Just joined today and have found this forum to be helpful in my decision to purchase a 07 X3. A few questions though:

1. Crash tests scores for the X3. I was unable to find any government based (U.S. or other) crash scores. Safety is on par with performance in my decision.

2. Should I wait for the rumored 08 diesel? When is the X3 scheduled for an overhaul?

3. Do you need the navigation to integrate a bluetooth phone with the vehicle?

4. Stationed in Germany as a U.S. Soldier so I have not been able to drive the X3's primary competitor; the RDX. It seems designed for creature comforts and gee-wiz batman gear then driving dynamics. Plus I can't stand turbo lag in a self described performance oriented vehicle. Don't convince me that it sucks or that BMW is much better, just tell me how it drove if you test drove it before the X3. Some unbiased thoughts would be helpful.

5. What do the 18" wheels do to the driving dynamics as opposed to the standard 17's. I don't want the sports package because when I test drove it it was too solid (great for Autobahn where I tested it but I can imagine not fun for stateside driving). Don't convince me that I need the sports package I just want to know what 17's to 18's does (other then make the vehicle look a lot better).

6. Is servotronic steering worth the $250?

7. Felt a small jolt from 1st gear to second gear when I came out of a dead stop. Some reviews mentioned that as well. Any comments? Do you find this to be a problem or not?

8. I can get the premium package, heated front seats, 18" wheels, metallic paint, rear side airbags, bluetooth (don't think I need the nav for it to work) and $325 delivery cost for $38,xxx. No taxes. U.S. Spec. 3.0si. Delivery to stateside is free for me.

9. One last thing - does the audio turn down automatically when you accept or make calls using bluetooth?

Thanks so much for your help in advance. The biggest question I want answered is regarding the safety. I know the safety features, but want to know the crash scores from a legitimate agency.

Warrior 1.