damn...thought i had my mind made up too. i really don't like the old steering wheel, so if i get an X5 i would definitely have to replace it. for the same price i can get an x3 that's 2 years older and has the better wheel standard :-\

i can't, for the life of me, find the perfect x5! the right steering wheel, panoramic moonroof, navigation system...premium sound would b better but if it doesn't have it it's not a big deal...for the right price/miles. i'm always sooo close to finding one, but then it's always missing just ONE thing that i can't live without. :(

[quote=J
mtx5...i see you have a 2002 BMW X5 3.0i and 2008 BMW X5 3.0si...question: can u tell a difference in the i vs si engine? what do u like more and less about each car? (compare to each other)[/quote]

brief review:

the si engine has a bit more power. you can definately tell a difference as my 02 3.0i is much sportier sounding and feeling, and a bit rougher, while the 08 3.0si is ALOT quieter and smoother.

i like the 02 better because i like the sportier, louder, rougher feel; and the look too. if i could take anything from the E70 and put it in the E53 it would be EDC (electronic dampening control) ... that system is amazing.

Most of what you listed can be added on later like when you have more money to blow.

I would just suggest you be very cautious about buying an airbag that didn't come straight from a BMW parts counter. That is the one thing really in your car that can save your life. IMHO, I'd gladly pay full price for a brand new one.