[IbanezGod]

Looking to buy the wifey a BMW and we're looking at the 328x, 335x, and X5. Price range I'm trying to stay in is $30-45K.

There are a lot of 2011 328s available with very low mileage for around $30k, when I move up to the X5 we end up looking at the 3.0-4.8L from 09-10 with around 30-40k on the clock. Prices range $39-45k for the X5.

I really know little about the 3.0 and 4.8 engines and X5s in general, no clue if they are problematic. Curious if anyone has one and if you had to recommend any of the above what would you choose.

I personally would like her to have a Xdrive vehicle. We have a 2000 Cherokee that can get us through snow, but for safety I'm thinking a bigger X5 is good. She doesn't drive a lot so i'm also worried that the X5 would be a waste.... that's what get me thinking that a 328 would be enough and save us $15k. We plan on keeping this car for a while and probably when we decide to have kids within the next 2-3 years.

Any insight appreciated! Thanks in advance

[smmmurf]

335xi

turbo + awd = snow eater

older x5 are inferior to modern turbo x5's and competitive suv's, slower and less efficient

for dry only use, rwd 3er

if 2011+ x5 turbo 3.0 is an option get that...

[IbanezGod]

Originally Posted by smmmurf

335xi

turbo + awd = snow eater

older x5 are inferior to modern turbo x5's and competitive suv's, slower and less efficient

for dry only use, rwd 3er

if 2011+ x5 turbo 3.0 is an option get that...

when you say older X5's you're referring to anything prior to the N54 engine correct? I thought they switched to the 3.5 for 2011 and 2010 X5s have the 3.0L single turbo, no clue on how good the 3.0L turbo is. have to do some additional research.

[BenTrovato]

If she doesn't drive much I think the 328x would be perfect. Kids, shopping, etc. Ultimately whatever she feels more comfortable in would be the best move.

[IbanezGod]

thanks, yeah we are leaning toward that, however I love the X5s!!!!

[emglie]

Maybe the X5, since you're planning to have kids and stuff in the future, it might be better to have that!

[kevinbahnz]

I think I'd go with X5. no point in having 2 3 series with a growing family. I mean I would love to have a his and hers 335 but that's not practical.

[Endless619]

I would go 3.0 X5 and don't look back. I love mine.

[ScaredOnce]

X5... family size.

[MisterSkiMask]

X5, we got rid of a 335 and got an x5 when we had a kid, you will be amazed at how much shit you haul around, and all of it is huge. It can be done in a 3 series, but it is more of a pain.