Funny, I just finished reading this article:
http://www.edmunds.com/insideline/do...hotopanel..1.*
I'd probably take a 328i, then A4 2.0t, then C300, but it's just my preference.

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T

Well, that's exactly my point. The future value of any vehicle (X5, C300, etc.) can't be accurately predicted. So unless you are confident that you will keep the car vehicle for 5+ years - why not lease?

Let's say that the X5 in question was leased 4 years ago and BMW Financial Servies used 45% residual that was common back then. Now you want a new car and the current value is only 38%. Wow, you saved ~ $3,500 plus you had no trade-in issues. OTOH, what if the current value for the X5 was now 50%. Wow, you can buy the car from BMW and sell/trade it for a nice profit of ~ $2,500.

Leasing is not for everyone, however if you only drive around 15K miles/year and you are uncertain of your future automotive needs (or like to get shinny new cars like the C300) - leasing is a good idea.

Dunno what depreciation is like with a new C-class but it certainly won't be that of an SUV. Might be worth it, might not be. With an ML or X5 the choice might be more obvious.

I was under the impression that you drive a car, you don't just look at it.

I think you will regret getting the MB as soon as the newness of the body style wears off. Then you will be stuck driving just another boring C class.

Have you seen photos of the facelifted 3 series sedan?

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Profeshenal spellar

I would stick with the X5 for a few more years, SUV's resale are hurting yet the real difference in MPG is small (14mpg city X5 vs 17mpg city MB).

I also think that the economy and auto sales are hurting and we will see some real year end bargains.

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Loving my BMW

I think your X5 looks 10000x times better than the C class. And i agree with FSETH that once that newness wears out, it will be just another boring c class.

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I have not seen the facelifted pics. linky?

Here is the link.

E90 and M3 sedan facelift spyshots ( 1 2 3 ... Last Page)

I think the biggest changes are better looking tail lights and chrome lip on the hood should be gone.

I think the Benz looks pretty OK, but it won't drive like the Bimmer. Looks alone, the new A4 looks really good and is also all wheel drive. I would still prefer the 3 series over either though.

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Profeshenal spellar