Tech package is must. You realize the worth of HUD after you use it. Very nice. As others have said premium and sport pack are favorite options.

That's not the case here (Switzerland). Xenons are optional on the 3.0si and 3.0d. Worse, leather seats are optional on all models :bawling:

Yes...I should have noted the exceptions, but since he's a US buyer, my response pertains to his question. :)

And yes...that sure does suck that leather is optional on all models...Leatherette is more durable, but it sure does stick to your clothes and back on a hot humid day.

Chris

Does the remote auto close the tailgate? The bmw international website says, for comfort access, "Your vehicle key also functions as a remote control for opening and closing the tailgate". Is this the case with the X5?

Of course. My post was more of a complaint than a warning.

Leatherette? Sounds like plastic to me. Whatever is standard here is advertised as "tissu Twill", which seems closer to cloth than plastic. I wonder if they are the same thing as what you get in the U.S.

FWIW, all X5s I've ever seen had leather seats ;)

If money is not an issue, load them up. Better to get 'em all now.

Otherwise, Sport Package is a must. Everything else is base on personal preference, convenience or even geographic location.

Good luck.