Ok this is a getting a tad off-topic. Yes, the X-series (esp. the more nimble X3) nearly equals the driving dynamics of the sedans and wagons from BMW, and they surpass the dynamics of many other cars. My friend who drives a chipped VW Golf, said the grip on my X3 was "unbelievable" and the chassis was just so fluid and balanced. I agree too.........you can really just push these light-trucks to levels you never thought possible. I did a magical powerslide in the X3 for a 90-degree intersection right turn at 50mph and got it right on the first try. Try that in a Ford Escape and you'd roll over.

However, there's no defying physics. You do feel the extra weight and slightly higher centre of gravity when you're pushing really hard. It's not as tossable as say, a 325i sedan. With the 325i, I just flipped the steering wheel, chucked it into the corner, got the rear end out and brought it back in line easily. In the X3, because the grip levels are so high, you need to get it just right or else you risk crashing a 4200lb vehicle.

I like the 328iT sports wagon better than the X3. However, X3 isn't really a "compromise", rather a slightly taller vehicle for those who need to carry tall objects.

 

As for potential reliability issues, who cares, it's a lease! You get to give the car back in 24 or 36 months, so I wouldn't worry about it too much.

Personally, I don't care for the 'stigma' of driving a BMW, so a much as I like how the cars drive, I would not be seen driving one.

 

If you live in Charlotte, that's got to be a pretty long commute each day...at least 60-70 miles one-way along I-85.

 

Since you are in the Carolinas Shawnmack, I would do the delivery of the 335 at the BMW Performance Center in Spartenburg SC. While you are there, take advantage of the BMW Performance Driving School.. You will learn to be a better driver and have an opportunity to drive a 335 (not your own) on the track there. You can step it up a notch, and drive the M cars.

 

i want a 335i convertible, so nice.

 

How do the 335i compare to an E46 M3??

 

I've not driven the E46 M3 but have driven the 335i. Most people I know of who have driven both have said the 335i's powerband is far more usable, and moves the car just about as well at WOT, and that the handling of the 335i (especially with the sport package) is nearly as capable, while being quite a bit better mannered on the road.

And if you're into modding at all the 335i is a much better platform to start from, being FI, and all...

 

The 335i is more subdued and the ride is much more refined. The E46 M3 is constantly egging you on to push it harder and harder. High revving vehicles tend to do that to you. The harder you push the E46 M3, the more fun it is.

 

As opposed to the same stigma others see in driving a Toyota/Lexus?

It goes both ways...

 

Ahhh but Gene, you have stated many times the "stigma" of driving a Vette.

We both know the BMW stigma is not vettelike but the word that rhymes with brick comes to mind to many people.

 

I have?

I will say that the demographic of the 'vette driver in these parts trends to the +50yr olds. That and the late 20's, early 30's Caucasian male.

 

I'm not looking to debate (I can find the posts later). What I am stating is every car has "stigmas" and we can't get mad at stereotypes we might face by the cars we drive.
Lets be real here. Many times we have heard/read
Benz-yuppie
BMW-rhymes with brick
Lexus-old geezer
Acura-cheapskate

etc etc....

People will percieve brands a certain way. Bob is entitled to feel he would not be caught dead in a BMW.

 

And I'm not entitled to post my opinion?

It needs to be a two way street

 

Bob never said it didn't. All he said was " Personally, I don't care for the 'stigma' of driving a BMW, so a much as I like how the cars drive, I would not be seen driving one.".

That is his opinion. Clearly you own a BMW and said "As opposed to the same stigma others see in driving a Toyota/Lexus".

He owns a Lexus. Clearly he is happy with whatever stigma the car has.

 

Don't forget Cadillac and Buick!