Like all BMWs of late, the new X5 is "technically" better in most aspects than its predecessor.

It's just not as exciting. The 4.8i I drove handled well and was very fast and got decent gas mileage (for the track.....which was about 6 miles to the gallon). But everything was just a bit farther away. Plus, the X5 has grown too big for my tastes.

Performance is the key. Plus after owning 2 E53's, the time has come to sit low to the ground again. The E70 has never even been a thought for me. BMW tried to attract a new buying group with the E70 ,but they will drop some loyalty in doing so........Phil

What are the performance numbers of the E70 4.8 vs. the E53 4.8is??

it's slightly slower due to more weight and marginally less power (350 vs. 363hp and 350 vs. 369 tq and 6.4 vs. 5.9s to 60) , I also believe handling is much better on the 4.8is just b/c the suspension is setup more for high performance driving than the everyday.

My response at link below. I am not loyal to 4.8is, but to the driving experience and that's what I did not experience in E70 4.8i.
http://www.xoutpost.com/x5-e70-forum/...ns-wanted.html

Also check out our member Steved thread here when he sold his 4.8is. Steve has owned two 4.8is and and reviews cars. His review of new M3
Steve currently drives ML63 AMG (check his thread on why) and waiting for X6. ;)

I wouldn't say...
 

That I'm loyal to the E53 but would say I'm loyal to performance. I've been on the market for some time now and I'm completely undecided after test driving every SUV/SAV. The closest vehicle to satisfying my tastes next to the E53 was the Pepper Turbo but something about it just doesn't do it for me...so currently considering supercharging the X with the Dinan S3 package. Also considering more news on the E70 "IS" and X6 (///M).

So to answer your question directly...I guess I'm not the demographic target for the E70 as I have no interest in a third row (amongst other things).

I don't understand all this talk about "performance." Sure, it's a BMW. Sure, it handles and performs incredibly well for an SUV (one of the best). But it's still an SUV. When I want performance and handling, I drive my S4.

Agreed.
The cost diff was a big issue for me regarding getting a 4.8IS and the new 4.8 e70.

On the other side of the coin, if both performance and handling are available in a SUV then there is no reason not to go for it - best of both worlds. :thumbup:

You've got the analysis backwards. :)

1. The first question is if you want (or need) an SUV. If not, full stop and go to the M forum or 6speedonline. If yes,

2. Second question is whether you will be driving that SUV enough such that you want a high performance SUV (i.e., you drive it enough such that having a second car that's fast and handles well-- even if it's 911 twin turbo-- 'aint doin' it for you because you're stuck in your damn SUV most of the time).

3. If answer to second question is no, that is, having a second car that kicks butt cures your problem (taking into account budgets, etc), then again full stop and off to M forum/6speed you go.

4. But if answer to second question is yes, then voila, welcome to this thread. :thumbup: