Does the 10+ really that much better than the 09?
 

So we sold our car and now instead of just lurking here all the time I am shopping !

I want a 2011 35D, cost is not what we want so I have settled on a 2010 as it has the better idrive and the top view camera.

So my question is should I really rule out the 2009 as there are lots of the 09's with low mileage and great options that I am going to pass over because it is missing a few updates?

I have done the research and I know how they differ on paper but not in the real world, and it is still a BMW at the end of the day.

Newer idrive, thats about it. IIRC. 2011 is where the facelift started, thats what I would get (new headlights 2011.5, new tail lights, front and rear bumper and topview camera). You also get the combox in 2011 that allows for bluetooth streaming, internet access etc.

Major handling difference: if you get the Sport Package with an '09 or older you get Adaptive Drive standard. On the '10's+, the Sport Package only has AD as a stand alone option (meaning you might not be getting it-- depending on vehicle). AD, for most people, is really a big difference in how the vehicle handles.

tough choice AD vs. new idrive. I say that because I would punch my '08's slow-@$$ idrive in the gut if I could. One I use all the time, the other only during spirited driving I could tell.

^^ You can always do a retrofit to the newer iDrive...

No, blue dragon, YOU can do a retrofit to the newer iDrive. Most mortals can't. :)

Thanks guys, this is so hard to decide.

I think if I just take my time and wait for the right 2011 to pop up I can grab it, my wife is borrowing her moms 09 X3 M sport so all is not bad ;)