Why would it be ridiculous to have both? At any given time, we have either 3 Benzes or 3 BMWs. Currently we have 2 MBZ SUVs (2008 ML63 AMG and a 2008 G55 AMG). The X3 is rated as safe as the X5, although it does (IMO) feel more "tin canny". An all new X3 is coming out very soon. 2009 X3 is the last year for the current model, so if that does not bother you...have both. The X3 is very reliable, and honestly much more problem and glitch free than the X5. Almost every consumer based report, places the X3 above the X5 in terms of reliability!