Hi everyone! I'm new to these boards as I've just recently got (leased ) a new X5 a week ago...3.0 auto, black/black, premium, climate, and acitvity package. My previous car was a '99 Lexus RX300 (which my mom now drives) which was a great car also...good accel, very good ride, great seats and had great gas mileage for a SUV (20-23 city). I got the X5 because I wanted a more sporty ride/handling which I missed from my '97 540i (before the Lexus--and the kids). Anyways, my question is...my current mileage is a little over 14 mpg (70% highway/30% city driving)..that seems a little low for a six-cylinder engine..will that improve over time? Also, how does the standard tires perform during the winter...is it necessary to get snow tires? (I had to for my Lexus--standard tires had very poor snow traction). Also, does the upgraded radio sound dramatically better than the standard one?---I could not hear a big difference at the dealer. One comment--a six-CD changer would have been nice as standard equipment, esp. for a $47+ car. (Also a little more torque from the engine would have been nice too---say about 230-250?) Thanks for any advice/help.