Before I start, a quick note to forum moderators: I have posted the same thread on the E70 forum but I suspect both forums get a different readership and I NEED to have some opinions soon as I am in a hurry. Please do not delete as 'double posting'. Actually, I am thinking of buying a 2005 X5, but I saw the E70 forum before I saw this one


I once again ask for your help, good people of xoutpost. I have decided to change my mini cooper s (which I only bought two and a half months ago) as my wife and I are having our first child and need something more accommodating for a young family.

So I need a car that will be

a. safe for a pregnant mother and her baby (when, God willing it comes)

b. offer plenty of space

c. Be reasonable off roading.


Now, I am not going to be challenging the car too much off roading, after all, I only will be taking the car off road 5-10 times a year maximum. The car will be therefore used 70% on the road (this is why I want a slightly more 'sensible' car) and 30% (if that) off roading. By off roading I mean getting to and back from farms and the marsh (will not be taking the car in the marsh itself, just close to it).

I have heard and read mixed reports for the X3, people seem to believe that X5 is much better car than an X3, plus I need something that offers 'real' 4x4 potential, so X5 sounds the better choice. I am talking about an approved used, of course.

Anyone has any advice and/or knowledge of these two cars? My budget is up to £20k in total.

Any ideas?

Thanks in anticipation