My last BMW was exceptional as well. I leased it new (1999 540iA) with sport package. I liked it so much, I would look for an excuse to drive it. I drove it until 2006 and then turned it in. I had a need to haul a 2 horse gooseneck trailer (show jumping) so I leased a 2004 Dodge 2500 with a cummins diesel. Great for towing, but not a "driver's" car. Also, no heat in the winter. the horse, truck and trailer are all gone, replaced by a wife and by now a 2 year old child. My wife drives a Honda Accord (she thought that was too expensive, compared to a Civic - I talked her into it) and another sedan doesn't really help us with utility. the plan was to get a mid size SUV that could pull a trailer for the Sea Doo, Sailboat and utility trailer (infrequent use).

I really like the X5, but it doesn't grab me the way my old 5 series did. I guess when I look at spending upwards of $75,000 I want that old feeling back. Times have changed though (with a family now) so I have to adjust to the compromise in a SUV. Of course, the BMW wins in this category, hands down.

Does anyone fit small children in the 3rd row, or should I skip this option as useless?

grover