I went from an E46 to the X5M and could not be happier. I was putting a 2 year old in the back seat of the M3. The X5M is better all around. Easier to put kids in, more truck, better in the snow and will kill the M3 with power. It handles like a car half its weigh. If there are any issues about cost of anything, do go with it. It is expensive to buy, fill with gas, tires, insurance etc...