Need X5 Advice

JetBlackZ

Member
I am in the market for a used X5 as a winter car. My question is and hopefully there are some X5 owners who also own a Z4 is what engine the inline 6(3.0) or V8 ( 4.4 )to go with, is one preferred over the other? I drive about 60 miles to work daily so good gas mileage would be preferred but if there is a significant advantage of the V8 I would not make the lower gas mileage a deal breaker. Also, what options should I be looking for? Are there certain models/years to avoid? Feedback on your own experiences and if you would recommend this for a potential buyer. In short any and all feedback on the X5 would be appreciated.
Thanks
 
I have an X5 as well, but I am in the UK so there are different considerations. The majority of X5 here is the 3.0 Diesel model due to the fact that the economy is better + better resale value. As the fuel in the US is so cheap, it is not really a consideration there.

Anyway, always go for the facelift model as that has the 6 speed auto box and a number of other useful extra's. The V8s have a lovely grunt which the straight 6 does not have. All in all, it depends on what you want ...
 
I just got an X5 last month. I was looking at the 4.4 but ended up getting the 3.0. It's plenty fast enough for me, very solid and gets very good gas mileage for a vehicle this size. The fuel consumption and price are the reasons i didn't get the 4.4.

options i wouldn't live without: Winter package, BMW Assist w/ Bluetooth. We got an the last '07 on the lot and got a GREAT lease deal. Same vehicle as an '08 was over $200 more per month.
 
Both engines are strong however there is a huge difference in performance and gas obviously is worst on the V8. as mentioned, try and go for the facelift, if not avoid any older then 2001. Not sure what spec is sought after in US but over here its sport package, heated seats and nav mainly.
 
Thanks for all the input.
After much comparing I bought an ML320. Originally I was going to get a CR-V but I like my creature comforts and if I am spending money on something I only partially like why not go all out. The X5 would still be my first choice but the size and weight of it was a turn off. Not to mention the difficulty I had finding a used one with low miles at a decent price. Best of all I finally got to get rid of my Subaru wagon.
 
enfield said:
That's a shame. I was going to suggest that you look at in Infiniti FX35 or 45....

Actually my brother who owns a G35 recommended the FX35. To be honest and I know it is wrong to assume but Infinity at least the G35 seems to be very cheap inside. His car is only a few years old and there are so many things breaking on the car. I do love the way it looks but I have my doubts on the materials they use on their vehicles.
 
^^^ I understand your concern. I have had G35 loaners and I agree that their interior is not the best. I myself have an 2004 Infiniti FX45 and the interior fit and finish is first rate. No squeaks and nothing is breaking down. The plastics used and of MUCH bettre quality than my Z4M.

Anyway - MB is a great company and their qulity had taken a hit but now they make great products once more. Good choice on the ML320 :thumbsup:
 
Ah I see - maybe a UK thing then.

Here we get ML320CDi - my mate has one it's nice, but also we get a 420CDi too- a V8 diesel with 306bhp, 376lb ft and 0-60 in 6.5 - not bad for a 2 tonne monster :D
 
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