A small lift would definitely give better bottom access and would be more comfortable to detach the tranny, but I suspect the engine has to come out the top. I've been using race ramps and their tire cradles to get a stable extra 10 inches when working under the X.

You may get lucky and drop the engine with the subframe. Don't know if it's any easier.

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David.X5
2001 X5 4.4i Sport
SOLD! at 160k miles