X5 4.4 to a 335xi sedan?

[alistair]

So, my 2002 4.4 X5 went into BMW yesterday as the steering was creaking again. The last two times the steering rack had failed, this time it's on of the CV joints. The other is "on its way out" according to my (very friendly) service advisor.

My last service cost me $2000, and it's seemingly getting more expensive to own.

I'm toying with the idea of cutting it loose, and ordering a new 335xi sedan to replace it. I live in downtown Seattle, so most of my driving is around town - with frequent ski trips during the winter.

My question is this - will I regret "downgrading" to a 3er? I love the power, comfort and fun of the 335, but it doesn't have the road presence of the X5. The new 4.8 X5 is too expensive, and I'm not convinced the bugs are ironed out yet.

Any comments / advice much appreciated,

-Alistair

[Wagner]

Aren't really comparable. Not nearly the same cargo volume and IMO the 3 series is very small (of course I'm coming from the X5 and a 545). The only real beni (aside from BT and other electronic gizmos) would be the TT motor. So if you must race to the ski slopes....that would be nice. IMO, I wouldn't do it. If anything I would go for the 535xi when it becomes available.

[Meiac09]

Originally Posted by WagnerX5

If anything I would go for the 535xi when it becomes available.

They're out now

i vote for E92 335xi when they come out
i'd definetely do the ED trip though

[Wagner]

Please drive a 5 before buying the 3, you will see HUGE size differences.

[NINCHS]

why not buy a newer CPO'd e53?

[trueX5er]

X3 maybe?
I like the new 5ers. The 535xi has plenty of power, and has a bigger presence on the road.

[DINANM3]

Just buy a newer E53 CPOed. You can get a really nice one with low miles for what you are gonna pay for the 335XI. You can probably get a 2005 4.4 loaded for what you will spend on the 335

[NINCHS]

lol I said the same thing 2 posts up!

[Trendari]

Or you can buy mine...see the classifieds for the Estoril Blue X5 2004!

Besides, a trip down here to Arizona will be good for you...get you out of the rain my friend...and mine is CPO!

~Ryan

[AzNMpower32]

Try a 5 touring, X3 (if you must have an SAV), or 5 sedan. The rear end of the 5 touring is much easier to swallow than that of the sedan, and X3's are fairly reliable, although I'm beginning to doubt the transmission programming on the 6-speed auto for the '07s.