Stripper X5 or Nicely equipped X3?

[stgreen]

I'm upgrading from a 10 year old Passat (1.8 Turbo) sedan and looking for something with more room. I do have three kids (6, 3 and 3 (twins)) but I've got a mini van for the day in day out stuff right now.

This would be my car for commuting, bikes in the back (triathlon), etc...

I would take either the oldest or the two twins, but I don't even thing a 2011 X5 could fit two dedicated car seats and a booster in the center. Of course, taking them down to the BMW dealer is in the future.

I am pretty sure the new X3 will definitely NOT be able fit three across the back seat.

But here is my question: I test drove an X5 and loved it. Wasn't planning on test driving it actually - was more interested in a pre-owned 535xi wagon. I test drove that and didn't quite fall in love like i thought i would.

Dealer said he would have more price flexibility with a 2011 x5 then the not at the dealer yet X3.

Yes, no ones really driven the X3. But an absolute stripper X5 - leatherette, no nav, etc...with more room OR a nicely equipped X3 (lets say the 260 horsepower version)...

Any thoughts?

thanks in advance.

[UncleJ]

Get the stripper X5 over the new (and untested by consumers!) X3. Before you do, go down to the local Buick store and test drive the Enclave. Great reviews, lots of room and super well equipped. The GMC Acadia is another one to look at on the same platform. If you are upgrading because of needing more room one of these will give you the extra room you will appreciate while hauling lots of "stuff" around. The X5 is barely larger than the X3 and the 3rd row back seat is useful only for really small kids IMHO.:thumbup:

[AzNMpower32]

I would say get the X3. I really don't like my dad's nearly-stripped-down X5 xDrive35d. I wish it had Adaptive Drive (or sport suspension) and overall better handling. The base sound system is so bad, I'd rather not listen to anything at all. The base seats are awful and the standard steering wheel is the size of a roundabout.

But if you prefer a large, softer riding SUV, then the X5 is the better vehicle. You should probably test drive both if you can wait it out.

[Evlengr]

Get the stripper X5 over the new (and untested by consumers!) X3. Before you do, go down to the local Buick store and test drive the Enclave. Great reviews, lots of room and super well equipped. The GMC Acadia is another one to look at on the same platform. If you are upgrading because of needing more room one of these will give you the extra room you will appreciate while hauling lots of "stuff" around. The X5 is barely larger than the X3 and the 3rd row back seat is useful only for really small kids IMHO.:thumbup:

ACkkk a Buick. Shame on you Uncle J. That thing is like a lumbering whale and ugly as sin. If you must get something in an SUV class and not a BMW get a lexus or Infinti

[stgreen]

I actually drove an Enclave a few years ago and it did indeed drive like a huge whale.

I am in no rush so i will drive the new x3 when it comes out.

I just dont think i'd be too happy in a total stripper model for years and years. i have heard that the stock stereo is pretty darn weak, so you make a good point there.

and day in day out, i think it would be mostly me in the car and not my kids.

pretty excited to see what the new x3 has to offer as far as ride quality...

[Evlengr]

I actually drove an Enclave a few years ago and it did indeed drive like a huge whale.

I am in no rush so i will drive the new x3 when it comes out.

I just dont think i'd be too happy in a total stripper model for years and years. i have heard that the stock stereo is pretty darn weak, so you make a good point there.

and day in day out, i think it would be mostly me in the car and not my kids.

pretty excited to see what the new x3 has to offer as far as ride quality...

Dont sweat the stock stereo. I can help you upgrade with no cutting for about $800 in parts and ten times better than their best.

[UncleJ]

What can I say, I happen to like the General's new trucks and have found the vastly improved (over a few years ago) Enclave and Acadia great buys. I guess I don't have to have a roundel on the hood to be happy. Since after rereading the OP's post he does say that he has a minivan for hauling stuff. I missed that and thought he was looking for a useful hauler. Sorry about that and my inflicting a "domestic" suggestion on everyone. Actually the X5D is not a bad choice for just occasional family duty, the X3 would also be good if it could be trusted for the first year or so of new construction here. Anyway whatever choice he makes will be the right one for him and his family.:thumbup:

[stgreen]

Thanks for all your replies. Very cool.

Yeah the mini van is the rig when the 5 person family is 'heading to the fall festival' for the day.

The snappier rig is for me so i can transport stuff and have some fun while i drive too. many short commutes around town, and a few longer trips to triathlons, etc...

I just think the X5 is too much cash for me to lay out. i know there are some great incentives before jan 1 hits but i would like to test drive the x3 as well.

also, i do like my tech gadgets and would like leather, nav, good stereo although one member has offered some advice about ways to upgrade without tearing apart what BMW offers.

Ive test drived the VW T-reg (2011) and wanted to love it, but wasnt super impressed for 46,000 sticker with no leather, weak stereo and less than stellar dealership (service that is) experience.

I dont have tons of local dealers so that is a factor. i like the concept of the acura MDX but dealer is too far to make it practical.

and their really is nothing like the feeling of a bmw... i will test drive the acadia but i think a bmw is in my future...

other opinions? id love to hear them !

[UncleJ]

If its just for you then take a look at the XC60 and the EX35. They are equal or better to the X3 on the pad and through the cones. The EX's big brother the FX50 runs head to head with the Cayenne GTS too if you are looking for performance at a reasonable price.:p

[Evlengr]

Thanks for all your replies. Very cool.

Yeah the mini van is the rig when the 5 person family is 'heading to the fall festival' for the day.

The snappier rig is for me so i can transport stuff and have some fun while i drive too. many short commutes around town, and a few longer trips to triathlons, etc...

I just think the X5 is too much cash for me to lay out. i know there are some great incentives before jan 1 hits but i would like to test drive the x3 as well.

also, i do like my tech gadgets and would like leather, nav, good stereo although one member has offered some advice about ways to upgrade without tearing apart what BMW offers.

Ive test drived the VW T-reg (2011) and wanted to love it, but wasnt super impressed for 46,000 sticker with no leather, weak stereo and less than stellar dealership (service that is) experience.

I dont have tons of local dealers so that is a factor. i like the concept of the acura MDX but dealer is too far to make it practical.

and their really is nothing like the feeling of a bmw... i will test drive the acadia but i think a bmw is in my future...

other opinions? id love to hear them !

What about a Cooper Countryman or Infiniti

[0428]

Since we are going buckwild on brand recommendations, I say for close to 1/2 price, go for the Impreza WRX, it will spank most of the ones listed above.

[UncleJ]

Or even the Mitsui Evo X SE which will too....:p

[Evlengr]

Ohhh one of the dealers courting me to buy the new X3 has one in stock to drive....wooohooo. I know what I am doing this week.

[BruceOmega]

..... They are equal or better to the X3 on the pad and through the cones .....

I thought the OP was asking about the new X3, and did not think there were any performance numbers avilable yet for comparison.



...... The EX's big brother the FX50 runs head to head with the Cayenne GTS too if you are looking for performance at a reasonable price.:p

What do the FX-50 and Cayenne GTS have to do with the X3?


Thanks
Bruce

[vrrooom]

Just a few notes on the thread discussion:

Reminder that the Enclave and Acadia have the dreaded GM 6 speed that is infamous in the prior generation X3, similar set of problems.
The stripper X5 will always have a better resale than the X3.
I considered all of the brands mentioned and settled on a 535IX with ED, actually cost less than the new X3 I was consdering (consider the ED discount and BMWCCA rebate on the 535:D)

[stgreen]

[QUOTE=vrrooom;5705550]Just a few notes on the thread discussion:
[LIST]
Reminder that the Enclave and Acadia have the dreaded GM 6 speed that is infamous in the prior generation X3, similar set of problems.
The stripper X5 will always have a better resale than the X3.
I considered all of the brands mentioned and settled on a 535IX with ED, actually cost less than the new X3 I was consdering (consider the ED discount and BMWCCA rebate on the 535:D)


The Enclave and Acadia are really not in the running at all. Maybe a test drive of the Acadia but it just doesnt excite me whatsoever.

Resale doesnt really concern me as i have kept and enjoyed my passat for 10 years and although i cant predict how long i will keep my next car, it should be in the 5-10 year range.

I'm actually not sure what ED means to be honest. and also, if i go the 5 series route, it would be for a wagon and that means pre-owned as they dont sell the 2011 535xi wagon here in the states anymore. 2009 and 2010 yes, but not many of those off lease yet.

Local dealer just emailed to say they will have a new x3 2011 on monday. so a test drive this week for sure.

I drove the x5 and loved it, but for me to get into it, it would mean no leather, no nav, heated seats and really...not much more. i would get the size i want, but none of the toys and thats just not fun.

[AnonCA]

Check with your dealer on locating 2010 factory execs X5s at the BMW FS auctions. Also ask if there are any 2011 X5s in their service loaner fleet. Both of these options will work well if your dealer doesn't mind working a little harder. I've done deals on both and saved clients loads of money over a "brand new" model.

[UncleJ]

Bruce, absolutely nothing, it was just a final thought to the preceeding sentence. It "was" a new X3, but past performance is always a useful guide until the new figures are out, and they should be soon. As far as the "dreaded GM 6 Speed in the Enclave etc. True when they first came out several years ago there was an isolated problem, however the General seemed to be able to fix it within a Model Year and the last couple of years have been just fine. BTW, the '07 X5 with a ZF 6 speed a/t also had problems that first year too. I wonder how everyone will do now that they are going to 8 speeds. Maybe the CVT is the way to go after all.:rofl:

[Greg@Pacific BMW]

Get the X5 I have a two year old....and I have a car seat (tight fir) and even when you add a booster or another car seat it can still get really tight... forget the X3, plus it's waaaaaay too expensive to lease. BMW has no good lease program on that. If they don't fix it soon this new X3 will be like a pretty paperweight. Get a stripped X5 with roofrails, runningboards and BMW Assist

[UncleJ]

+1! And be sure it is CPO'd unless you are just going to keep it until the OEM warranty runs out.:D

[dakarm]

I had a similar choice. new x5 sports or x3 with every option i wanted. i went with the x3 35i with every option i wanted. i don't need the extra cargo space so it made more sense to me.

[HT417]

I'm with AnonCA on this. Why not consider a used X5? You'll save the depreciation, get more bang for your buck, and still have some warranty left.

[davezaristo]

i got a couple of frds who own 07 and 08 X5 and reliability is crap...i would stay away unless you don't mind seeing your SA often...

[Marshotel]

I'm upgrading from a 10 year old Passat (1.8 Turbo) sedan and looking for something with more room. I do have three kids (6, 3 and 3 (twins)) but I've got a mini van for the day in day out stuff right now.

This would be my car for commuting, bikes in the back (triathlon), etc...

I would take either the oldest or the two twins, but I don't even thing a 2011 X5 could fit two dedicated car seats and a booster in the center. Of course, taking them down to the BMW dealer is in the future.

I am pretty sure the new X3 will definitely NOT be able fit three across the back seat.

But here is my question: I test drove an X5 and loved it. Wasn't planning on test driving it actually - was more interested in a pre-owned 535xi wagon. I test drove that and didn't quite fall in love like i thought i would.

Dealer said he would have more price flexibility with a 2011 x5 then the not at the dealer yet X3.

Yes, no ones really driven the X3. But an absolute stripper X5 - leatherette, no nav, etc...with more room OR a nicely equipped X3 (lets say the 260 horsepower version)...

Any thoughts?

thanks in advance.

I faced this dilemma a year ago. Originally ordered a nicely equipped 2010 X3 to replace my wife's 2007 X3. After thinking about it for a bit I decided that i wanted a larger vehicle so i cancelled my order and ordered the X5 with very few options (ipod adapter, heated seats and rear climate). Aside from the horrible stereo I am pretty happy with my decision. However, if I had to do it over I would have ordered the 35d rather than the 30. With the holiday cash, eco credit and tax break you can get a pretty good deal on the 35d right now. Take some of the savings and go for the premium stereo option:).

This may have been mentioned already but I would be hesitant to buy the new X3 until all of the bugs are waoked out.

[14me2]

I've driven the Acura MDX and the X3, both within the past week. Actually, a host of other vehicles as well.

The MDX feels like a big, very luxurious landyacht. It's not a driver's car at all, but that's OK with the demographic they're selling to. It has so many ammeneties available, and it's laid out in a nice package. That said, you feel every ounce of the car's heft as you drive it, and while it's fine for getting around, there's nothing about it that would appeal to someone who enjoys spirited driving. If you just like nice cars, though, and being swaddled in nicely engineered luxury, definitely check out the MDX.

For the car nuts out there, the X3 is a fantastic machine. The MDX really isn't comparable to the X3, at least in my book. The X3 offers a dynamic drive, very rewarding (see my reply to the post under "quick test drive" from today for a full review), and just made to appeal to a different buyer. Being an auto enthusiast, the MDX warranted no further consideration after some time behind the wheel. the xDrive35, on the other hand, has me very close to making a trip to Spartanburg to pick one up.

As for the Toureg, while pricey I found it to be nicely buttoned-down on the road. You feel its heft, but it imbues you with a sense of solidity, not just mass. It's not a driver's vehicle in the way the X3 is, but you can feel its engineering quality in every aspect of the driving experience. It was a vehicle I could see myself enjoying, though for very different reasons than the xDrive35. Only in the absence of the X3, though, could I find myself seriously contemplating one.

Next up: the Q5. It's about 100 miles from my house to the nearest Audi dealer, but the Q5 is worth a test drive. Will post my driving impression within the next few days. Meantime, the X3 is far and away the number 1 contender for my car buying dollar.

[BimmerVSR]

I went through the same analysis and opted for the X5 35d. With all the discounts, it was close to the same price. No question that 3-4 years down the road the X5 will be worth more which translates into an overall lower cost of ownership. I've had it for a couple of days now and I couldn't be happier! In a couple of years when we are ready to replace our other car, the X3 will get a loooooog look as the bugs will have been worked out and perhaps a turbo 4 diesel will be offered.

I saw the new X3 while picking up my X5. It is a very big improvement from the original with respect to space and looks. And I loved my 2004 X3.

[ShinySteelRobot]

To the OP, if you already have a cargo hauler, and you're not worried about long-term resale value, then I'd get the loaded X3. It will have all the nice touches -- bells and whistles that you may regret not having later. Additionally, it will be more nimble to drive, easier to maneuver in crowded cities, and easier to park.

[stgreen]

Yeah, like I said, I do have a minivan for the wife and three kids, and road trips, etc...

I would like to say 'when I need to take three kids in my car' but the reality is that when I take three, it would be in the minivan.

I did test drive the X5 4.8 at the urging of the dealer a week or two ago and it was great, but it is a large car for sure.
And I really liked it (of course..it had 400 horsepower). But however you slice it - even with year end discounts - the car will be $55,000 or thereabouts and i dont want a car in new england without heated seats and a weak stereo, etc...

Another factor - and some might say "F--k it!" is that im a school teacher in rural area and granted a new x3 or x5 wont make much of a difference to most people, a new x5 is bigger and i will get the comments for sure...

If its me most of the time and my bikes, etc.. then a car like the x3 is perfect.

Again, MDX - dealer just way too far for me.

Audi Q5 - seems REALLY small in the back area and dealer is a bit far

T-reg - close dealer, but just didn't love the drive and didnt love how you can't choose specific options: leather, good stereo. I would have to get into the 55's $ for the good stereo and thats just not an option. Plus dealer experience isnt the greatest in the service department.

New Ford Explorer - i'd be willing to test drive it, but i know it will not be in the same class whatsoever as the x3. not sure about the touch screen for everything as well.

I know there are many other cars/trucks to look at but i like to drive and sometimes im alone, sometimes hauling minor stuff here and there and sometimes with kids as well and it s e e m s as though the x3 could fit the bill.

but i am no real rush and might wait for MSRP to not be what dealers are asking for.

Also, ive got to test drive the car !!!

[Evlengr]

I took a tape measure with me to get real life measurements here is what I found:

http://www.bimmerfest.com/forums/showthread.php?t=500030

BTW school teacher and you can afford a BMW. Nice to know you folks are finally getting paid right for what you do :thumbup:

[UncleJ]

Evl, Out here in CA the school teachers do quite well. The school administrators do even better! The teachers have a strong union and hold our beloved progressive state legislators in thrall.:( BMW's, Benzes, Lexi, etc are not unusual in the teacher parking lots here. However, they are not unusual in the student lots either.:rofl: A teacher driving a new X5 would not be strange nor would it incite comment, other than perhaps what kind of a deal he got and from whom. He would just park next to the XJ8, CLS500 and the LS460 in the parking lot.:rofl:

[Lotus7]

stgreen's original question was:
"Stripper X5 or Nicely equipped X3? "
He obviously forgot the comma between "Stripper" and "X5"
You guys got it all wrong!

The correct answer is "Stripper" (Just be sure she's over 18) :-)