I have been driving a X5 5.0 for the last 3 months. There is a very very small lag in going forward. But it doesn't bother me much. Trust me, when the car takes off, it is going to blow your mind. But when I reverse into my garage, the lag is more noticeable. It may be my steep driveway and the car is equipped with anti-roll. That is what my dealer tells me.

Petrol consumption is a concern. But the LCI model has improved a bit. My consumption is around 16.5L/100Kms. I am yet taken the car for a long drive.

At the end of the day, the handling of the vehicle plus the gadgets it has "sheer the driving pleasure". Make sense ?

Do you think you can post your spec for the X5 5.0 you are looking for including exterior and interior color ? Mine is sparkling bronze with oyster interior. You have to wash and clean at least once a week to keep it in sparkling condition.

Good luck to your purchase, I don't think you are on the wrong track in looking at this particular model of car - X5 5.0