As usual, after posting/making threads, I usually find most of my info/answers immediately right after.

The 2wd/rwd thing is definitely a possibility, as it's a pretty common thing other newer xdrive car owners have done on other forums.

There are a few options with the transmission too it seems like, but the AWD system may seem like it could be a weak point once more power gets pushed through it. So I am debating if it is even worthwhile trying to retain the AWD system with a BMW xdrive trans at all.