After owning several different high end auto brands, like just recently a Benz, I wanted to try something different so I took the plunge and got a 2002 X5 which I pick up tomorrow. All in all, this board has been helpful both positively and negatively, in my assistance to acquire more info regarding my new vehicle. I do have to get one thing off of my chest that I intend to put into letter format to BMWUSA...

My disappointment is in my absolute outrage with my experience in shopping for my new X5.

Firstly...

I am on my third bmw and 2nd x5. Most of my complaints are with bmw-usa and not the dealer as much. I have had numerous problems with the first x5 which is more the fault of poor quality control from bmw, and not the dealer. I agree that many of the options should be standard. In the sedans split-rear seats should be. On the x5's the auto dim mirror, heated seats, cd changer, lamp washers, I think should be standard. It would cost bmw about $15 per vehicle to include a first aid kit, warning triangle, and flashlight. I personally also feel safety is important and the rear side airbags and xenon headlamps should be included. But if we can buy these cars, we do so because of their handling, and deal with the rest of this stuff.