I just Ordered X5 3.0d in Chicago

[bobajoul]

I wrote an order in Minneapolis right before Memorial Day, traded in a convertible as "down payment". The salesman did some research, he thought that 1-2K above 3.0 petrol as likely price point- most likely will have to stay in that region because of pressure from MB. Hope it gets here before the X6!

[blueagle]

I own a 2002 E53 X5 3.0 diesel and have no regrets. Diesel consumption is good and engine very torque. Powerful and always being challenged by fellow Porsche Cayenne,VW Toureg, Benz mL series.

Just have to bear with the strong exhaust smell of diesel.

[Strat]

I originally dealt with Perillo BMW in Chicago starting in February 2007. After an awful sales experience, we took our business to Patrick BMW for the test drives of a variety of equipment levels on the X5. Angelo was the salesman. Seemed like a straight shooter. Got $2,500 off (best price at the time in the area). The only problem was once we left the dealer after placing the order he/they really dropped the ball. They ordered the car without heated seats. Who wants to spend nearly ~$65,000 in Chicago for a car without heated seats? Needless to say through poor responsiveness and lies on their part, we weren't aware of this until it was too late. For our troubles and the additional three month delay they offered us a sleeve of golf balls and a baseball cap. We took our business to Elmhurst BMW, where I was happy to pay $500 more and get the car two months sooner than I otherwise would have.

Essential options for everyone: Premium, Nav, Cold weather

We got the full tech package rather than just Nav. Comfort access is the greatest feature you never knew you needed. Rear climate is nice if you have kids (we do). Third row is useless and after having it on our last SUV, we were pleased to see it is an option (that we did NOT order). Sirius is nice if you are into music. iPod is essential if you have an iPod and are into music. The Sport package is nice but not needed. I'm glad we got it because I like the subtle appearance mods it brings and I use sport mode when in the car alone but my wife doesnt like the stiffer 'sport' ride.

[oredart]

How'd those balls work out for ya?

[Strat]

Haha. I told him politely that I don't play golf but I would be happy to keep my business with him if they bumped somebody in line for me and placed a new order that they would give me for invoice. He came back and agreed to an additional $200 off. Again, haha. On principle we went to Elmhurst, with a full refund from Patrick within a week.