2006 X5 any new options/changes (E53).

[somewhereinla]

Still haven't got around to getting an X5 I was thinking to get it at the end of August to accomodate a fly fishing trip I want to take in Colorado/Montana... it would be a great way to get acquainted with the "beast". except that now my girlfriend wants to take her vacation at the same time and go to Greece instead... Oh well...

Now that it's getting close to October which is usually when BMW release the 2006 model, I am wondering if I should wait a couple of month. Is there any new options. or changes to the 2006 E53? There are always at least small differences any one know what they are? I am looking at the 4.4.

[dan_fitz]

I just ordered an '06 and as far as the dealer could tell, there will be no changes until the total remodel for the '07 model year. My recommendation would be to try to find an '05 that perfectly matches what you are looking for rather than waiting for '06. My dealer was much more willing to work out a deal on an '05. The color combination that we were looking for was not available, otherwise we would not have ordered. We justified the higher price with a likely higher resale value due to newer model year.

[prism]

Originally Posted by dan_fitz

I just ordered an '06 and as far as the dealer could tell, there will be no changes until the total remodel for the '07 model year. My recommendation would be to try to find an '05 that perfectly matches what you are looking for rather than waiting for '06. My dealer was much more willing to work out a deal on an '05. The color combination that we were looking for was not available, otherwise we would not have ordered. We justified the higher price with a likely higher resale value due to newer model year.

Actually, if you get it with the CD changer, its possible that at last it can read MP3s which is a huge step forward!!!

[dflwshaft]

Good info on the MP3 add in '06.

I'll tell you, if you don't have to have bluetooth, I'd buy a used '04 or '05 with < 15K miles and save $10K-$20K. BMW's interior/exterior hold up incredibly well and in 6 months, you wouldn't know the difference. I'm sure you could find exactly the car you want.

Alternatively, BMW is offering a smokin' lease on X5's until Aug. 31. I saved $6000 over their standard lease... got to spec the car.... and am picking it up at factory for a Performance Center Delivery (free). I've been to the Performance Center before and it's fun. I want my wife to experience it to improve her driving skill and raise here BMW IQ. Would that qualify as a vacation for your girlfriend?

I ran the numbers and the current lease challanges the "buy and '01' value approach.