i went to a BMW sponsored event yesterday morning (here in atlanta), and listened to a presentation on each of the cars above, and then spent an hour sitting in them, pushing all the knobs, etc.

bottom line:

- i *really* don't like the new e65 7-series. *really* don't. it is unattractive, and many parts of the car use junk plastic -- on the dash, on the doors, inside the trunk. i was very unimpressed. the presenter (from BMW NA in new jersey) even said, "when i saw the design specs 3 years ago, i thought that this was not good. i didn't like it. but in order to lead, you must take chances. i promise, over time, this will grow on you." that's a very interesting statement. he even commented on the unattractive rear. very much playing the party line...

- the new 4.6L X5, however, may very well be my next vehicle. wow! an SUV that comes stock with 20" wheels, goes 0-60 in 6.7s... nav, park distance control, heated seats... lots of luxury, lots of sport. i love my current e38, but this was incredible as well.

- the mini cooper (and mini cooper S) were very cool! very small and very cool. fully loaded price for the sport model is less than $20k.

by the way, i've kept quiet on the new e65 thing -- i was *really* hoping to like it. i am now confident that this vehicle release will make the e38 go up in value, as 7-series owners will be looking for late model, well maintained e38's, as opposed to going to the e65.

mark