving it only just about usable
  • The dashboard, switchgear, and major controls remain intact and operational. No warning lights are present, and the car is reported to drive without any known faults

Service History

  • This X5 underwent its most recent MOT in June 2025, resulting in a pass with zero advisories
  • The current seller notes that the car has been serviced annually - despite covering only around 3,000 miles per year - exceeding BMW’s recommended service intervals
  • The most recent routine maintenance was carried out a few weeks ago by an independent garage, which included an oil service, air filter and brake fluid change
  • Prior to this at 88,842 miles, it received an oil service and pollen filter change
  • Other notable work carried out within the last three years includes a new fuel pump, replacement brake pads and discs all round, new front suspension airbags, rear tyres, and a full alignment
  • Please review the Mechanical & Docs section in the Gallery for further service history, including a stamped service booklet

Summary

A rare and powerful flagship SUV from BMW’s early performance era, the X5 4.8is combines strong V8 performance with luxury and load-lugging capabilities. This example presents very well throughout and is a standout choice for those seeking a modern-classic SUV with genuine character and presence. Buyers should bid with complete confidence.

Finally, all cars on Shooting Brake are run through a 3rd party online vehicle checker, MotorSpecs (note, this does not include a mileage history check). This particular vehicle throws up no insurance claims for damage or theft and has no outstanding finance owing. Nonetheless, we strongly encourage all bidders to undertake their own due diligence prior to placing any bid. It is entirely reasonable for any classic or enthusiast vehicle to have undergone cosmetic repairs that could otherwise go undetected from the provided photos or by any in-person inspection. Unless the seller explicitly states otherwise, assume that any vehicle or item listed may have undergone bodywork or paintwork at some point. Additionally, photographs may not accurately represent the vehicle’s true overall condition. It is the bidder’s responsibility to verify the condition, and any past repairs - including bodywork or paintwork - before placing a bid or making a purchase. If you have any questions or queries, please use the Comments section to firstly ask the Seller directly before placing any bids. Shooting Brake tries to portray the item listed as accurately as possible through detailed questions asked to the seller but would like to remind users that all vehicles are sold as seen and, as per all goods purchased at auction, there is a No Return policy. Please see our Terms and Conditions for more details.
Exterior Photos
Interior Photos
Mechanical & Docs
Watch
Mileage
94,303
Transmission
AUTOMATIC
Drive
RHD
Colour
GREY
Engine Size
4799 cc
Location
London, UK
VIN
WBAFA92080LE56237
Sold
£5,500
Buyer's Premium
6% of the winning bid or offer inc. VAT. Minimum of £500 and a maximum of £5,000.
Sold
£5,500