I am sure many of you have done this comparison. Unfortunately, my wife seems to be leaning towards the ML - she thinks it looks more sophisticated where as the X5 is more sporty/manly. I have concerns abuot ML reliability; however, a RWD ML is about $6k less than an X5. Here is what I come up with:

2011 X5 -
Advantages/Disadvantages
4 year maintenance included
Better reliability?
Better gas mileage
New model year with new engine and tranny. Won't be updated for several years
Rougher ride
Premium Price

2010/2011 ML
Last year before major overhaul with new engine and tranny for 2012
No maintenance included and higher overall maintenance costs due to MB required service intervals (A, B, C, etc. etc.).
Worse reliability?
Worse gas mileage (this may change with 2012 model year)
Softer/plusher ride
Less expensive initial cost

If my wife is set on an ML, I may make her wait another 9-12 months until the 2012's come out with refined bodies, interior and new engine and tranny. Apparently, the interior of the ML for 2012 is going to be on par with this years E-class.

Who else has done this comparison and why did you go with the BMW. My wife currently has a 2001 325Ci with 80,000 miles and continues to run strong, but at about 70,000 miles we started having to spend about $600 every other month on it because of sensors going out, door handle breaking, brakes needing replaced, cooling pump leaking, reservoir leaking, thermostat failing, etc. etc. I guess this is typical for any car with 70,000+ miles, just that it is more to fix with a BMW.