x5, What year? Reliable?

[bpowa]

Hello all,

Im new to the forum. I always liked BMW's styling, however I always felt the reliability is questionable.

When I was younger and working in the automotive field. I saw my fair share of cars needing repairs.

I cant say BMW are reliable as the next model or not. It seem then there are major issues people take them to a dealership or indy specialist in euro.

For repairs I am very capable, however I dont want to put the time wrenching either. Im ok with maintenance but am not going to take the time diagnosing lets say a transmission.

Currently I am looking at purchasing a rx300 or a x5 for my wife.

Initially I looked at the i6 due to mpg. however after looking at a couple and reading a bit. I am leading towards a 2004+ 4.4 v8.

I felt the rx300 had alot more power than the x5 3.0. But do like the x5 more.

Would I be making the right decision, going with a 2004+ 4.4 or a 2002+ 3.0?

I have a feeling if I got a v8 ill keep for myself and 3.0 ill have my wife drive.