[Introextro]

Hi,

I am looking to purchase an SUV as a second car for a couple of years. I have a very limited budget ~20K. I was wondering what makes more sense for me just based on the driving experience. Let me explain- I already have an M6 Gran Coupe and while the car is fantastic it does feel heavier than say a Honda Civic. Even if it will leave the Honda for dead, the Honda will feel more "nimble" and quicker to react to acceleration ( the first few milliseconds) or steering. Is the difference between the X5 and X3 the same? Does the X3 feel like a light sedan compared to the X5? How much is this difference. i would prefer the X5 otherwise. My choices are a 2014 X3 35i ~50K miles / a 2012 X5 50i ~60K miles and also a 2011 X5M ~60K miles.

Appreciate your inputs

[McNuggetz]

Why don't you just take them for a drive? Seems to be the most logical choice as it will be you driving it and will get a feel for the vehicles.

[Bowtiefanatc]

The X5M is gonna be a ballbuster with over 500hp. I almost bought one (2012) but didn't want the costly repairs. I wouldn't go with the 35i X5 if you're wanting a more spirited ride. The extra weight seemed to bog it down a bit on my test drives.

I drove a 2011 and on the test drive it blew engine oil seals (oil spewing out of the tail pipes).

I was on a quest to get an X5 and the universe brought me my X3 and I couldn't be happier.

[e30lover318i]

DO NOT get the V8 all I’ve hear is bad things even from service advisors, And apparently issues with early rod bearing failure.. also the e70 chassis your looking into has a more dated looking cluster/interior. The F25 looks and feels a lot more modern, I looked into e70 and F15 and I felt like the F25 was just the right size but if you have a big family you might want the x5 I’d personally get an F15 they did a great job visually on that chassis.

[Introextro]

Thank you guys, really helpful tips!