I didn't want to thread jack somebody else's thread so I hope you don't mind I start up a new one.
Anyway, name is Kiva, and I'm looking at getting a used 2010-2011 x5m. I am 23 years old and currently driving an 09' 135i and an 09' c63 amg. Spending over $1,000/mo in car payments is getting old and I am looking to move towards something more practical but still has that M/AMG prestige. Also, living in upstate NY made last winter quite interesting driving around in the 135i. Finally, I think it is ridiculous that at 23 I am spending over $1,000/mo and would like to start putting together a down payment for my next house in 10/15 years. I'm already building equity in mine but would like to eventually upgrade.
Lastly, I've had my fun. The C63 is awesome and I will for sure return to the AMG world, however, I feel as though the AMG SUV's are inferior to the x5m. And again, $1,000+/mo is stupid for now, but, once I pay this car off (if I get the x5m) I'd end up in an E63 as my play toy.
Now, to the point. Are there any glaring issues with the x5m's? I need to be more thorough with this car. For example, I bought the c63 because I loved the car for the longest time and now I am afraid to enjoy it because they have head bolt issues. Replacing a hand built engine just doesn't sound like a ton of fun to me. Furthermore, coming from the c63, things like gas mileage and such don't phase me. I'm looking more into things like the headbolts, longevity of the turbos, fuel pumps that bmw's eat through, etc.
Also, I'm open to other suggestions for cars if there is something out there you guys think is awesome and on this level that I overlooked but I'm pretty sure I've covered the bases and settled on the x5m.
Lastly, I need the space. I guess I don't need it as much as others (no wife or kids and live alone) however, I have two pitbulls that are my babies. I cringe when they jump into the c63 and the back seat is loaded with comforters so they don't mess up the leather but I still need to wipe down the entire car after a drive anyway. Also, I like to travel up to the Adirondacks and a lowered c63 doesn't really like the terrain.
Thanks for any insight, and seeing as this is a car forum I'll leave you with a couple pictures so at the very least if you opened this thread and rolled your eyes at another "Thinking of buying..." thread at least I gave you something to look at!
Thanks
My AMG:
My 1:
