Just hoping to get an honest opinion from those with experience. Do you guys think using a 4.8i with 214s and the OEM 20s is completely impractical for a family (wife and one small child)? I know I need to switch to dedicated winter tires during the snow months...but other than that is it crazy to use this as my daily driver (would be our only car since we live in the city).

The ride of the 4.8i with the 20s isn't much harsher than with the 19s in my opinion (after brief evalauations anyway). Is anyone else out there using this setup (with the OEMS) as their daily driver and have small kids? Any other issues on the family/practicality/safety front other than having to switch the tires/rims in the winter?

I can't stand the look of the 211s personally (too regal and unsporty for my tastes)...which is why the 4.8i sport with the 19s really wasn't an option (and I definitely want the V8). It seems like BMW at least partially intends this scenario as their brochure features this setup (4.8i with 214s) with a third row seat and it is after all an SUV(yes I know SAV).

I suppose I could always downgrade (to 211s or something else) later if I find this to be a problem...but this would be an expensive solution. I haven't really seen anybody doing that so it is probably an unlikely scenario...but maybe it is just that no one is getting the 20s with intention of using it as the "family car".

Honest opinions apprecaited,
Loki