If you don't have a drop dead date to make your decision, you might consider this: The X3 3.0si will be replaced with an X3 3.5si with the new 3.0 liter 300hp bi-turbo currently found in the 335ci and 335i.

http://www.xoutpost.com/183922-post15.html

There is no announced date, but the common speculation is mid-2007. IMHO, a N54 biturbo X3 would be the poor man's 4.8is at $30K less (figure $50K fully loaded), with better handling, better gas economy, and possibly better acceleration. Best of all, it will probably come with a 6-MT.

This is the vehicle I'm waiting for. I'm looking to downsize from my X5, but getting another manual transmission vehicle. Among my alternative choices are a BMW 328xi sports wagen or Audi S4 Avant (check me out, Josh!).