4.8is vs 4.4i

[JD_BMW]

Hey everybody, I'm just deciding and would like some help, I'm also new to X5world but have discovered much needed info on this site. Anyways, I'm deciding whether to lease (2005-6) X5 4.4i or the 4.8is. Up here in Toronto, Canada basically 4 to 5 of 12 months are heavy snow, with the rest of the year unpredictable with heavy rain and wet weather. So is it smarter to get the 4.4i which can be driven all-year round confidently without changes, or the 4.8is which would force getting snow rims/tires? (Because I've also heard that the 4.8is has average handling in anything that isn't dry pavement) Anyone who owns a 4.8is and goes through similar conditions would be of much help. Thanks for all (positive) suggestions.

[cmyX6go]

I'm a 4.4 owner. If you're a mod guy, you'll wind up getting bigger rims and tires for the 4.4 and change them over in the winter anyway. I love my 4.4 but regret not getting the 4.8. I also made my decision for the 4.4 due to the tire size. If the money is not an issue, I'd go for it.

BTW - the seasonal change between stock 18s and summer 19s is worth the effort. I can't get this off my face. My cheeks hurt..

:xoutpost:

[Bavarian]

The 4.8is is rock-hard much like BMW's M-cars. Plus it costs a lot more, but you don't get a lot more over the 4.4i.

I'd recommend you invest in a well-optioned 4.4i with dedicated winter tires.

Welcome to the site!

[f355b]

go for the 4.8is trust me any 4.8 owner will tell you its miles better than any 4.4 and it really doesnt cost MUCH more than a 4.4 for what you get
$65,000 vs $73,000

[Dr_Smith]

out in Alberta our winters are terrible also (why is it I live here?) but I chose the 4.6is over a 4.4. I'm now looking at a 4.8is as a second X - yes you have to change tires/rims but I can to that in under 40min. Your X will look pretty much like the others driving around in the winter, but when you throw the monster rims on again for the summer, you'll be smilin' from ear to ear

[bscarlett]

Originally Posted by f355b

go for the 4.8is trust me any 4.8 owner will tell you its miles better than any 4.4 and it really doesnt cost MUCH more than a 4.4 for what you get
$65,000 vs $73,000

The Canadian prices are way off from US, the base 4.4 is $72,200 and the base 4.8 is 98,200...that a full $26,000 price gap. As a fellow Toronto driver, I have the 4.4 and love it. There are a few snow storms that I wish I had winter tires but go with the stock 18's all year round. I don't have the sport package because I found the ride too stiff. Just my 2 cents worth.

[f355b]

the problem always comes down to money, for $8000 its a no brainer but $26,000 unless i had tons of money i wouldnt do it. just not worth it thats way to big a difference

[powers1]

Originally Posted by JD_BMW

Hey everybody, I'm just deciding and would like some help, I'm also new to X5world but have discovered much needed info on this site. Anyways, I'm deciding whether to lease (2005-6) X5 4.4i or the 4.8is. Up here in Toronto, Canada basically 4 to 5 of 12 months are heavy snow, with the rest of the year unpredictable with heavy rain and wet weather. So is it smarter to get the 4.4i which can be driven all-year round confidently without changes, or the 4.8is which would force getting snow rims/tires? (Because I've also heard that the 4.8is has average handling in anything that isn't dry pavement) Anyone who owns a 4.8is and goes through similar conditions would be of much help. Thanks for all (positive) suggestions.

4.8,no contest!
Do a simple exercise.Spec out a 4.4 with 20" wheels/tyres set up,4.8 bodykit fitted and painted,4.8 bigger discs,4.8 suspension,4.87 instrument cluster,4.8 exhaust silencers with the oval tips.Then check out the difference in price and all you will need to figure out is if the 4.8 engine is worth this extra money!Oh,YES!

[Dr_Smith]

this is why I will be buying my 4.8 from the US, and imporing it to Canada. I've calculated an approximate $20K in savings as there is no imprt duty charged, on provincial/federal tax and a $200 import fee which includes inspection. Also, I spoke with BMWNA and they have indicated there are no warranty issues. Might want to consider this are you're so close to the border...

[bscarlett]

The Globe and Mail recently ran an article about this. It is cheaper to purchase a Honda that is made in Alliston, Ontario from a dealer in Buffalo then it is to buy from a dealer in Ontario. Love live our strong Canadian dollar!!!