definitely, if you can go 4.8 then do it, but don't go below 4.4. The feel is different.

How is the feel different? I currently have a 3.0. Any concerns that the 4.4 is out of warranty?

about 100 extra hp diferent :)
Gas milege is not that diferent.
Every X owner regardless of engine shoud have extended warranty or put away some money every month for those repairs that are gonna come :)

I think EPA is lower for 4.8?

EPA is lower on a 4.8...Go for the 4.8 if u can spare the cash...It would definitely give u something else to smile at.

Shure, I would love a 4.8, just way out of my budget.

It's like with any other purchase: if you get the 3.0 now, two months later you'll be KICKING yourself that you didn't get the 4.4i for $1K less! Just use the extra $1K to have an independent BMW shop check out the 4.4 before you pull the trigger, and replace any parts that are worn (brake pads, wipers, etc).

I can not think of one good reason to get a used 3.0 over a 4.4 in this current market........one exception being if you really want a manual trans.

The 4.8 gets 16/21 (same as the 3.0), the 4.4 gets 16/22. So gas mileage should not be an issue. Sure, if you can get the 4.8 grab one! Now is a good time to buy these things as prices have dropped so much. Get what you want and if you can't find it yet be patient as many lease returns are hitting the market and new ones become available weekly. Keep looking in autotrader.com a few times a week and they will show up!

2004 4.4
 

I have a 2004 4.4 and bought it new because it is completly ungraded from the older X5 4.4.
It has some 120 upgrades, same engine and trans (steptronic) as the 745 add blue tooth with premiun package and sports package and it has everything an 05 or 06 has.
Best vaue for a used car.

X5Strap