It's now 5 months and counting remaining on my 550i lease. I need to start looking and thinking about the next car. Here are my thoughts so far:
F10 550i: I really like a V8 and the new 4.4 TT V8 shouldn't disappoint. I like the F10 styling and interior but hate the 550i wheels and hope the M Sport pkg is available by the time I'm ready to trade. I also am hoping the handling is just as good.
X5 5.0: It will have the same 4.4 TT V8 but will weigh in at 5300+ lbs. I miss the utility I had with the X3 and would like to be able to cart my bike around and have a vehicle for Charlotte winters if continuing to be like this past one. Some are already available at local dealers but I don't know why I can't configure one at bmwusa.com.
M3 E90: I am impressed with the M3 V8 would love its handling. However I'll still have the Z4 for fun and will miss the room, higher end features, and quiet luxury of the 550i. I also am having a hard time picking a color combo I would want.

Other cars: The CTS-V and Infiniti M56 should be on the list to test drive as should the C63 and possibly other cars/sporty SUV's in that price range. Although, unless they handle at least as good as the 550i, I'd not want it.

Opinions, suggestions?

 

No opinions?

 

It won't be. According the BMW at the NY Auto Show during the closed event for CCA members, a few questions were asked about that. They said the M-Tech Kit and additional wheels for the F10's won't be avail for at least another year, if not longer. It's one of the main reasons member Pennetta didn't return to BMW this time around. I'm in the same position as you and he. I was considering a convertible M3 (never owned a convertible) for a 2 year lease to coincide with the introduction of the new M5 when the 2 years are up[, but I think I'm going to buy my M5 out (BMW FS offered a very nice discount on my residual) and just keep it until it comes time to move into the F10 M5.

 

Same boat as you Richard. Have not really look outside BMW as the M3 is calling my name! Would love the coupe but will likely go with the sedan for the rare occasion I need the back seats. F10 is not very appealing and the lack of M-Tech kit is pushing me elsewhere. The C63 is a sweet looking car as well but have not driven it. Good luck!

 

same boat here as well:

I have a test drive set-up in July for the F10

other options I am considering

X6 w/ performance kit: http://www.xbimmers....performance+kit

LCI X5 with M Sport pkg: http://www.xbimmers....ad.php?t=355421 (the fogs are questionable)

all TT V8 .50 models of course

 

Same timing and thoughts for me. Ive had the e60 for 6 years (04 545i and 08 550i leases) and thoroughly en"joy"ed the cars, the 550i more than the 545i - only because never had to take it in for software updates, bad runflats, and door seal squeak issues. Im turning in the 08 550i in late Jun or early July for a '11 X5 xDrive 35i M Sport. Already ordered and on the way. Have to say im looking forward to the change. Needed a little more ability for activity and winters in the mountains although, i realize the M Sport PKG with 20" rims/tires arent going to help with winter driving.

I considered Audi Q5 for about a minute. I might have gone with the new X3 if it was available. Definitely thought about the e90 M3 just not enough room for me. I really like the new F10, its design is growing on me. I think it will look great with the Mkit when its released. I may come back to the F10(w/xDrive) in its mid cycle LCI refresh after the X5 lease is up in 36 months, see how the X5 is for 3 years.

Good luck with your decision and order!

 

I took delivery of my X5 this week and like it very much so far. Engine seems a little noisy, not throaty but like an old 3.8 GM engine.

Should get my 550i in about three weeks. Agree that the 332 wheels are very ugly. Thinking about new 20" 321s or waiting for the M wheels.

 

The E90 M3 is absolutely amazing...there are some '08s for sale in the $41k-$50k range on autotrader.

 

Very nice! I think I read your post over @ xoutpost as well, congrats! So, you are liking the switch from the 550i to X35i? How is the X5 Sport with Adaptive Drive ride vs 550i Sport? Power? I test drove an x6 35i (n54) to get a feel and it seemed to be fine for my needs.

There seems to be a point, for me at least, that really grabs your attention with cars, a pic, see it on the street live, commercial, etc. Seeing the e60 on the road for the first time did it for me. I wasnt sold on the pics at first. I really like the lines of the f10, like the new front a lot, as well as rear, side seems a bit more cohesive although, i wouldnt disagree that it could look like a longer 3 from the side. This pick was the one that really grabbed me though:

 

^pics like that make it a hard decision for me, thank you for sharing