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Drove the new BMW X5 4.8is in Space Grey today at my local BMW dealer.

Its a very good looking SAV. And it drives like you wouldnt believe with the Sport package. There is absolutely no lean or roll whatsoever in the corners, just like a 5-series Sport. And it feels very fast. All in all, an exellent new model.

But I was shoked to see the sticker!!!!! SHOCKED !!!! It had almost 20 grand in options (or in other words, a NEW Mini Cooper) and it wasnt fully loaded?!?!?

I realize that expensive cars are getting even more expensive technology, but how far can this go?

And it also amazes me that the Logic 7 HiFi Radio is standard on the 335i yet optional on the X5. Ditto leather, Sunroof, Nav etc. This stuff should all be standard. And because its not, the price swells ridiculously.

Now a reasonably equipped 6-cylinder model runs about the same as a fully loaded V8 from the last generation.

Dont get me wrong, I Love BMW's, I drive a 330i ZHP and plan on getting a 335i soon, but it looks like their cars are getting so expensive, I might have to rob a bank to make that happen.

Take a look at the new X5 option sheet on a V8 model

Starts $54,500

Sport Package $3,600
Technology Package $2,600
Premium Package $2,550
Active Ventilated Seat Package $2,100
On-board Navigation System info $1,900
Rear Seat Entertainment $1,800
Premium Sound Package $1,800
Panoramic Moonroof $1,350
Active Steering info $1,250
Multi-Contour Seats $1,200
3rd Row Seat $1,200
Head-Up Display $1,000
Comfort Access $1,000
Napa Leather $1,000
20" Y-Spoke Wheels $950
Rear Climate Package $900
Cold Weather Package $900
BMW Assist w/Bluetooth $750
Park Distance Control $700
Sirius Satellite Radio $595
High Definition Radio $500
Automatic Tailgate $500
Heated Front Seats $500
Heated Rear Seats $350
Running Boards $300


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