I tried both. 3.0 was OK, but just OK. You see, if I am going to splurge (no better word) that much money on a car, I want to get it "all", including plenty of power. If you have $65K to spend on a loaded X5 3.0, I am pretty sure you have $72K for 4.8 !

And, btw, dont forget that you also get parking sensors with the tech package.. For this car, rear view camera (even a crappy one) + parking sensors are a must !!!

A BMW is a driver's car, so to get the full experience why get the 3.0? You really can't fully enjoy this car without the full power of the 4.8 along with sport package and a few other upgrades. The gas mileage difference is only slightly different between the two, but the driving experience is not even close.

^ I asked my dealer if they sold a lot of 3.0s... he said 90% of X5s sold there were 3.0s... wow. I'm thinking a lot of people believe the 4.8 is not worth the difference in price. Or a lot are really worried about the gas mileage during these times. I worked out the math and a 4.8 would cost me $500 more in gas a year over the 3.0si... but only $100 more a year over my current ride which takes regular 87.

I got quoted an out-the-door price for the 4.8i of $7400 more (only about $1800 off MSRP).

A lot of people take the 3.0 because it's all that they have to choose from. Locally it's a 3 month wait for a 4.8i, vs. immediate on the 3.0, plus they are more willing to deal on a 3.0 from what I have seen. I drove them both, and I have to say something was either wrong with the 3.0's I drove or someting is wrong with the 4.8 you drove as I see a huge difference. Plus the sound of that V8 firing up is VERRY NIIICEE!http://img.timeinc.net/time/daily/20...ebanon0109.jpg

hey np2004 :xoutpost: