2007 X5 or Escalade
 

I've been lurking on this board for a while now. I need a new SUV or SAV. I am selling my beloved Denali. I like what I see so far in the new X5. I've narrowed my two choices down to the X5 or the Escalade. Then I have to decide between the 4.8 or the 3.0. I need to tow a couple of jetskis also. Escalade has the horsepower, size and cargo advantage and smooth ride. I love my wifes 5 series BMW. Can anyone chime in and give me some advice on both of the choices? I realize these are two different beast, apples and oranges. Any thoughts would be appreciated especially anyone who has found themselve in the same position or has owned both.

Thanks.

Have you driven a BMW before? To be more specific: have you driven a X5? Escalade can never beat the power, handling, cornering of X5. I have taken down several guys in Escalade on the highway who think they got a kickass SUV. Puts a smile on my face whenever I am driving the X5. Can't say the same for Escalade. With X5 you are in control of car, while in Escalade it will be other way around. ;)

I towed a dual trailer with 2 Kawasaki 1100STX's loaded behind an '01 X5 4.4i and it was fine. The only trouble I had was hauling the trailer up the ramp at lowish tide. That being said I used to have a '99 Tahoe LT and towed a similar setup and didn't experience the same problem.

I would think that you have to decide what's more important to you, the towing/cargo capacity, or handling/speed etc?

Yes, I have driven an X5. My local dealer gave me an 06 3.0i for the weekend. I enjoyed the ride but found it a liitle underpowered compared to my Denali. Better throttle response from my Denali though. I do agree the handling is superb.

Gresch, what do you mean ..you had trouble hauling the trailer up the ramp?

I think the escalade might have the x5 on power, comfort, and chrome.

try jerking the wheel going 65 in a denali/escalade. after you get out of the hospital, try it on an x5

:rofl: :bustingup Escalade will roll over making a turn at 60mph+.

:iagree:

X5 is like riding on rails compared to other larger SUVs.

They are really not comparable
 

I own an '07 Escalade and an '06 X5 4.8is and they are very different vehicles. I actually love them both, but for very different reasons (although with the 22" wheels, we look a little "pimped"). The Escalade is more comfortable, very roomy and you glide through your driving experience. It is a very enjoyable vehicle. If I want to feel in control of the driving experience, have fun, feel the responsiveness of the vehicle and feel the power (and kick a little motor ass along the way) I drive the X5. Other than both classified as SUV/SAV, they are very, very different. If this helps, great, if you need more description, let me know.

phibbard, thanks for the response. That is the kind of info I was looking for. This is a desecion I am trying to weigh. I do a lot of travelling and want a comfortable ride. However, I also want some spirited performance. For long trips say 5 hours, which one would you prefer? I do have a young daughter (15 months) so if we go away we have lots of stuff tagging along. Which ever I choose will have to grow with us for a couple of years.