I disagree with some of the previous writers.

I bought a 2005 X5 4.4i loaded with every option in the book. Then I traded it after 4 months for my current 2005 545i, and I made the right choice.

My decision was based on one thing: driving feel. I hated the way the SUV drove, even though it was fast. It had best in class acceleration and handling, but even that cannot compare to the acceleration and handling of a 545 or 550, let alone the M5.

If you don't the need the utlity of an SUV for hauling large objects or getting through snow, dump it and go into a 545 or 550 or M5. It's just a much more responsive feel, and that's what mattered to me.

 

I will also disagree that the X5 drives like an E60 or even an E39 for that matter. I had an E53 4.4L X5 and while it was nice for an SAV (sorry it's not an SUV and it's not just marketing) it's no 5er. Even the build quality and materials was sub par when compared to a 5 series. But don't get me wrong... the X5 is very nice. It's just not 5 series nice. It has its advantages such as better ground clearance for snow and more cargo room. If you're comparing to a RWD 5er then there is also the bonus of AWD on the X5 (if that's needed).

 

I agree as well, going w/ the 550/545 will give you a drive feel the X5 will never give. Only, thing that I liked about the X5 was the solid doors that felt very crisp when open and closing.

 

That's my thinking. The ground clearance is nice for snow, not that we've had much the past few years. As for the cargo aspect. The trunk on the 5er is bigger than the X5, albeit that the X5 can fit taller objects.
The 545 does seem to have nicer "fit n' finish" than the X5 as well. I guess part of it can be attributed to it being 7 years old now.
I'm going to the dealer tonight, so I guess we'll see.

 

Good luck. Get a vehicle history report if it's used, and insist on knowing what the repair codes indicate. However, if it's CPO you'll be safe for a LONG time!
Let us know what you decide.

 

Thanks for all the advice, pros/cons, etc. The car is from a one-year lease by the sales manager of the dealer. Certified and all. I think financially it will be better in the long run for me to get the 545.
The original sticker on the car is 66 and change, built 11/04. Looks to be loaded except for HUD and has 14k on the clock. They are asking 55k, what would be a fair price to pay?
Thanks again all, I'll definitely let you know the out come.

 

My best advice would be to consult the BMWUSA CPO section of the website for comparable values. You can then have an educated base line at that point to begin your bargaining.
Good luck on your quest!

 

Get the 545, NO TRUCK gives you the handling and drive feel of this sedan.

 

How about selling your X5 and leasing two cars. X5 & 550i perhaps?
that way you may end up with change in your pocket.
Heard a lot of great deals are around w/ the X5 because of the new X5 coming this summer.

 

i suppose none of you have driven the 4.8is then, its nothing like "normal" x5s ? i reckon handling wise its better than most e60... it is almost an ///m car after all, right down to the engine temperature ligths on the rev counter