I agree that opinions vary. I drove a 3.0 with the standard suspension and wheels and thought it handled well for a SAV and the ride was compliant. I thought the power was lacking, though. The next test drive was a 4.8 with sport suspension and 20" wheels. It turned me off the vehicle. The ride was too harsh and the tramlining was brutal (no exaggeration). I've owned 5 BMW's over the years. The only one that didn't tramline noticably was the 1999 540iA. Personally, I wouldn't own a vehicle that makes you keep correcting it every few seconds to drive straight down the road. It should go where you point it!

Now before everyone starts shouting at me; I loved the 3.0 except for the lack of power. I'll probably opt for the 4.8 without the Sport Suspension, or take the Sport Suspension with the Dynamic Drive (Active Suspension) if it will smooth the ride out when in the non sport mode. As for the tires, I'll get the 19's which will firm up the ride without creating as much of a tramlining problem as the 20's do.

I'm definitely waiting until the dealers have stock to road test, even if it takes a few months.