Questions from Hong Kong
 

Hello all. I am a newbie in Hong Kong. Just got my X5 on Saturday. Space grey, 3.0si. I debated for a long time over 4.8 vs 3.0 but decided on the 3.0 because in Hong Kong, all options are the same. The cars here come fully loaded (glass roof, leather, sports steering wheel etc.) and the only difference between a 4.8 and 3.0 is the engine size and price - USD32,000. Yes, the 3.0 costs USD90,000 here. Second reason is that it's for my wife and baby's use....but I still want it to look good so here's my question:

I would like to put the 124 Y-spoke 20" wheels on. Was quoted USD1,400 for after market ones (but look exactly like OEM - was told that they are made in Italy) and USD3,100 for OEM wheels. Tires are USD1,666 for Yokohama ADVAN-ST 275 front and 315 rear.

First question: is there a big difference in terms of safety between OEM and aftermarket? (After discussing with my wife, I think I'll go for OEM but just wanted to check with you all)

Second question: If I get the 20" wheels (mine's 18") without changing the suspension e.g. sports package, will it screw up my existing suspension system? (I know the ride will be harsher).

Last question: does anyone know if we can buy the 4.8 exhaust tips? Mine comes with the round polish tips but I prefer the 4.8's oval tips.

Thank you in advance for any advice you may care to share.

PS - By the way, I also order the aero kit. Cost me USD1,400 without paint or installation. Seems like everything is expensive here in Hong Kong.

You've come to the right place for answers!
:xoutpost:

And let me be the first to say :worthless: :)
Show us your new ride!!! :thumbup:

Welcome and congrats with the new order.

Here's a thread regarding the discussion on the chrome tips.

http://www.xoutpost.com/x5-e70-forum/...e70-3-0si.html

get the OEM wheels, dont ruin your new E70 by putting a set of aftermarket wheels on. It is understandable here in the US but for you folks in HongKong it doesnt make sense because your E70 3.0 is $90,000 (fifty something here) fully loaded and you say you save about $3100-$1400=$1700 on a set. That doesnt sound right.

Hello Eryck,
I am living in HK too and just placed an X5 today in the Kowloon shop. If you are looking for the Y-spoke wheels, I could introduce you a place from around 5000HKD. By the way, what colour combo did you get? I ordered a space grey + black interior but I would like to change to Saddle brown with Alum trm. What do you think? Also where did you get the Aerokit?

Sunny

JoSan Eryk,
My 2005 3.0D cost the equivalent of USD 91,000 two and a half years ago here in Oz. You are not alone in paying a lot more than the Yanks. Can't comment on OEM versus aftermarket re:wheels, but can tell you that my original 19" Bridgestone Turanza ER30 tyres lasted 58,000km. I have replaced them with Yokohama Advan ST and at 12,000km, the rears are looking like they will be lucky to get to 20,000km. Not good enough really, and certainly wouldn't get them again even though they seem to handle well and are quite quiet.
Good luck.
Colin.

black interior is nice and is much easier to clean. Have you seen camel, it is very nice too.

http://www.x3world.com/x5-e70-forum/...ighlight=camel

Josun Colin!

Yes, I used to live Downunder and know that the cars there are expensive. One positive thing is that resale values there are very good. As you may know, second hand cars in Hong Kong are worth next to nothing!

Hi Sunny,

I got the space grey with beige interior. Will post pictures as soon as my wife download them for me - I'm not sure how to do it...

The aerokit can be ordered from the dealer for 11k but if you have them instal it for you within 6 months, you'll have to pay 85% tax. I got mine and am having a garage outside to paint and instal for me...

Oh, by the way....

Colin - thanks for the tip on the tires. I'll see if there are other options...

Sunny - You should consider the saddle brown. I think it will really look good with the space grey (although a bit like Porsche...). While black is good for maintenance, I think it's a bit of a waste with the space grey since it doesn't enhance the color...space grey does look good with the lighter interiors and yes, would appreciate it if you can introduce me to the source for the Y spoke wheels. Thanks a lot to everyone.

Btw make sure you get black floor mats.. I have beige ones and they get very dirty.. unfortunately in Australia there is a backorder on mats and the dealers are hopeless on accessories...!!!