[ENCBimmer]

Good morning - this is my first post, so please forgive any missteps...

I currently own a '15 550i, love it. I have maintained it well, it's treated me well. Second child is on the way, and would like a bit more space. I've been looking at an '18 X3 M40. There aren't any models close by where I live to drive it myself (so ideally I wouldn't want to dedicate a day to it unless I am at least leaning towards purchasing).

For those of you that have owned/driven the 550i, am I going to be underwhelmed by the M40, or will it strike a fair compromise between the performance/fun I am used to, and the extra space?

Any other tips are of course welcome.

[chicagofan00]

I haven't driven a 550i so I can't comment on that aspect but I would recommend making looking for a 2019 or later model. The 2018's seemed to have a few more inherent issues to them than 2019 and later. Probably because of being the first model year of the G01 generation. Another thing to be looking out for is to not get the ventilated seats as many have commented on how uncomfortable they are.

[DiamondLights]

Again cant comment as never driven 550i (sorry if that doesn't help) but the M40i is a fantastic drive.

We have a second child en route in Nov hence needing more space and originally going X5, but went for X3 M40i and chuffed with the decision.

Good space, but a fantastic drive. 0-60 in 4.8secs she flies, no regrets at all and enough space for No2 when they arrive.

[ramparts]

There's more space in the G30 5 series than the X3 !

There will be a bit of a torque drop from the V8 in the 550i, and it won't sound the same

[Alias1431]

Leg room is not going to be a selling point. It's not bad at all, but don't think that because it's an "SAV," it's going to be cavernous. With a higher floor, it's much easier to put a child in/out, and you'll have more space for hauling with the seats down. The X5 will feel a lot bigger, but you'll notice in the specs you only get like another inch or two of leg room. Either way, it's not going to be good for the person in front of a rear facing child's seat. If they are not rear-facing, I think you'll be satisfied either way. Go take it for a test drive!

[sbt007]

Originally Posted by davidoff86

There's more space in the G30 5 series than the X3 !

There will be a bit of a torque drop from the V8 in the 550i, and it won't sound the same

I don't agree with that. The trunk space is way more in the X3 and this is important for a family vehicle. Rear seat room is probably around the same. The quality of seats should be better on the 5 series.

[ENCBimmer]

Thank you guys for your input. I took the first poster's advice about watching out for the 18s, and waiting for a well priced 19 example. The dealer offered garbage on the 15 550i claiming "no one wants rear wheel drive anymore." smh

[Yellowmattei]

I would say also, having come from a 535xi with M Sport, and having gone to a 2020 X3 M40i, this car is quite a bit faster, and more sporty than my 5 series. I had the 6 cylinder engine obviously, but the 5er was more of a highway cruiser, and felt much less tossable than the X3 does. 0-60 comes up in 4.4, which is probably about the same as your V8 managed, but with 6 cylinder mileage.

Good luck with your family, and your purchase!

[Fast400]

Soooo....I went from an F10 M5 to the X4 m40i....the X4 is fun....I miss my M5 too though. Does that help?

Gas mileage is much better in the x4...

[Torinalth]

The 40i is fun, but i wish it was more comfortable.... and when I test drove the 540 it was much nicer drive. Honestly, could you consider a x5? the x3 is a riot, but its bordering on being a bit small for car seats and with the lack of comfort i'm not too thrilled with it as a family car. I'm pot committed at this point, but i'd consider sticking with a 5 series or x5

[Alias1431]

Originally Posted by ENCBimmer

The dealer offered garbage on the 15 550i claiming "no one wants rear wheel drive anymore." smh

Tell them they're being a clown.