Potential replacement for X5?

[JCL]

I am currently driving a 2003 3.0, steptronic. I am very happy with it, likely going to keep it another year. I have been wondering about the new X5, and while I don't trust the spyshots yet, I do get a strong sense it will be bigger and heavier. Not what I need, in other words.

So, I have been reading about the new 530xiT. Not sure of the BMW designation, but I assume it will be a different number than the E60 due to the touring designation.

- Interior dimensions very similar to current X5
- Exterior dimensions similar, a little longer and quite a bit lower
- Luggage capacity larger than current X5
- X drive
- Weight is 1200 lbs less than current X5
- Towing rating is down slightly, but sufficient for what I tow.
- With the new 3.0, acceleration is better than current X5 4.4
- Mileage is better, due to less drag and new engine
- Available with a 6 spd manual (although I didn't want one on the X5, I can see one suiting this car very well).
- Downside: The SMG listed as the 3rd transmission choice in Europe is not available with X Drive. Bummer. No mention of SMG on the USA site, and the Canadian site has no details, even though the BMW magazine is discussing this model.
- Looks: I like the front end. I wasn't too sure about the rear of the E60, but the touring model solves that issue.

So, is it just me? Anyone else thinking that this might be a reasonable alternative to a new series of X5 that is likely to grow in size and weight in 2007 or so?

[motordavid]

JCL:
IF I was looking to toss the X5 for another suv-like car, I'd be looking hard at X3; assuming I wanted another BMW, AWD, etc.

Not the foo-foo level in X3 as X5, but lighter, quicker, handles sharper, etc. A new X5 w/3rd seat, another couple hundred lbs and another $3-4Gs on top of the '05 pricing is not my idea of what I need.

Your 530xiT isn't bad idea, either. Surprised you didn't get my opins: everyone has one, here! BR,md

[SANguru]

My wife replaced her X5 with a Audi B6 S4 Avant... awesome car... tons of torque, great handling wagon... plus with the CAI, Miltek exhaust and headers... it's getting close to 400hp.. Other cars you definitely want to consider is the Land Rover Sport. Both are in the E60's price range. I also did recently an extended test drive of the MB E55 touring...mmmm.....

Originally Posted by JCL

I am currently driving a 2003 3.0, steptronic. I am very happy with it, likely going to keep it another year. I have been wondering about the new X5, and while I don't trust the spyshots yet, I do get a strong sense it will be bigger and heavier. Not what I need, in other words.

So, I have been reading about the new 530xiT. Not sure of the BMW designation, but I assume it will be a different number than the E60 due to the touring designation.

- Interior dimensions very similar to current X5
- Exterior dimensions similar, a little longer and quite a bit lower
- Luggage capacity larger than current X5
- X drive
- Weight is 1200 lbs less than current X5
- Towing rating is down slightly, but sufficient for what I tow.
- With the new 3.0, acceleration is better than current X5 4.4
- Mileage is better, due to less drag and new engine
- Available with a 6 spd manual (although I didn't want one on the X5, I can see one suiting this car very well).
- Downside: The SMG listed as the 3rd transmission choice in Europe is not available with X Drive. Bummer. No mention of SMG on the USA site, and the Canadian site has no details, even though the BMW magazine is discussing this model.
- Looks: I like the front end. I wasn't too sure about the rear of the E60, but the touring model solves that issue.

So, is it just me? Anyone else thinking that this might be a reasonable alternative to a new series of X5 that is likely to grow in size and weight in 2007 or so?

[yellowdog]

I'm also considering the 530xiT. I have the X5 4.4 2001 and its nice. However, its getting older, and I really like the newer electronics in the 645. I got a 2005 645 this year and have really like it. The rumors of the next X5 are too scary to me to wait.

My only concern with the 530xiT is the engine. Compared to the 4.4l V8, it doesn't have the power that the X5 does. I drove one this weekend and found that it handles better than the X5. It doesn't have the same power or throaty roar. THe acceleration seems close on paper, but not from the drivers seat.

Am I right to be concerned? Is it a reasonable choice?

...yellowdog