X3 35d MSport - better than an E Class?

[PinkFatBunny]

Wife's E Class is going back in May so got the default choice of the new E Class estate (all wheel drive, 200bhp, great spec, safe bet)
Left field choice, turns out BMW are discounting the 335d engines in the 3,4 and X3. So could get a 320bhp family wagon for same price, albeit not as well spec'd as BMW are tight.

The X3 will be more fun to drive ....but day-to-day what are they like? Any known issues or complaints?

My other car is an M4 so I'm familiar with BMW and like the service I receive from my local dealer.

My spec would be:
Pro Nav
Harmon Kardon
Pan Roof
360 Camera
Dog guard
thinking of not getting the MSport Plus and deselecting the MSport suspension to get the softer ride!

[PinkFatBunny]

I want all wheel drive. But not too bothered is if its estate or SUV format, just want space for bike and dog. Although the ride height of the X3 appeals.
BMW 5 touring XDrive arrives too late so thats off the table. Merc GLE we don't like. Land Rover Disco Sport and FType are £££ once you've spec'd them.

I'm not after a 'proper' 4x4 or I'd get a Range Rover. I just need it to cope with snow, steep valley roads and the occasional muddy field.

[PinkFatBunny]

Yes I was planning on keeping the 19s rather than opting the 20s. Especially as they are run flats too. I like that fact that there aren't too many X3 35d's about, as you say the roads are awash with the SQ5's

[PinkFatBunny]

That was one of my concerns about the e class being new tech. But its the wife's car and she's not into all that stuff, and I'd prefer a more entertaining car to drive rather than a wifi hotspot.

Plus you could spend all the time waiting for the new models, need a good car now. .....although I'm waiting for the new M5 which I think might be 2018 now 😢

Thanks for all the info though.

[PinkFatBunny]

Took one out last night and then ordered one.
It makes it a lot more interesting having a decent engine in what would be otherwise just another mini SUV. Adds a nice bit of character.
Counting down to May now for the delivery.

cheers for all the feedback and info.

[PinkFatBunny]

mls678 said:

Interested in one of these as the wife wants one with baby on the way.

Can anyone share details of the sort of finance deal they achieved if so?

Thanks

BMW are giving these away! X335d MSport for £499/month and no deposit!
try getting the bigger engined Disco Sport and F-Pace for that money.

...ok BMW are tight with options, so you may want to spend more to get pan roof for the kids etc. Ballpark every £1k of extras will add £25/per month, or just pay it upfront as deposit. i'll happy give you details the sales guy I use. Pretty sure he owes me the pool M2 for a weekend anyway :-)

[PinkFatBunny]

Output Flange said:

You mention bike and dog. Part of the reason I have an E Class over a 4x4 is my dog wouldn't be able to get herself into the boot of a 4x4.

And talking of boots, the E Class boot is miles bigger than the X3.

Just a couple of practical considerations for you.

Yes our current EClass will take my bike, all my tri gear, plus the dog, plus the baby and all her stuff. Going to have to take both wheels off this season to get the bike in I think.

[PinkFatBunny]

Lozw86 said:

I have just picked up a 2017 f25 x3 3.0d with the m sport plus pack and 20" wheels. It has m sport suspension deleted and the ride is very good in my opinion. The 20" wheels look great too. I would recommend the panoramic sun roof, it makes the cabin very light and airy. Very pleased with the car so far.

I ended up doing the same as you and deleting the MSport suspension, so thats good to hear you are pleased with it.
Going to use the X3 as a test bed to see if I replace my M4 with an M5 or maybe some SUV thing, RRS/X5M etc.