550isport

I took out a new X5 with the V8 and sport package (w/19 inchers w/all seasons - not the 20 inchers w/summer tires). The car is driven by the GM so it is broken in. I really liked the feel of it. The cockpit was driver-oriented and even though the car is massive, it hides it very well. The level cornering with ARS is most welcome on an SUV. The technology package options are wild - it would take some time to trust the rearview camera with back up assist. I was surprised that the car wasn't a bit quicker with 350 ft.lbs. of torque. I never drove a 4.6 or 4.8 in the E53 X5, but I did drive a 4.4 sport and that felt more powerful than the new X5. I think this may be due to the engine mapping BMW uses. I heard that the OEM programming is designed to return good gas milage to impress the magazines etc... This could be done with a pedal that doesn't shoot a lot of gas into the motor until you really press on it. I feel that my 550 is this way. Some new software will hopefully improve this.

The wife wants another X5. But then they had a 335 convertible on the lot that she was eyeing as well. Boy would I be happier if she opted for that. It's unlikely since we ski a lot and are trying to get pregnant (w/two doors and compromised trunk space, a 3 series convert. isn't practical as a baby mobile). Its too bad. Women shouldn't have to drive boring cars just because of the kids. I think this is an american philosophy. What do they do in europe?

DRP

Torquey5

Yeah the new 4.8i is an awesome car, when equipped with nearly every option it can get rather pricey, but it's so worth it. The upgraded sound system and the comfort seats are to die for! Plus it handles so well on the 20s and you don't even feel a sacrafice with those huge wheels and tires. The new 3rd row option is also very nice, small but nice just in case you need it. Boy do I sound like a salesman today haha!

Dan

jcflys

I really like it too, but was pushing over 70K when the options were listed. I was happy that my wife was content with her 4runner so I could get my 550i.

Jed Peter

They get an e61 touring model!

Hopco

Yes - but in Europe one can get ann E61 with a true sport pack (M Suspension and ARS - I think) and that wonderful bi-turbo 3 liter diesel.

Here in the US of A we get shadow line trim, comfort seats and a sport steering wheel. The only thing we don't get are racing mirrors and dual magnito lighters. Oh - and our E61s come with X-drive. It is a wonderous system - but perhaps limits the suspension options.
However, there might be hope - perhaps the sport pack that allows such suspension bits on the X5 4.8s will be avaiable on the F10!

uglybear

How do you think it compares to Infiniti FX45? My wife drives FX45, it handles very well on 20" wheels and it is a fast car. It does not have as nice seats as BMW though. No, women do not have to drive boring minivans. I have no idea why everyone thinks they should get a 7 seat minivan as soon as they get their first baby

uglybear

I have a friend there and they have two sons and all of them ski. They own 3er and 5er. No SUVs.

LowOrbit

SUVs are generally a waste :thumbsdown: - is an X5 really that much roomier than a 535xi?

Plus they suck gas and handle worse.

I think most Americans buy an SUV only because wagons are still seen as uncool.

Centurion

Two of my favorite sports.
Life is great!

Definitely avoid the minivan. It immediately adds 10 years to your life the moment you drive it off the dealer lot.
The X5 is a nice choice.

EuroCarFan

I wouldn't consider the X5 a boring car. I love that thing. I don't even think SUVs are boring. There are some nice and sporty SUVs out there. My wife has an MDX and she loves it but would love the new X5 more. I like the X5 and the Range Rover.