I have 236,000 miles on an '02 with the 3.0 and automatic transmission and average 2500 miles per year of towing a 1300 pound PWC and trailer in summer heat in Texas. I've never had a mechanical engine or transmission issue, and can usually average nineteen to twenty mpg while towing. I have had electrical problems caused by dirt that infiltrated the harness connectors because the factory never put any sealing grease in them.

My only "totally unexpected" repairs have been an alternator at 126,000 miles, and a front driveshaft and transfer case at 136,000 miles. The front driveshaft with its short spline condition is my only true reliability concern at this point. The engine has been bulletproof and seems to enjoy the Texas heat, delivering the best highway mileage on 100+ degree days!

My biggest source of frustration has been with the silly window regulators - come on BMW....and keys that transmit intermittently. I know the V-8 guys like their extra power, but it seems to bring extra problems with it, so my next one will still be a six, but probably with the turbo.

In the end, I still believe I'm driving the safest, best handling, and best value SUV available. (And my wife won't give up her 325i unless it's for a new 328 coupe!)

2002 X5 3.0 236,000 miles
2004 325i 105,000 miles