Hard to find a 35i base model?
 

I was thinking about getting an X5 for my wife. We would like to stay under 50k and it seems like the only model within our range is the base model. We are fine without the options and don't really need to spend on options even though it would be nice to have them.

I know that sometimes auto companies sell a base model just to advertise a low starting price but they really don't stock any. From my exp from dealers in Los Angeles you can't seem to find base model luxury cars, they always have some options. Does BMW actually sell a decent amount of base models?

Buy a used, CPOd 2010 with the bells and whistles- it will have a 100k warranty and you ll be driving a nice car with features you will enjoy in the long run... (ie nav, audio, convenience, Multi Contour seats, adaptive drive)

In terms of 'finding one'- just order it if you are doing new... 4 weeks or so and it will be here

We originally thought about getting another CPO but with all the issues we are having with our 05, I thought about getting a new one because at least we will get to enjoy the car for more than 3 years. I"m also considering a CPO 09-10 4.8i or diesel.

This is what I was thinking...my 2010 diesel with 32k sold for $47k, but with a lemon title. IMO the new buyer overpaid...just a datapoint. MSRP was ~71k.

Yes, BMW sell a reasonable number of base models.

I agree with the plan to order one configured exactly as you like it. If dealers in the OP's area only have loaded up models, that is because they have found that there are sufficient purchasers without the patience to wait for one, who are thus willing to buy off the lot. Might as well sell those purchasers all the options, especially since those options have a higher profit margin than the base vehicle.

I factory-ordered my last four BMWs, and the one before that was traded with another dealer to get the colour and options I wanted, while allowing me to purchase from my local (servicing) dealer.

you'll find them in maybe another year or two when they come off lease.

You can probably tell because there's likely a lot of 3.0 base models available now.

I would just order one as you see fit, with the colour and configuration you want. Honestly, BMW's been working hard to promote that; should take no more than 4-6 weeks depending on dealer allocation.

I ordered a base 2012 back in April, 2011, with the following options: space saver spare, rear sunshades, navigation system, heated front seats, floormats, and convenience package for 49.988.88 plus applicable tax, title, license, and documentary fee. It only took about 5-6 weeks to come in.

FWIW.. Mine is nearly loaded up and I love it and wouldn't have it any other way.

However, all the other X5s at the office are pretty much base models and their owners are still happy with them.