NEver had them on my 4.8is, didn't miss em. Have them on my 4.8, and I think they look good (one of the simple minded people, I guess). Kids use them; I step over them.

I believe one of the intended uses for this vehicle is to serve as an adjunct in one's recreational avocations. "Sports activity vehicle" in the brochure. To that end, the running boards are of great use in loading kayaks, sailboards, SUPs, bikes, etc. on/off of a roof rack. Hardly "bling" in this context. They can be highly functional for certain owners.

You beat me to it.

I love them and they look great. Like someone already said I also think the X5 looks rather ordinary without them. I don't think there is anything bling about them.

I have them and would def re order them on a new x. IMO the x looks naked without them. I will admit they are mostly an aesthetic, but they are a relatively cheap option and not worth dropping. Necessity if you use the roof rack as mentioned above!

I dont have them on my X and would really like them, I do get my pants dirty on the black plastic though, and sounds like its worse with running boards. But oh well they look awesome and would be great in regards with roof rack. Good to see everyones opinions

got em and would get em again...looks good and somewhat functional getting to the roof.

Thanks for all the feedback

Perhaps BMW rocket-scientists should make retractable ones ..then you would have a choice depending on how you feel that day (and if its dry or wet) - and you can code it into your comfort access settings ;)

Think through the scenarios e.g. solo trip to morning peaceful coffee (off), wife picking up kids from school (on), loading stuff on roof (on), knocking over abusive cyclist as he/she approaches from rear (off then quickly on as they pass), police arrive (off) :)

We had them on our X5 and didn't like getting caught on them every time we stepped out of the car. When the time came to order our X6, we didn't get them and they are much less annoying!

1) They would not serve me as a "step."
2) They would rub against my leg and leave dirt on my pants.
3) IMHO, they are ugly. Poka dots on muted silver???
4) MB also has same style...same thoughts on them as well.

Summary: 70% better looks, 20% regret, 10% function. Reminds me of 20" wheels.