VirtualMayhem

Hello,

I'm new to the forum this week and I have been reading up as much as I can on several topics here. I am in Phoenix and I finally decided to purchase a 2013 535/550i here in Phoenix and have been working with a couple local dealers here. I have a build for each one but thought I'd get some feedback from the board on the builds and general thoughts on the two cars as well as any advice on negotiating tactics.

535i Build (MSRP $70,295)
Dark Graphite Metallic
Black Dakota Leather
M Sport Package
Premium Package
Technology Package
Sport Automatic Transmission
Soft Close Automatic Doors
Rear View Camera
Multi Contour Seats
Heated Front Seats
Park Distance Control
B&O Sound System

550i Build (MSRP $75020)
Alpine White
Black Nappa Leather
M Sport Package
Cold Weather Package
Executive Package
Luxury Seating Package
Sport Automatic Transmission
Power Rear Sunshade

I thought the B&O soundsystem on the 535i was nice not sold on the cost addition at this point. I might be in the minority here but I like the Aluminum Hexagon trim but most of the well equipped cars available are coming in Anthracite. A couple options that I read a lot of thoughts on here were these two, I haven't seen many cars here in Phoenix with M Sport and these - are these worth it:
Dynamic Damper Control
Integral Active Steering

Any other options/packages I should consider?

I test drove both cars and to be honest I like them both a lot. The growl of the V8 and the extra bit on the highway was nice but the gas mileage hit is pretty big. I read posts here that said people were getting over 600 miles per tank in a 535 and half that in the 550. The cost difference is not huge though so that has me debating back in forth. The 535 as built has just about everything in it, maybe too much

I'm planning on leasing the car. I haven't talked to the dealer yet on specific numbers but they seem motivated to sell. I missed the incentives that expired on 1/2/13 unfortunately. Is $5-$6K off MSRP a realistic goal? I have great credit and am looking at probably 12K/year mileage. Any negotiating tips?

If I'm asking too many questions here at once I apologize, I'm excited to get an opportunity to own one of these and intend to keep active here as an owner!

luigi524td

On the 535 (RWD) you might consider replacing the multi-comfort seats with the luxury seating package (cooled seats might make you happy) and the convenience package instead of stand alone PDC and rear camera. I think the standard radio is pretty good; unless you're an audiophile spend the $4500 on something else. Also, if you travel to the mountains you should go for the cold weather package instead of just the heated seats.

The soft-close doors must be nice - mine take a bit of a slam to close securely.

Good luck with your decision!