Hey all. Appreciate the forum. Read a lot but don't post much.

My 2004 x5 4.4 was just totaled. I'm looking into another, maybe in the 2011-2013 range. She had been pretty reliable at 164K miles, but the valve seals began to fail and I started having the smoking issue. Other that than I loved my E53. I pulled my ski boat regularly and had no issues.

so now my delima... I am looking into either the 35d, 35i or 4.? (depending on the year purchaed). I do not tow the boat as much because it is docked, but still want the power when I need it so that is the reason I am looking at the 35d. Those that have one seem to be pretty happy. I'll probably take a test drive in one this weekend. Compared to the 35i it seems the D has much better power. Just now sure how much I will miss my 8 cylinder.

Also, I had the sports package with the offset wheels and was going through rear tires yearly. I will not do that again. I believe if I purchase one with the sports package I can swap the wheels for something more standard size so I can rotate them to gain better mileage. Thoughts?

Thanks all!
Kevin

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