Some basic e70 info
 

Well...we are considering trading in our 4.6is for a newer (CPO) X5. Past couple weeks...we had 2 separate issues with the car and a little worried about maintenance. (its our weekend/backup car)

Any particular years i should stay away from? or look for?
I'd love a diesel...but waiting on prices to drop a little. How are the 3.0s towing? I know the E53 3.0 will tow 5000lbs...just wondering if the newer 3.0s will fair well?

Is the 3rd row seat really useless? (for kids)

If we do get a new e70...it will become our daily driver. Of course any input/advice is greatly appreciated.

Thanks
Franklin

I have been very happy with my 2008 3.0si. My 9 year olds are happy with the 3rd row also. Can't comment on towing. I assume 2007 being the first year for E70, it may have some bugs to sort out.

dingy 3rd row.. but my 9 and 5 years old boys luv to be there...

3rd is not quiet as roomy as mentioned, high maintenance costs (if out of warranty), expensive tires (Dunlop) to replace if running 20's, Electronics are a little backwards or on in need of advancement.

my 08 4.8 runs like a scalded dog. the area normally considered for third row seating is barely large enough for a bale of hay. my dogs wouldn't be overly comfortable back there. the rear glass compromises that area IMO.

the E70 was built for the 4.8, again IMO. the chassis is more grounded with the additional weight of the 4.8. the 3.0 felt light and wimpy when i test drove it.

the transmission programming is designed to be flogged, again my opinion.

Toyo STX IIs, rock. i got about 30k out of the RFTs but these things are worlds apart and so much better for the driving experience. plus no third row seat means a spare tire and jack under the cargo floor.

45k in 28 months, i really like this truck.

My july 2007 build 4.8 has not had any major issues. I have 47.5k miles on so far. Will be getting rid of it soon though as I do not want to see out of warrant repair bills(lease). Transmission could and should be smoother, but I drive heavy footed anyways so it matters little to me. I love this car and my biggest problem is the temptation to buy the same exact truck again, which I normally avoid, for sake of change.

wow thanks for all the good info. I'll try to stop by my local dealer to test drive both the 3.0 and 4.8.

was browsing ebay just to see how things look and options...and some do have the rear entertainment dvd system...is this worthwhile? (need something to occupy my 3 yr old)

thanks
franklin