I’ve made the mistake of test driving a 4.8i and now I’m stuck with a MAJOR dilemma..

[Tae]

Hey gang,

This is my first post, on X5World, and I’ve just put a deposit for the purchase of an ’08 E70 X5. My wife and I just had our first baby, in July, and as seems to be the trend…. New Baby = New ‘Big’ Vehicle. We’re currently shuttling around in an 06 Audi A4, which we have discovered is now just too small for our daily needs.

We shopped around for all SUV\SAV’s in the same class and pretty much narrowed our choices down to the Q7 and X5. Long story short, my wife and I fell in love with BMW’s offering and decided to place an order for an ’08 3.0si that is well equipped.

All was good, up until the point I asked the dealer to test drive the 4.8i model recently. The 4.8i’s engine sound and acceleration just blew me away. As it's not too late in the process, now, I’m debating whether to replace my original 3.0si order for a ‘less’ equipped 4.8i X5.

As I have to keep a budget in mind, if going with the 4.8i, the one major option\package that I would be giving up is the Sports Package.

If you were in my shoes, what would you go with? A well equipped 3.0si or 4.8i sans Sports Package?

Just for reference, here’s a breakdown of the model\options packages that I currently have in consideration:

4.8i

Exterior Options:
Space Gray Metallic

Interior Options:
Black w/Nevada Leather with Dark Bamboo Wood Trim

Packages/Options:
Premium Package
Cold Weather Package
Rear Climate Package
Technology Package
Heated Rear Seats
Third Row Seating
Running Boards
iPod/USB Adapter


3.0si

Exterior Options:
Space Gray Metallic

Interior Options:
Black w/Nevada Leather with Dark Bamboo Wood Trim

Packages/Options:
Sport Package
Premium Package
Cold Weather Package
Rear Climate Package
Technology Package
HUD
Comfort Access
Heated Rear Seats
Third Row Seating
Running Boards
iPod/USB Adapter


I am very interested in receiving some feedback from the seasoned x5 enthusiasts.

Thanks in advance!

Cheers,
Tae