Need some help with SUV's
 

Hey guys,

Currently I am debating between the ML350 or the X5 3.0 as an SUV just because our family travels so often we need a bigger car to carry the luggages. I'm not interested in power, hence why I am not planning to purchase the ML500 or the X5 4.8.

Which one do you guys recommend? I want an SUV that will give me the least (I am saying this lightly as they are German cars) amount of problems, and is really the better buy for the money.

Originally, we were looking for an RX350/400h, and yes I do know that they are in a different class, but these are the only SUV's we are considering. The reason we are deterred is because of the model update soon, and I really don't want to pay for a car that will most likely be much improved in the predecessor. Or should I wait?

Thanks guys. :)

My parents have got an ML320CDI (Turbo Diesel.), while the engine & tranny is good, the optional stuffs are very expensive (I'm thinking the Beemer will be about the same.) & the interior just doesn't feel enough like a Merc.

I'd say, go with the X5, as it is a newer offering & is sportier from what I've heard. Does BMW offer the X5 3.0d in the U.S.?

I'm in Vancouver, BC, Canada, and I don't think they offer the diesel here, but I might be wrong.

Go with the X5 we build them in S.C

Actually, I would get the ML350. The 3.0 model (if you said 4.4 or a 4.8, then I might think differently), is a lag monster when fully loaded. One of my neighbors has a 3.0 and another one has an ML350, but I hear more colorful euphemisms coming out of the X5 owner on problems than I do out of the ML350 owner, though the ML owner told me has had a string of issues with the AC.

Audi Q7 3.2

the new ML350 ismuch much better than the older Gen, I am an insurance agent and I haven't heard any negative comments from my Clients who have ML350s..

Have you considered Acura MDX at all? I thik it's a great SUV, much better than ML, X5 and RX.

X5 3.0si definately. Merc's (and VWs) have the worst German reliability. Combined with the sport package, the X5 handles amazingly.

If you can wait, a X5 3.0d will be out by the end of this calendar year.

BMW x5 hands down. Nothing drive like an X5. Try driving a Benz ML350/550, Rx350 in this manner below.


http://youtube.com/watch?v=vYjbxX85Trc

Between the ML and the X5, I'd clearly go with the X5. Much better steering and chassis, better overall reliability although still worse than average reliability (the Mercedes has real problems here), and overall driving enjoyment.

You seem to want a premuim German SUV, though, and the Audi Q7 is a viable third choice. It has great interior fit and finish, a good chassis, semi-sports-car handling for an SUV, and superlative brakes, but doesn't have the steering feel of the BMW, and has a version (MMI) the BMW's annoying I-Drive.

I have formally reviewed the X5 and the Q7 if it will help you any.

https://www.clublexus.com/forums/sho...ew+2007+bmw+x5

https://www.clublexus.com/forums/sho...w+2007+audi+q7

We don't have any problems with our W164 so far *touch wood*, depends on luck I guess.

I have considered it, but in my area, I have found through many BMW/Mercedes dealers have treated their customers much better than Acura dealers.

Also, I think the X5 and the ML look fantastic.

We don't have this in diesel

..............and I'd get the X5

when my mum was looking @ a new suv i drove both ... and if you're going to be driving it at all the bimmer is just so much better

also, image in van of having the ML is that you bought the name, not the vehicle

(guess the above and below point are both for if u care how it looks)

dont get the acura, in van you'll be seen as driving a honda and treated like you're driving a honda (even at the acura dealerships, my friends family has acuras and i went to the dealership once when he dropped of his car for service ... nu-uh, none of that)

but i'd say go drive both for yourself ... theres a bimmer and benz dealership on boundary around 1st, down the street from each other (highly conveniant)