Nice post.. I like your logic on a lot of it. I was a purchase and not lease, and I opted for some things strictly on emotional appeal (like the V8), but then a lot of what makes one person like one car and the other hate is is emotional.

Sound like a good ride though, and I think your post will help others who are on the fence about options and such to decide.

btw.. most of your logic makes sense, but I will take issue with the HUD.. my wife felt like you that it was a "Gadget" but after driving with it for a while and having it with the NAV it has been re-ranked into the must have category by her.

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BMW - X5 4.8i w/all US options packages, 19" Y wheels, White/Tobacco, Huper Optik 50% tint
Mercedes Benz - E320 CDI Park Assist, NAV, Folding Mirrors, Premium Sound, Voice Command, Sunroof, Auto Rear Shade, Bi-Xenon