Time to replace the E53, what to get?

[Riggodeaux]

I have friends with a 2011 5 series [gas, manual tranny] and an 09? Diesel X5. I like that newer 5 series sedan a lot, and would consider one if in the sedan market, either diesel/auto or gas/stick [since no stick available in the diesel]. I've been in the Diesel E70 and like it, too, would be advantageous for fuel mileage [though that advantage isn't what it once was, with complicated emissions and higher price spread on diesel fuel] and particularly torque for towing, which you may not need. My better half drives a 2011 Benz ML diesel. She loves it; I don't care for the ride, personally.