Hi~

Budget: $45,000 (Out the door).
Age: 32
Usage: During weekdays, wife's car. Mine during the weekends. Planning to keep the car for at least 5 or more years...
Decision factor: price (around $45,000), reliabiity, repair cost, recent technology (comfort access, driver setting memroy key, dual climate control, rear seat air), cool design and good accerlation.

Considering models:
***THE BMW X3 (with prem. package with comfort seat, zenon headlight, 18" wheel, rear airbag, active steering, privacy glass, about $44500 + Tax).

Questions...
1. Can I expect the "comfort access" pretty soon as an option for the X3?
2. When will there be a redesign? Can I expect it to look more like the 2007 X5 ( I love the new X5 but can't afford $55,000). The current X3 looks kinda werid to me...but I love the inside and the full care service.


***Lexus RX350 (with prem. plus package and navigation, about $44000 + tax but my local dealer has a good deal...almost $44,000 out the door).

1. I like the way RX350 looks but hate the interior...if I go with the RX350...is it too outdated? (expecting model change early 2008).


Both SUVs (SAV?) are great vehicles but one handles well and one offers comfort...soooo opposite. but both seem tech-wise outdated not having comfort access, X3 not having dual climate and Lexus's image of old folk's car.

Is there any other luxury brand SUVs around $45,000 (well equipped) that has a cool look and recent techology?

(Maybe the MDX but too big...RDX, I hate the turbo...XC90...I don't like Volvo...Infinity...my wife hates...ML350...hate the boxy interior...Kinda like the Q7 but with decent options, easily goes over $50,000.)