It's very tempting. My X3 is thirsty around town, not very fast, parts are expensive, and lacks the creature comforts and conveniences of newer cars. To illustrate: the F25 xDrive20d has a 4 cylinder diesel that is better in every way than my old M54 6-cylinder 2,5 litre.

But every time I head into the mountains, it's hard to see giving it up. Yes, gradients make it painfully obvious that 184hp doesn't cut it (I'm often extracting every last rpm) but it is so stable, secure, and enjoyable on rural roads and switchbacks. When weather turns foul, the good tires plus typical BMW stability "feel" have me plowing on with confidence. The Bi-xenon headlamps, hard-working GM transmission, and frankly amazing suspension are also plus points. Plus, it fits a mountain bike (barely) and all the kit for a weekend trip.

The small mods I've made also make it hard to give up. European-coded headlights, rear foglights, the aspheric outside mirror, a recently new Business Radio that reads mp3s, upgraded speakers, and snazzy interior design are just some of the things I'd lose if I had to give my X3 up.

So it looks like the X3 is here to stay for at least another year. I've worn out my snow tires and my parents don't have the budget for another set, so I may have to take other cars to the slopes this winter.

I will say this: I'm tempted to get a small pickup. If VW sold their Amarok in the US, I would probably buy one. VW engineering plus just 7,7 l/100km combined (30 US mpg) fuel consumption figures work well for me.