Mostly the numbers on the new X5 lease; about 4900 total out of pocket (all taxes fees and security deposit) 882/month with 15k per year.

Granted I am pushing him towards the X since I do love the car, but also because there really aren't many other nice SUV's out there at the same caliber with a decent lease deal. I've done tons of research, and all points here.

Also, the reason I'm taking it upon myself to do the research is because he is much more busy than I, and not as computer savvy as I. He would just lease a new Escalade since it would be simple for him to drop off one, pick up the next. I hate seeing him, or anyone for that matter, throw money away.

If he really loves the Escalade, then help him shop around and get a good deal on the new one, I could be wrong, but if he loves the Escalade, I suspect he will not be happy with the ride of an X5 with M-sport package.

But go for a day trip and let him drive your X5 to see if he falls in love with it. The last thing you want is to talk him into getting an X5 and spend the next few years listening him to talk about how he wished he still had the Escalade.

LOL very true. We have been shopping around different Cadillac dealers, and even talked to some leasing companies (mandvleasing.com). Doesn't seem to be the car cost, about $74k sticker (on average) and about $64k final cost after rebates and such. The problem seems to be the actual lease offered by GM at the moment, they don't seem to want to lease! The residuals on the 09 Escalades are very low ($20,xxx), and one would be better off purchasing, since they're offering 0% apr. His issue, he doesn't "really" want to own a car. If he buys out his current lease, he plans to try and sell it 2 years down the road.

We test drove various X5's, 4.8 (no sport), 35D (diesel, non sport), and a 4.8 with MSport. He really enjoyed the ride of the 4.8 with MSport, but got back in his Escalade and like the more cushy seats, but commented on the "floating" feel of the much less sporty suspension on the Escalade (I couldn't tell if it was a good or bad thing). For a while, he was real excited about the MSport, but I think he was turned off by the initial figures. I was able to negotiate the current deal, and now he is at a halt (a monkey wrench just in time for his trade in date, tomorrow).

My dad is somewhere near 55..and he LOVES my 09 X5 with M Sport (Loaded). He had many BMW's back in the day..but has been driving the Acura MDX for the past 6 years (4 MDX's). He is probably going to take my X5 when I get the X5M. It is an amazing car, and is good for all ages.

I also have a Yukon Denali as well (very similar to the Escalade, especially with the mods) and I would say, if you don't need the space..go for the X!!

http://i260.photobucket.com/albums/i...5/IMG_0230.jpg

http://i260.photobucket.com/albums/i...5/IMG_0229.jpg

http://i260.photobucket.com/albums/i...5/IMG_0233.jpg

http://i260.photobucket.com/albums/i...5/IMG_0236.jpg

WOW bmwman! I think your pictures will help him decide on the X5 M-sport! Thanks for posting!!!

Also, thank you for the comparison! The Escalade and Denali are similar animals.

No problem..
I didn't really compare the 2 much...and I could honestly say I would be stuck if I had to choose 1. I am pretty sure it would be the X, but its a hard choice. The Denali is the perfect truck for vacations or when the entire family is going together. It has lots of luxury and the thing is like a plane :) The electronics and stuff aren't exactly the best or most up to date.
On the other hand the X5 will fit 5 people, and if necessary you could fit 2 more in the back. The X and Denali drive different, but I would say the X drives better. It has more power, better handling, and well its just better. The inside electronics of the X are better then the Denali as well, and more is offered.
If you have any questions between the 2, feel free to ask.

:wow: i purchased my 4.8 and i'm not even close to his lease payments(almost $900).

I know! After making a few more calls, the numbers seem incredible. Now my father has the Cadillac guys competing with the X5 with MSport numbers. He will be making his decision tomorrow! I'll send an update one all is said and done.

I thought you got a great deal on yours ? Did you not also get the 2.9% ? I figure the payment wouldn't be more than $1100 with $0 down on a fairly loaded 4.8 with an invoice around $62K.