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      06-29-2015, 07:15 AM   #1
taxjoc
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X5 50i vs. 35i (or Ford Explorer Platinum?)

I could really use some advice. I need to decide on whether to purchase a 50i or 35i. I am waiting to order a 2016. In reviewing 2016 Pricing Guide, the MSRP on a 35i is $78,270 and an identically equipped 50i is $87,445 for a difference of $9,175. Let's face it, I love the acceleration and power of the 50i, but $9K more? Not to mention worse fuel economy and I know many of you consider the V8 as prone to problems. I hate to spend the extra money and I hate to have less fuel efficiency but I don't want to later regret not purchasing the 50i.

Now, consider this, Ford is coming out with its Platinum edition soon. Yes, I know, this is a BMW forum and I will probably be booted off for even mentioning the "F" word, but give this some thought. The Ford has an MSRP of $54,340, which is almost $24,000 less money than the 35i (and the Ford's V6 has more horsepower than the 35i and comes standard with a trailer hitch!). Yes, I love the technology of the BMW (just bought my wife a 2015 Z4 which she absolutely loves) but is it worth this much more money? After the warranty runs out, I anticipate my repair bills will be substantially more than the Ford. Please let me have your thoughts. Thanks!
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      06-29-2015, 08:17 AM   #2
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Here are my opinions and thoughts..

1. 35d would be the medium ground if your looking for the low end torque punch... of course you can also tune it for the extra performance in speed.

2. 35i with tunes - M performance power kit (MPPK), Dinan, Racechip, BMS etc. are out there to help boost your power.. not as good as the 50i but enough ooomph to satisfy you and give you decent mpg.

3. The Ford explorer while maybe have the power your looking for, will never drive and feel like a BMW.

Good luck.
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      06-29-2015, 08:50 AM   #3
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You will always regret not having the 50i and I can tell you for sure its worth it
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      06-29-2015, 09:05 AM   #4
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You really can't compare an Explorer with an X5, it's just a different class of vehicle, and you know that already. If you're going to compare value, a BMW will never beat a brand like Ford, Toyota, Honda etc.

I wouldn't purchase a Ford unless it's a pickup truck. Years ago my sister purchased a Ford Taurus SHO (1996) and while it was awesome when she first got it, the car aged and fell apart so quickly... worst purchase ever. At the time it had the biggest engine (V8) and the most horsepower and she purchased it over a E36 BMW 3-series. LOL, worst purchase ever.

At the $50,000 mark I recommend the Toyota Highlander Hybrid Limited Platinum. At the $60,000 mark I recommend the 2016 redesigned Lexus RX450h. To get a similarly equipped X5 35i as those vehicles it will cost ~$80k like you said as BMW charges you an arm and a leg for every single option.

Now is it worth it to get the BMW? If you look at it from a value perspective it's always a no. BMWs are less reliable than a Toyota/Lexus. I wouldn't say BMW is more expensive to fix than a Lexus though, I had a Lexus before and the dealership gorges you just like any other dealership. Repair cost will be cheaper for a Toyota/Ford. Resale value's going to be worse for a BMW as well, so your $80k X5 will probably have the same resale value of a $60k Lexus after 10 years.

So yes, you are paying for the badge and the prestige. However, you do get a better designed exterior (personal opinion) and a more luxurious interior (I think the 2016 RX450h interior might be on par with an X5.) It kind of comes down to how much you personally desire the X5, value be damned. The Euro competitors of the X5 are the Mercedes/Range Rover/Audi/Porsche and those brands offer the same type of value as the X5.

Between the 35i/50i I got the 35i (X6) because I don't really care about engine power all that much. 1 second of difference from 0-60 doesn't matter to me. Personally I would either get the 35i or an X5M/X6M as those offer some different colors/designs. The 50i is the same as the 35i in every single way except the engine.

I think the most sensible purchase is the 2016 Lexus 450h, but if your heart desires a X5 then get it because it's so awesome to own a car that you look forward to driving everyday. I'd still choose my X6 over those other cars because I just like the design of the car better. Don't get an Explorer, please.

Last edited by Stunnaz; 06-29-2015 at 09:11 AM..
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      06-29-2015, 09:25 AM   #5
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Different people care about different things when it comes to cars.

I had 3 Range Rovers and thought they were great. Ended up switching to a sportier car, found out I still needed an suv, so I added a Grand Cherokee as a supplement. I love the grand cherokee more than I did any of the range rovers. I will admit the range rover looks better both inside and out, but I have everything the range rover had and more in the jeep.

It all depends on what you look for in a car. The X5 is going to have much higher finishes and luxury. I haven't seen the new explorers but I doubt the technology will be lacking much compared to the x5. On our Jeep the only thing the fully loaded x5 has that the jeep doesn't when it comes to tech is the HUD and night vision. But there are things the Jeep has that the BMW doesn't.

One thing I will note, is that neither the range rover or the jeep are "sport suvs". Even the range rover sport I had never felt "sporty" in any way to me. The X5 will feel much more sporty than an explorer. If you want a sporty feeling, there is no point of looking at the explorer.
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      06-29-2015, 10:44 AM   #6
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New Explorer's look great on the outside. I did not read the entire post, if leasing the Ford may be the better value right now. Especially if you like their technology packages, seating, and rear power folding (3rd row) seats. It's also larger in side I think - may be more suited to your day to day...
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      06-29-2015, 11:13 AM   #7
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If you're looking to save money, I'd much rather go with an MDX than an Explorer.
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      06-29-2015, 11:31 AM   #8
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MDX = minivan. It's boring and drives like any other Honda. I hope you like warped brakes.

I'd get a Touareg if you don't need a third row.

I've had both would never get an MDX again.
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      06-29-2015, 11:38 AM   #9
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I would buy the X5 M, some are listed in low $100k. Not the X5M... get X5 5.0 The 3.5 not enough power. The Ford should have never came up! Good luck. Once you drive an //M Car you're hooked for life!

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      06-29-2015, 12:20 PM   #10
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If you are considering Ford Explorer I think 50i is out of range for sure let along x5M! Perhaps x5D will better suit your taste with better MPG?
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      06-29-2015, 12:30 PM   #11
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Ford Who? Excuse Me Sir, Go for the BIMMER! It's ALWAYS the Bimmer that Wins! X5 has Higher Quality and is Better to Look at! Now, Engine! If you're not the kind of person who will use the 50i Full Capacity (Floor it, Speed...) then go for a 35i... Why Pay for a Big Engine that'll be used for Cruising? And if you're worried about the 35i being too slow, it isn't, And if it felt slow to you then you can always Tune it
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      06-29-2015, 09:10 PM   #12
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You simply cannot compare Ford Explorer and X5. If the $ is not an option, go 50i - you will never regret it!
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      06-30-2015, 07:42 AM   #13
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Quote:
Originally Posted by djsaad1
Different people care about different things when it comes to cars...

One thing I will note, is that neither the range rover or the jeep are "sport suvs". Even the range rover sport I had never felt "sporty" in any way to me. The X5 will feel much more sporty than an explorer. If you want a sporty feeling, there is no point of looking at the explorer.
^this. Above all else, driving feel and "fit and finish" (build quality, quality of the materials (all leather is not created equally..) are the comparisons that make one choose a BMW over a Jeep, Ford, etc. if you don't get any extra driving enjoyment from the BMW, don't enjoy the much, much better handling and driving dynamics, only then is it not worth the money. If you do, still cross shop, but get the explorer off your list and the Porsche and Audis on it..

Regarding the X5 engines, drive them both and add the 35d and decide if you want the extra power. Don't let anyone tell you you need anything more than the 35 for passing or quick maneuvers, the 35 is more than capable and still has plenty of power in an emergency and when you just want to feel some kick. It's not 50i but it's no slouch either. But if you have a need to hammer on it like a sport sedan, get the suspension upgrades and the 50i and it would be worth every penny. If you don't, stick with the 35 or 35d... We went with the 35i because it's fast enough, it's our family car, my wife's car, and I always have my car when I need more exciting performance.

Just my 2 cents.
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      06-30-2015, 09:48 AM   #14
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I still don't understand when people say the 35i is weak.. weak compared to the 50i? of course! 50i power is just ridiculous IMO and not necessary...
Weak based on a 4,700 lbs weighted SUV? I don't think so.. not based on a vehicle that can sprint from 0-60 mph in 6.1 seconds or faster.. If the acceleration was more like 7 or 8 seconds then I would maybe agree that the 35i is under-powered.
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      06-30-2015, 11:16 AM   #15
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Thanks to you all for your good, candid, responses and advice. I think puckybadger said it best: "You will always regret not having the 50i and I can tell you for sure its worth it."

I am 51 years old, the kids are out of the house and I can afford a 50i. I guess it is just time to take the plunge. Now I have to decide whether that Dynamic Handling Package option is worth the price...
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      06-30-2015, 11:51 AM   #16
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Coming from a 50i owner, I would actually downgrade to the 35i if I could go back and do it again. It simply just has the power I don't need out of a daily, not to mention horrendous gas mileage. With that being said, I think it really depends on the situation of each person. I have other "fun cars" to hoon around in, so for me having a fast SUV isn't necessarily a requirement. Is it an awesome car? Hell yes, but for me the 35i would fill in all the needs I need out of a daily driver.

I rented a previous gen explorer (2014) for a camping trip and man are those things nice. I think ford has come a long way in putting in tech and comfort in their new line of vehicles. Its got a lot more trunk space if thats what you need. The explorer also feels much bigger than the X5. The ford really does feel more like a "truck" where as the BMW feels more like a car. If you are looking for something in the $55k range, the explorer would be one of my top choices, or a fully loaded Grand Cherokee Overland/Summit trim. If your wallet allows it, Go for one of the X5's. You simply won't regret the driving dynamics and fun out of driving a bmw.
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      06-30-2015, 01:05 PM   #17
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have you driven both the 35 and 50? All of this stuff is subjective but i was underwhelmed with the power of the 50. Yes, its faster than the 35 but i didn't think enough to justify any of the price, fuel efficiency or (potentially) reliability trade offs. All depends on what your priorities are.
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      06-30-2015, 01:30 PM   #18
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Quote:
Originally Posted by Stuey View Post
have you driven both the 35 and 50? All of this stuff is subjective but i was underwhelmed with the power of the 50. Yes, its faster than the 35 but i didn't think enough to justify any of the price, fuel efficiency or (potentially) reliability trade offs. All depends on what your priorities are.
I don't understand people complaining MPG on the X5, unless you go Diesel you get maybe 2 more mpg out of 35 vs 50. If i go back and do it again I still prefer 50i v8 for such a heavy car. Once again it comes down to budget, 50i will make you happier any day.

Reliability trade off is funny to me. You are buying a BMW, you are better off buying extended warranty anyway when owning the car regardless engine choice.

I am glad you've made up your mind. Welcome to the family soon! 
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      06-30-2015, 01:40 PM   #19
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Quote:
Originally Posted by taxjoc
Now I have to decide whether that Dynamic Handling Package option is worth the price...
Yes, it is. I skipped it and it is my #1 regret. If you WANT what the 50i has to offer, you NEED what the DHP has.

And may I say, kudos to having the kids out of the house so early in your life lol. So much time to be "young again."
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      06-30-2015, 05:57 PM   #20
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Quote:
Originally Posted by cy07 View Post
I don't understand people complaining MPG on the X5, unless you go Diesel you get maybe 2 more mpg out of 35 vs 50. If i go back and do it again I still prefer 50i v8 for such a heavy car. Once again it comes down to budget, 50i will make you happier any day.
This. MPG is a result of the car's size/mass more than engine choice. I would prob do worse with a 35i trying to accelerate like my other cars, whereas the 50i is more effortless. Not going to say you should go with one or the other, they each have their merit since you obviously pay a premium for V8 power, but MPG should be tossed out as a variable...closer to parity in the real world.
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      07-01-2015, 02:51 AM   #21
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Judging by the number of times MPG was mentioned, the x35d is the sweet spot for you.

I agree ~10k for 1 sec better acceleration is steep for literally the same car, but some find it worth it, but you probably don't...
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      07-02-2015, 03:50 PM   #22
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Quote:
Originally Posted by taxjoc View Post
Thanks to you all for your good, candid, responses and advice. I think puckybadger said it best: "You will always regret not having the 50i and I can tell you for sure its worth it."

I am 51 years old, the kids are out of the house and I can afford a 50i. I guess it is just time to take the plunge. Now I have to decide whether that Dynamic Handling Package option is worth the price...
35 or 50i .... just make sure you never go with the base suspension either the DHP or the Comfort one. Best of luck.

Me and my brother purchased our X5s at same time .. mine was ordered with the comfort suspension and my Brother's with the base ... big difference
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